In the field of literature and education many significant changes had taken place during Harsha's reign. Education had made a remarkable progress during this period. Educational centers were also opened along with the Buddhist monasteries and other religious centers. Most of these centers were situated in Kannauj, Monghyr, Manikpur, Gaya etc. Nalanda University had reached the zenith of its glory and significance in Harsha's period. Besides, religion, other subjects such as philosophy, medical science etc. were also taught. The educational system was to a great extent has on arguments and debates. The standards of the students of Nalanda were very high.

The number of student coming from foreign countries to study at Nalanda included considerably larger number of Chinese students. About hundred Chinese travelers came to receive education at Nalanda.

Besides Nalanda, Ujjain was another important centre of education where especially astrology and mathematics were taught. Taxila was also an important centre of education. Besides these universities, education was imparted in many other centers.

King Harsha was himself a great poet and dramatist; the three dramas 'Priyadarshika,' 'Ratnavali' are attributed to him.

The famous literary works, 'Harshacharit' and 'Kadambari' were written by Bana during Harsha's period. Great power Bharavi and the famous scholar Shilabhadra were also there during his reign. Achraya jayasena was also in the court of Harsha.

Thus there had been a great progress in the field of literature and education during Harsha's period, and it is due to this that this period occupies an important position in the history of India. It is on account of this feature that this age has been praised by different scholars. Hiuen Tsang was astonished and very much impressed to see the progress of education and literature in those days.