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Harvard Expands Free Tuition to Families Earning Up to $200K
Harvard Expands Free Tuition to Families Earning Up to $200K

This move comes as the cost of college tuition and living expenses continues to climb, putting pressure on middle-class families across the U.S.

Financial planners recommend middle-income families apply even if unsure of eligibility. “Harvard’s aid can cover more than just tuition — travel, books, and insurance can be significant savings for families,” said financial consultant Brian Jacobs.

What’s Changing?

Until now, Harvard fully covered tuition only for students from families earning under $85,000 per year. Under the new policy:

→ Families earning up to $200,000 will now qualify for free tuition.

→ Students from households earning $100,000 or less will have all costs covered — including tuition, room, board, health insurance, and travel.

→ Eligible students will also receive two grants of $2,000: one as a "start-up" grant in their first year and another as a "launch" grant during their junior year.

“This expansion reflects Harvard’s commitment to attracting the most talented students from every financial background,” said Harvard President Alan M. Garber.

Why It Matters

Harvard's decision means roughly 86% of American households could now qualify for some form of financial aid from the university, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The university’s tuition, room, and board costs have surpassed $82,000 annually. The new policy is expected to relieve the burden on families who earn too much to qualify for federal Pell Grants but still struggle to pay out-of-pocket.

Harvard’s Endowment Makes It Possible

Harvard's $50 billion endowment gives it the financial power to offer this expanded aid. However, this comes amid concerns about declining donations and looming federal cuts after recent controversies.

Despite these challenges, Harvard is signaling its long-term commitment to affordability and access.

How Harvard Compares to Peer Institutions

Harvard now joins a group of elite universities offering similar aid:

How Harvard Compares to Peer Institutions
How Harvard Compares to Peer Institutions

By raising its income threshold, Harvard is keeping pace with other top-tier schools competing to attract a diverse student body.

A Response to the Post-Affirmative Action Landscape

The policy shift also comes less than two years after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions policies. Many experts see financial aid expansion as a tool to promote socioeconomic diversity at elite schools.

“By removing financial barriers, Harvard is broadening access in ways that will still support diversity, despite legal limits on race-based admissions,” said education policy analyst Rachel Norton.

What Students Need to Know

If you're a prospective applicant or current student, here’s what you should do:

• Review Harvard’s Financial Aid Guidelines: Visit Harvard Financial Aid Office for full details.

• Submit the Required Forms: Applicants must complete the FAFSA and the CSS Profile to be considered for aid.

• Contact the Financial Aid Office: For personalized advice, call Harvard's Financial Aid Office at (617) 495-1581 or email faoweb@fas.harvard.edu.

Key Deadlines:

• Early Action applicants: Nov. 1

• Regular Decision applicants: Jan. 1

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