How to study at Harvard for Free
A Guide to Need Blind Aid
Harvard University is one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, with an acceptance rate of just under 4%. Becoming a student at this Ivy League college is a challenge, yet financing your education at Harvard shouldn’t be. Harvard, like many other elite institutions, is committed to making its education accessible to students, regardless of their financial circumstances. To do so, Harvard implements a ‘need blind’ financial aid system.
A need blind financial aid system guarantees applicants that the university does not consider their need for financial aid when evaluating their application. In short, the university will not reject an applicant based on how much aid they would need to attend the university. The university also meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, ensuring that affordability is not a barrier to attendance. Remarkably, over 55% of students receive some form of aid, with many paying significantly less than the full tuition price.
One of the most appealing aspects of Harvard’s financial aid policy is that families earning less than $85,000 per year are not expected to contribute to tuition at all. This means that if you are a great student from the Balkans or any other region where American education has a completely unattainable price tag, you do not have to give up on your dreams of attending an Ivy League.
Applying to financial Aid
The process of applying to financial aid is straightforward and the same for most universities including Harvard. Key steps of the process include:
- Submitting the CSS Profile – The College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile is used to assess your family’s financial need. Harvard’s financial aid office requires this form, which can be completed online through the College Board website. Be prepared to provide detailed financial information, including income, assets, and expenses.
- Submitting the FAFSA (if applicable) – If you are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, you must also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This determines your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
- Provide Tax and Income Documentation – Harvard requires applicants to submit tax returns and other supporting financial documents. Typically, this includes both student and parental tax returns from the previous year.
Harvard’s financial aid is available to all students, including international applicants. Unlike many U.S. universities, Harvard does not differentiate between domestic and international students when determining financial aid eligibility and admitted international students can receive full-need financial aid just like their U.S. counterparts.
So, if you are considering applying to Harvard but are concerned about the cost, rest assured. Remember, the university’s commitment to affordability ensures that no admitted student has to decline their offer due to financial constraints.
