Harvard University has announced a major expansion of its financial aid program, making college more accessible to students from middle-income families. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, Harvard College will be completely free for students from families earning $100,000 or less per year. Additionally, students from families making up to $200,000 annually will receive free tuition, with additional financial aid available to cover other expenses.
Harvard President Alan M. Garber emphasized that this initiative will enhance diversity by bringing together students from a wide range of backgrounds. “Expanding financial aid ensures that more students have the opportunity to learn from one another, enriching the entire Harvard community,” Garber said.
With this change, about 86% of U.S. families will qualify for some form of Harvard’s financial aid, reinforcing the university’s commitment to making education accessible to talented students regardless of their financial circumstances.
Hopi Hoekstra, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, stated that Harvard has always aimed to admit the most promising students, regardless of income. “This investment in financial aid ensures that every admitted student can attend Harvard and make a meaningful impact in the future,” Hoekstra said.
What the Financial Aid Expansion Includes
For students from families earning $100,000 or less, Harvard will cover all major costs, including tuition, housing, food, health insurance, and travel. Additionally, these students will receive a $2,000 start-up grant in their first year and another $2,000 grant in their junior year to help with their transition after graduation.
Students from families earning up to $200,000 will receive free tuition, along with additional aid to cover other expenses based on individual financial circumstances. Even students from families earning above this threshold may still qualify for aid, depending on their specific financial needs.
A Longstanding Commitment to Affordable Education
Harvard has been expanding its financial aid programs for over two decades. The Harvard Financial Aid Initiative, launched in 2004, initially provided full coverage for students from families earning $40,000 or less. Over the years, this threshold has gradually increased to $85,000 in 2023 before reaching $100,000 in 2025.
Since 2007, Harvard has also eliminated student loans, offering all financial aid in the form of grants. The university has awarded over $3.6 billion in undergraduate financial aid since the initiative began, with a projected budget of $275 million for the 2025-26 academic year.
Currently, 55% of Harvard undergraduates receive financial aid, with families paying an average of $15,700 for the 2023-24 academic year.
Harvard’s Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, William R. Fitzsimmons, highlighted the importance of financial aid in attracting a diverse student body. “The most talented students come from all walks of life, and our financial aid ensures they know that Harvard is a place where they belong,” he said.
With this expansion, Harvard continues to break financial barriers, ensuring that students can focus on academics and personal growth without the burden of overwhelming costs.
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