Harvard Makes Tuition Free for Most Families
Harvard University is breaking down financial barriers by making tuition free for families earning under $200,000 annually, starting with the 2025-2026 school year. This move aims to increase accessibility to one of the most prestigious institutions in the world.
Tuition-Free for Middle and Lower-Income Families
Harvard’s new financial aid policy means that:
- Families earning under $200,000 will have free tuition.
- Families making under $100,000 will receive full coverage of all costs, including tuition, housing, food, health insurance, and travel.
Harvard President Alan M. Garber emphasized the importance of widening the university’s reach:
“By bringing people of outstanding promise together to learn with and from one another, we truly realize the tremendous potential of the University.”
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Financial Aid Expansion and Impact
This initiative builds on Harvard’s long-standing commitment to affordability. In 2007, the university replaced loans with grants, ensuring students graduate debt-free. Currently, 55% of undergraduates receive financial aid, with families paying an average of $15,700 annually.
With the new plan, 86% of U.S. families will qualify for financial aid, making a Harvard education more accessible to a broader range of students.
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The Cost of Attending Harvard
Without financial aid, Harvard’s tuition alone costs $56,650 per year. When additional expenses such as housing, meals, and other fees are factored in, the total cost rises to $82,866. This new policy dramatically reduces the financial burden for most families.
Harvard’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
By eliminating financial barriers, Harvard hopes to attract a diverse pool of talent and foster a richer learning environment. Increasing access to education for talented students from all economic backgrounds strengthens the university’s mission and prepares future leaders.
