Free Tuition at Harvard for Students from Families Earning Below 0K

Harvard University Expands Financial Aid Program for Middle-Income Families

Washington, D.C. — In a significant move toward increasing accessibility for higher education, Harvard University has announced an expansion of its financial aid initiative, designed to support students from families earning up to 0,000 annually. Effective for the 2025-2026 academic year, the new plan aims to make Harvard's renowned education more attainable for a broader spectrum of students, particularly those from middle-income households.

The university’s latest initiative will not only cover full tuition costs for qualifying students but also extend financial support to encompass essential living expenses. For families with an income of 0,000 or below, the aid package will address all billed expenses, including tuition, food, housing, health insurance, and travel costs. Additionally, qualifying students will receive a ,000 “start-up grant” in their first year, along with a “launch grant” of the same amount in their junior year.

Harvard’s President, Alan M. Garber, emphasized the broader implications of this initiative, stating, “Putting Harvard within financial reach for more individuals widens the array of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that all of our students encounter, fostering their intellectual and personal growth.” This commitment reflects the university’s goal of nurturing a diverse learning environment that enriches the educational experience for all students.

The expansion means that approximately 86% of U.S. families will qualify for some level of financial aid. As detailed in the announcement, even families earning between 0,000 and 0,000 will benefit from tuition-free education and are encouraged to apply for additional aid based on their circumstances. Families with incomes above 0,000 might also be eligible for support, highlighting Harvard’s commitment to evaluating individual situations when determining financial aid.

Currently, about 55% of Harvard undergraduates receive financial assistance, with these students averaging an out-of-pocket expense of ,700 for the 2023-2024 academic year. The total cost for attending Harvard—including tuition, housing, and additional student services—averages approximately ,866 annually.

Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid, William R. Fitzsimmons, noted the importance of socioeconomic diversity in the student body. He remarked, “We know the most talented students come from different socioeconomic backgrounds and experiences, from every state and around the globe. Our financial aid is critical to ensuring that these students know Harvard College is a place where they can be part of a vibrant learning community strengthened by their presence and participation.”

This announcement marks the latest in a series of expansions to Harvard’s financial aid program, which has adjusted its income thresholds four times over the last two decades to enhance accessibility. The university’s Financial Aid Institute, established in 2004, continues to play a pivotal role in this effort, having allocated more than .6 billion in undergraduate financial aid since its inception, with a projected budget of 5 million for the upcoming academic year.

Through these initiatives, Harvard is reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that talented individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can access a world-class education, thus promoting a richer dialogue and collaboration within its academic community.