Harvard University announced on March 18, 2025, that it will expand its financial aid program, making attendance free for students from families earning less than $100,000 annually. This initiative follows a Supreme Court ruling that removed race as a factor in admissions decisions and aims to increase accessibility for middle-income families.
- Harvard expands financial aid program significantly
- Free attendance for families earning under $100,000
- Tuition waived for families earning under $200,000
- Average American household income is $80,610
- Over 100 universities adopt similar practices
- Ivy League enrollment remains very low
The new financial aid structure at Harvard allows students whose families earn less than $100,000 to attend without any costs related to tuition, food, housing, health insurance, or travel. For families with incomes up to $200,000, tuition will be covered entirely. This initiative represents a significant expansion aimed at making the prestigious university more affordable for a broader range of applicants.
Harvard’s total cost of attendance for undergraduate students is projected at approximately $82,866 for the upcoming academic year. Previously set at an income threshold of $85,000 in 2023, this adjustment reflects ongoing efforts by the university to adapt its financial support mechanisms amid changing legal and social landscapes.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Free attendance for families earning under $100,000
- Tuition-free education for those earning up to $200,000
- Additional Support: A two-part startup grant will assist graduates transitioning into post-college life.
This change aligns Harvard with over 100 universities across the U.S. that have implemented similar programs aimed at increasing diversity within their student bodies. However, some experts argue that such initiatives may not significantly impact most students since Ivy League schools attract only a small percentage of college attendees overall.
The expansion of Harvard’s financial aid program marks a pivotal moment in its history as it seeks to enhance accessibility and affordability amidst evolving educational policies and economic realities.
