Information on Harvard Scholarships?

I'm wondering about the scholarships available at Harvard University. What kinds of scholarships are offered, and how competitive is the process? Any insights on how to improve my chances would be appreciated!

Harvard University provides need-based financial aid and does not offer merit-based scholarships. Their financial aid program is designed to be inclusive, and about 55% of Harvard students receive need-based scholarship aid.

The school uses a combination of endowment income, gifts, and tuition revenue to fund their financial aid program, but they do not have a separate application process for scholarships. You simply need to apply for financial aid while applying to Harvard, which will determine your eligibility for their need-based scholarship program.

Harvard uses the information you provide in your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as well as the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). They subtract this EFC from the total cost of attendance to calculate your demonstrated need.

To increase your chances of getting aid, make sure you and your family file your financial aid forms accurately and by the deadline. It's also crucial that you understand the Harvard financial aid policy: families who earn less than $65,000 a year pay nothing towards the cost of attendance. For families earning between $65,000 and $150,000, the parents contribute from 0-10% of their income.

If you need financial assistance beyond what Harvard’s need-based aid can provide, you might also consider external scholarships and grants, which are offered by various non-Harvard organizations and entities. Remember to research these awards carefully and apply well in advance of deadlines.

In summary, while Harvard does not have a separate scholarship application, their need-based financial aid is quite comprehensive. Just ensure that you apply on time and carefully fill out all necessary documentation.