Undergraduate scholarships at Harvard for international applicants?

I'd like to know more about scholarships for international students looking to pursue undergraduate studies at Harvard University. How does one qualify, and are there specific awards or financial aid packages I should know about before applying?

Harvard University is committed to making education accessible to students worldwide, which includes providing generous financial aid packages to its international students. In fact, Harvard offers need-based aid, and their need-blind admissions policy for all applicants, including international students, means that an applicant's ability to pay does not affect admissions decisions.

If you're an international student interested in applying to Harvard, you should know that your family's financial circumstances will be thoroughly evaluated to determine your need level. Harvard uses a range of parameters other than income, such as family size, overall wealth, and costs of living in your home country.

As part of your application process, you will be required to submit the CSS Profile, along with tax returns and any wage statements. The financial aid package you'll receive will cover your ‘demonstrated need’ as assessed by Harvard's financial aid office.

In terms of specifics, families with an annual income of less than $65,000 are not expected to contribute to college costs. Families with incomes between $65,000 and $150,000 are expected to contribute from 0-10% of their income.

Harvard does not typically offer merit-based scholarships or athletic scholarships. Financial aid at Harvard is based entirely on need. They aim to make sure that every student admitted can afford to attend, regardless of their financial situation. Remember, the aid provided includes not only the cost of tuition, but also other expenses such as room and board, books, and personal expenses.

While Harvard’s aid packages are generally generous, if you find any discrepancies or if your circumstances change, you can always appeal your financial aid decision by reaching out to the financial aid office with the necessary documentation to support your claim.

Lastly, it's always beneficial to apply for external scholarships which can further reduce your family contribution. However, keep in mind that Harvard would adjust your financial aid package if you receive outside scholarships, to ensure that your total aid doesn't exceed your demonstrated need.