Hi everyone! My dream school is Harvard, but I'm a little bit worried about the cost. Can anyone give me an idea of the total cost of attendance? Also, any tips on financial aid or scholarships I could apply for to help with the cost would be amazing. Thanks!
Hello! It's understandable that you want to get a better idea of the cost for attending Harvard. As of the 2024-2025 academic year, the estimated total cost of attendance at Harvard is around $82,866 per year. This includes tuition, fees, room, board, books, supplies, and personal expenses.
Now, let's talk about financial aid. Harvard is well-known for its generous financial aid program. In fact, more than half of Harvard students receive some form of financial aid. The College is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students admitted to the undergraduate program. They have a need-blind admissions policy for all U.S. students which means that your ability to pay does not influence your chances of getting in.
To seek financial aid, you'll need to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the CSS Profile, along with any other financial aid requirements specific to Harvard. The deadline for submitting these forms for Early Action is typically around November 1st, while for Regular Decision, usually February 1st. Be sure to stay up to date on the deadlines!
As Harvard's financial aid is 100% need-based, if you are looking for merit scholarships you should also consider applying for outside scholarships. There are many scholarship databases such as Fastweb, Scholarships.com, and Cappex where you can create a profile to find scholarships that fit you best. Additionally, check for local scholarships in your community, as these can have fewer applicants and better odds of being awarded.
Lastly, if you have a job in high school or during college, you can use your earnings to help offset some of the cost. Many students choose to work part-time during the academic year or take on work-study opportunities offered by their college.
I hope this information is helpful! Good luck in your admissions journey and pursuing financial aid for your dream school.
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