Harvard Scholarship Requirements: Everything You Need to Know

Harvard University holds a reputation as one of the world’s most esteemed institutions. Gaining admission is challenging, with its acceptance rate at a mere 4.9%. Yet, Harvard ensures that all deserving students, irrespective of their financial situation, can access its education through scholarships.

Scholars can be a lifeline for prospective students whose high cost of attending Harvard may deter. Harvard offers students need-based scholarships based on various factors, including family income, assets, size, and unusual expenses. 

The university does not offer merit-based scholarships; all financial aid packages are determined solely based on demonstrated financial need.

The importance of scholarships for prospective students cannot be overstated. With financial assistance, many students could attend Harvard and benefit from its world-class education.

Determining Eligibility for Harvard Scholarships

Harvard University is known for its generous financial aid packages based solely on demonstrated financial need. The university does not offer any merit-based scholarships. 

Harvard meets 100% of students’ demonstrated financial need, making it possible for students from all economic backgrounds to attend.

Students seeking financial aid should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. Financial aid is based on demonstrated need, considering family income, assets, size, and unusual expenses.

In addition to demonstrating financial need, students must also meet specific academic and extracurricular requirements. Exceptional test scores and GPA are essential factors in the admissions process, as are adequate extracurricular activities. 

Demonstrating leadership, community involvement, and other accomplishments outside of the classroom can also strengthen a student’s application.

Harvard’s financial aid packages are based solely on demonstrated need, ensuring that every student receives equal treatment. They don’t offer preferential packages that favor certain students over others.

Types of Scholarships and Financial Aid

Harvard provides numerous financial aid options, ensuring students from all economic backgrounds can afford their education. The university is dedicated to offering assistance based on financial need.

Need-based Financial Aid

Harvard provides need-based financial aid to students based on their family income and financial circumstances. The university does not offer merit-based scholarships, but exceptional athletes may receive athletic scholarships. Harvard covers 100% of students’ demonstrated financial need, including tuition, room and board, and other expenses.

External Scholarships

Students can seek need-based financial aid and scholarships from Bold.org. Many of these scholarships are merit-based and provided by outside organizations.

Students are encouraged to research and apply for external scholarships to supplement their financial aid package.

Application Process and Tips

When applying for a Harvard scholarship, there are several essential things that applicants must keep in mind. First and foremost, it is crucial to contact Harvard’s financial aid office to get all the necessary information on the application process. 

The office is available to answer any questions that applicants may have about eligibility, requirements, and deadlines.

Submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most critical aspects of the application process. This form determines the applicant’s financial need and eligibility for federal financial aid programs. 

Submitting the FAFSA as early as possible is essential since many scholarships and grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants should showcase their achievements and unique skills to increase their chances of success. They should highlight their alignment with Harvard’s values and demonstrate substantial financial need. Paying attention to the details and submitting a complete and error-free application is also crucial.

Besides the mentioned points, applicants can adopt various strategies to enhance their likelihood of success. One effective approach is customizing their application to align with the specific scholarship criteria. 

Consulting with trusted advisors or mentors for feedback can also help make their application more robust and persuasive.

GPA and Test Score Requirements

Harvard University is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, so the admission process is highly competitive. While no specific GPA requirement exists, most admitted students have high GPAs. According to CampusReel, Harvard University’s average GPA is 4.18, making it brutally selective.

For the College Classes of 2027-2030, submitting standardized test scores is optional when applying for admission. If students choose not to provide these scores, it won’t affect their application negatively. For further details, check the College Board FAQs.

However, it is essential to note that while GPA and test scores are important factors in the admission process, they are not the only factors. Harvard University also places great importance on leadership skills, community involvement, and other holistic factors. 

The university seeks to admit students who will excel academically and contribute to the community and positively impact the world.

Scholarships for International Students

Harvard Graduate School of Design offers the Frank Boas Scholarship for international students pursuing graduate study in the United States and Canada. 

Meanwhile, the Kate Neal Kinley Memorial Fellowship provides scholarships for international women students. Interested applicants may visit their website for more information on the application process and requirements.

Harvard College provides financial aid to international students via its innovative financial assistance program. Thanks to kind donors, 24% of students attend without fees, and over half are awarded need-based scholarships.

The financial aid office provides an informational guidebook (335KB pdf) for international students, which may be found on the Harvard University International Office website.

It is important to note that financial aid sources for international students are limited. Thus, external funding and scholarships are essential for those wishing to study at Harvard. 

International students can seek help from resources such as EducationUSA. This network is managed by the U.S. Department of State, featuring over 400 advising centers for international students across more than 170 countries.

Graduate Scholarships at Harvard

Harvard University provides numerous scholarship opportunities for graduate students attending its graduate and professional schools. These scholarships are available to both domestic and international students.

The eligibility criteria and application process for graduate students may differ from those for undergraduate students. Graduate students must complete their Ph.D. requirements in four to six years. 

Financial support takes several forms, including fellowships, teaching fellowships, and research assistantships. Ordinarily, first-year Ph.D. students are supported with full fellowships so that they can devote their time to coursework.

Harvard University awards scholarships based on the financial need of the student and their family. Financial assistance is granted solely based on the family’s proven financial situation. This program aims to support families from all economic backgrounds, from low to upper-middle incomes.

Apart from Harvard scholarships, graduate students may also receive scholarship funds from sources outside Harvard, such as secondary schools, civic organizations, parental employers, corporations, the National Merit Scholarship Programs, VA Benefits, and the ROTC.

It is important to note that each scholarship’s eligibility criteria and application process may vary. Therefore, students must carefully review the guidelines and requirements for each scholarship they apply for. 

Additionally, students can contact the Harvard Committee on General Scholarships for further questions or concerns.

Conclusion and Next Steps

In conclusion, applying for a Harvard scholarship is a rigorous and competitive process that requires careful consideration and preparation. It is essential to research each scholarship’s specific requirements thoroughly and start the application process early.

One crucial step is demonstrating academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to community service. Additionally, financial need is a critical factor in determining eligibility for Harvard scholarships. 

Students should carefully review their family’s financial situation and gather all necessary documentation before applying for financial aid.

Moreover, it is essential to note that Harvard is one of many sources of scholarship funding. Students are encouraged to seek external scholarships from civic organizations, parental employers, corporations, and other sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Apply for Multiple Scholarships at Harvard?

Yes, you are encouraged to apply for multiple scholarships at Harvard. The university supports students in seeking as many scholarships as they qualify for. 

However, it’s important to note that receiving numerous scholarships may affect your financial aid package. If you receive more scholarship funds than your demonstrated financial need, your financial assistance package may be adjusted accordingly.

Are There Scholarships for Specific Programs or Departments at Harvard?

Yes, there are scholarships available for specific programs or departments at Harvard. For example, the Harvard Medical School offers scholarships for medical students, while the Harvard Law School offers scholarships for law students. 

The university also provides engineering, computer science, and arts scholarships. It’s essential to check with the specific program or department to see what scholarships are available.

How Does Harvard’s Financial Aid Compare to Other Ivy League Schools?

Harvard’s financial aid program is one of the most generous among Ivy League schools. The university is committed to making education accessible to students from all backgrounds, regardless of their financial situation. 

Harvard offers a financial assistance program based on a student’s financial need. This means scholarships are given to those who show they need financial help. Additionally, the university has a no-loan policy, ensuring students don’t have to borrow money for their education.

This sets Harvard apart from other Ivy League schools, many of which need students to take out loans to cover the cost of attendance.