Harvard University has announced a significant expansion of its financial aid programme, making undergraduate education more accessible to middle-class families. From the 2025-26 academic year, students from households earning $200,000 or less annually will be eligible for free tuition. This initiative is expected to ease financial burdens for aspiring students and open doors to one of the world’s most prestigious institutions.
Additionally, students from families with incomes below $100,000 will receive full financial support covering tuition, housing, health insurance, and other essential expenses. These students will also be granted a $2,000 start-up allowance in their first year and a $2,000 launch grant in their junior year to assist with their transition beyond university life.
Harvard’s financial aid team will assess individual financial circumstances to determine the level of support required for each student. Those from families earning more than $200,000 may still qualify for financial assistance based on specific circumstances. This policy marks a significant increase in Harvard’s financial aid threshold.
This initiative reflects Harvard’s commitment to increasing accessibility for talented students regardless of financial background. By reducing the financial barriers associated with higher education, the university aims to attract a diverse and gifted student body.
The updated financial aid plan is expected to encourage a greater number of middle-income students to pursue their education at Harvard without the burden of tuition fees, ensuring that financial constraints do not limit academic aspirations.
