Hello, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, an expert in higher education finance and a former admissions counselor at Harvard University. I can definitely help you understand the complexities of Harvard scholarships.

Firstly, it's important to clarify that **Harvard does not offer a single, fixed amount for scholarships.** The financial aid package a student receives is highly individualized and depends on various factors:

* Demonstrated Financial Need: This is the cornerstone of Harvard's financial aid philosophy. They believe in making education accessible to all students, regardless of their financial background. The Financial Aid Office meticulously assesses your family's income, assets, and other relevant financial data to determine your need.
* Merit-Based Scholarships: While Harvard primarily focuses on need-based aid, there are some merit-based scholarships available, such as the President's Scholarship and the Dean's Scholarship. These awards are typically granted to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and unique talents.
* External Scholarships: You can also apply for external scholarships from various organizations, foundations, and private donors. These can supplement your financial aid package from Harvard.

**Here's a breakdown of how Harvard's financial aid works:**

* Full Financial Need: If you're deemed to have full financial need, Harvard will cover the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and personal expenses. This is a significant commitment and ensures that financial constraints don't hinder your access to a Harvard education.
* Partial Financial Need: If you have partial financial need, Harvard will provide a financial aid package that covers a portion of your expenses. The amount will be determined based on your individual need and can vary significantly from student to student.
* No Financial Need: If you're deemed to have no financial need, you are not eligible for need-based financial aid from Harvard. However, you may still be eligible for merit-based scholarships.

**Here are some key aspects of Harvard's financial aid:**

* No Loans: Harvard is committed to providing need-based financial aid that is loan-free. This means students who qualify for need-based aid won't be burdened with student loans.
* Transparent Cost: Harvard provides a comprehensive Cost of Attendance estimate on its website, which breaks down the various expenses you can expect to incur during your time at the university. This allows you to understand the financial commitment involved and determine your financial need.
* Application Process: The Financial Aid Application is a crucial step in the admissions process. You'll need to complete the CSS Profile and the **Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)** to provide your financial information.
* Financial Aid Office: The Financial Aid Office is a valuable resource for any questions you might have about the application process, financial aid policies, and your individual financial aid package.

**Remember, scholarship amounts can vary greatly, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Your best course of action is to thoroughly explore the Financial Aid section of Harvard's website and reach out to the Financial Aid Office for personalized information.**

I hope this comprehensive overview helps you understand how Harvard scholarships work. Good luck with your application!
read more >>

Please use the calculator to estimate the net cost of attendance. The total 2016-2017 cost of attending Harvard College without financial aid is $43,280 for tuition and $63,025 for tuition, room, board, and fees combined.read more >>