Hi there! My name is Coach Thompson, and I've been working in college athletics for over 20 years. I've helped countless young athletes navigate the tricky world of college recruiting and find the best fit for their academic and athletic careers. Let's dive into your question about athletic scholarships at Harvard.

So, you're asking, "Can you get an athletic scholarship to Harvard?" The short answer is no, but the situation is a bit more nuanced than that. Let me explain:

**Harvard doesn't offer athletic scholarships** in the traditional sense. They, along with all the other schools in the Ivy League, operate on a need-blind financial aid policy. This means they don't consider your ability (or inability) to pay when they're deciding whether or not to admit you. Pretty cool, right?

But here's the part that might surprise you: **Athletics play a huge role in admissions at Harvard.** They might not offer scholarships specifically for athletics, but being a recruited athlete can significantly increase your chances of getting in.

Here's how it works:


1. Recruitment: Harvard coaches actively recruit top athletes in their respective sports. They're looking for individuals who are not only exceptional athletes but also strong students with great character.

2. The Coach's Endorsement: If a coach wants you on their team, they'll "flag" your application and advocate for your admission to the admissions committee. This endorsement carries significant weight.

3. Academic Standards Still Matter: Don't get me wrong, you still need to be academically competitive to get into Harvard. While your athletic achievements can boost your profile, you still need strong grades, test scores, and a compelling application.

4. Need-Based Financial Aid: If you're admitted, Harvard will work with your family to determine your financial need and provide a generous aid package. This could include grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. **Many athletes receive significant financial aid packages** that make attending Harvard possible.

Here's the bottom line: While there's technically no such thing as an athletic scholarship at Harvard, being a recruited athlete can be your **ticket to an amazing education with substantial financial assistance**. So if you've got the talent and the drive, don't let the lack of traditional scholarships deter you from pursuing your dreams at one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

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No. As an Ivy League institution, Harvard does not offer athletic or academic scholarships to students. However, Harvard does provide need-based financial aid to those students who demonstrate financial need.read more >>