Mon Mar 17 14:20:00 UTC 2025: **Harvard Expands Financial Aid, Making College Free for Many**
Cambridge, MA – Harvard University announced a major expansion of its financial aid program, making a Harvard education free for a significantly larger portion of the U.S. population. Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, students from families with annual incomes of $100,000 or less will receive full financial aid covering tuition, room and board, health insurance, and travel expenses, plus a $4,000 grant. Students from families earning $200,000 or less will receive free tuition and additional aid based on their individual circumstances.
This expansion, announced by University President Alan Garber and Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences Hopi Hoekstra, will make Harvard affordable for approximately 86 percent of U.S. families. The initiative builds upon two decades of increased financial aid, culminating in the elimination of loans in 2007 and the removal of home equity as a factor in determining financial need. Harvard has already awarded over $3.6 billion in undergraduate financial aid since 2004. The university’s annual financial aid budget will reach $275 million for the 2025-26 academic year.
University officials emphasized the importance of increasing access to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid William Fitzsimmons stated that the program ensures talented students from all backgrounds can thrive in the Harvard community. The expansion aims to broaden perspectives and experiences within the student body, enriching the overall learning environment.
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