Harvard University has announced a major expansion of its financial aid program, making tuition free for families with annual incomes below $200,000 (£154,000). Additionally, those earning under $100,000 will receive full coverage for housing and health insurance expenses.
Set to begin in the 2025–2026 academic year, this initiative aims to improve accessibility for middle-income families. It comes amid federal scrutiny of university funding under the Trump administration, particularly concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
Harvard President Alan Garber highlighted the broader impact of the policy, stating that increasing financial accessibility enhances diversity within the student body, enriching both academic and personal experiences. He emphasized that this move ensures a Harvard education remains within reach for all admitted students.
The university estimates that approximately 86% of U.S. households will now qualify for its financial aid programs. For reference, the median U.S. household income in 2023 was $80,000, according to the U.S. Census.
This decision aligns with similar policies at other top institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which also provide free tuition for families earning less than $200,000. Previously, Harvard had waived all costs, including housing and medical expenses, for families making under $85,000.
According to the Education Data Initiative, the average annual cost of attending a private university in the U.S., including living expenses, is $58,000. The organization also reported that college costs have more than doubled since 2001.
