Total Cost of Attendance
Harvard University costs approximately $63,020 per year for the 2024-2025 academic year. This figure represents the total cost of attendance and includes tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and meal plans. Understanding this price tag is the first step in planning for one of the world's most prestigious institutions.
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Breaking Down the Sticker Price
The total cost is composed of several distinct categories that families must budget for. While tuition is the largest single expense, living costs in Cambridge, Massachusetts add significantly to the annual total.
- Tuition and Fees: Approximately $57,690
- Housing: Approximately $3,240
- Meal Plan: Approximately $8,200
- Personal Expenses and Books: Approximately $3,890
Financial Aid and Net Price
The published cost often differs dramatically from what a family actually pays. Harvard meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need for admitted students, replacing loans with scholarships in most cases. Families are expected to contribute based on their income, assets, and family size, but the university does not include parent home equity in its financial aid calculations.
How Costs Compare
While Harvard's sticker price is high, the net cost for middle-income and lower-income families is often comparable to or lower than attending a public university in-state. The university's massive endowment allows it to offer generous grants, making it accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Additional Expenses to Consider
Beyond the standard cost of attendance, students should budget for travel to and from home, health insurance if not covered by the university plan, and course materials. The Harvard Student Government also levies a small activity fee that funds student organizations and events.