Harvard's published cost of attendance reaches $82,842 annually, including $59,076 in tuition, $20,374 for room and board, and $1,000 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,816 after financial aid, representing savings of $66,026 from the sticker price.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $82,842 |
| Tuition and Fees | $59,076 |
| Room and Board | $20,374 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$66,026 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $16,816 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $2,895 |
| $30–48k | $2,496 |
| $48–75k | $2,167 |
| $75–110k | $13,937 |
| $110k+ | $53,571 |
Harvard's published cost of attendance reaches $82,842 annually, including $59,076 in tuition, $20,374 for room and board, and $1,000 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $16,816 after financial aid, representing savings of $66,026 from the sticker price. This substantial discount reflects Harvard's commitment to making education accessible despite high published costs.
The average net price of $16,816 compares favorably to the peer median of $27,143, indicating stronger financial aid relative to similar institutions. Net prices vary dramatically by family income, ranging from $2,895 for families earning under $30,000 to $53,571 for families earning over $110,000. This progressive pricing structure ensures that lower-income families pay significantly less than higher-income families.
Harvard's financial aid program demonstrates substantial support for students from diverse economic backgrounds. The 15.8% Pell share reflects meaningful enrollment of students from families earning under approximately $50,000 annually, though this represents a smaller share than at many public institutions.
The large gap between sticker price ($82,842) and average net price ($16,816) indicates comprehensive aid covering most students. Net prices by income tier show particularly strong support for families earning under $75,000, who pay under $3,000 annually.
This aid structure enables Harvard to enroll economically diverse students despite high published costs. The financial aid savings of $66,026 on average suggests most families receive substantial assistance regardless of income level.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is well below typical first-year earnings — generally considered very manageable.
Harvard graduates demonstrate exceptional debt management relative to both peer institutions and their earning potential. Median student debt reaches $14,000, significantly below the peer median of $24,181, representing $10,181 less borrowing than similar institutions.
Debt levels span from $4,379 at the 25th percentile to $16,135 at the 75th percentile, indicating most students graduate with modest debt loads. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14 means typical debt represents just 14% of first-year earnings, well below concerning levels.
Parent PLUS borrowing averages $25,000 with monthly payments of $329, indicating additional family investment but manageable levels. The combination of controlled student borrowing and strong earnings creates favorable debt sustainability.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Harvard represents an exceptional educational investment despite high sticker prices. Graduates earn $13,369 beyond expectations relative to similar students, ranking at the 89.5th percentile nationally for value creation.
Median earnings of $101,817 rank at the 99th percentile, indicating top-tier economic outcomes. The $38,751 earnings advantage over peer median earnings of $63,066 demonstrates substantial long-term value.
Low debt levels of $14,000 versus peer median debt of $24,181 create favorable cost structures for this return. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14 indicates sustainable repayment relative to income levels.
