Savanna Hoffman
Harvard University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and its alumni include some of the most influential people across a range of industries. However, with annual tuition fees of over $80,000, it is also one of the most expensive. While the exact amount each student pays varies, Harvard offers a range of financial aid packages, scholarships, and grants to help make its education more accessible. So, how much does the average Harvard student pay?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average earnings 6 years after enrolling | $96,800 per year |
| Average earnings 10 years after enrolling | $136,700 per year |
| Median first-year starting salary for Computer Science graduates | $128,900 |
| Median first-year starting salary for Statistics graduates | $126,100 |
| Median first-year starting salary for Applied Mathematics graduates | $80,500 |
| Median first-year starting salary for Business Administration, Management and Operations graduates | $161,400 |
| Median first-year starting salary for Law graduates | $158,200 |
| Median first-year starting salary for Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences graduates | $143,200 |
| Personal expenses expected to be covered by students per academic year | $3,500 |
| Base pay for undergraduate student workers per hour | $15 |
| Graduate school starting wage range per hour | $18-$21 |
| Percentage of Harvard graduates earning less than $95,000 per year ten years after graduation | 50% |
| Maximum financial aid for students with a family income of $200,000 and below with typical assets | Full cost of tuition |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Harvard's financial aid program
Harvard College provides need-based financial aid to ensure that admitted students can afford a Harvard education. The Griffin Financial Aid Office works with students and their families to understand their financial situation and create a comprehensive financial aid package that accounts for the full cost of attendance. Harvard's financial aid program is committed to economic diversity and ensuring that a student's financial circumstances do not prevent them from attending the university.
Harvard offers need-based financial aid for all students, regardless of nationality or citizenship. The university has a long tradition of providing access to education, with scholarship funds established as early as 1643. Today, alumni and donors continue this tradition with contributions to the endowment and current-use funds, allowing Harvard to maintain its need-based financial aid program. The university promises to meet the demonstrated financial need of students for all four years of their education.
Financial aid at Harvard covers all billed expenses, including tuition, fees, food, and housing, health insurance, travel costs, winter gear, event fees, and other activities. Additionally, students receive a $2,000 start-up grant in their first year and a $2,000 launch grant in their junior year to help prepare for post-Harvard life. For families with incomes below $200,000, financial aid will cover at least the full cost of tuition, and students may qualify for additional aid to cover other expenses. Financial aid is also available for students from families with incomes above $200,000, depending on their individual circumstances.
Harvard also offers millions of dollars in student funding for public service, research, learning, international travel, and career opportunities. The university provides tips and resources to help students complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and other financial aid applications. Harvard is committed to making its education accessible to students from all financial backgrounds and works closely with families to ensure affordability.
How to Pay Off Navient Student Loans
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Undergraduate student workers' pay
As of August 1, 2020, Harvard College has set a base pay of $15 per hour for undergraduate student workers. This is also the minimum wage rate in Massachusetts. Previously, student workers at Harvard University reported an hourly wage between $12 and $15, with an average of $13 per hour. When factoring in bonuses and additional compensation, the average annual salary for a student worker was $27,735.
The base pay rate for undergraduate student workers is determined by Harvard College and applies to all students working in Harvard College departments. This rate serves as a guideline for employers who do not participate in the Federal Work-Study Program.
It is worth noting that the starting wage for graduate students at Harvard varies but typically falls within the range of $18 to $21 per hour. Additionally, certain positions may be covered by the Graduate Student Union collective bargaining agreement, which outlines specific wage requirements.
Undergraduate student workers at Harvard University can expect to earn a competitive hourly wage, which provides them with financial support during their studies. This wage is intended to help offset the cost of tuition and living expenses associated with attending Harvard. It is important for students to understand their employment rights and stay informed about any updates to the base pay rate or relevant collective bargaining agreements.
Sending Money to International Students: Indian Banks' Role
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Graduate student wages
Six years after enrolling, the average salary for all Harvard alumni is $96,800 per year. This number increases to $136,700 per year ten years after graduation.
When it comes to graduate and doctorate students, those in the Business Administration, Management, and Operations program have a median initial income of $161,400, followed by Law at $158,200, and Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences at $143,200.
It is important to note that these salary figures may vary based on various factors, such as industry, location, and individual career paths. Additionally, the cost of attending Harvard can significantly impact the return on investment (ROI) of a degree.
Regarding graduate students employed by Harvard University, estimates place the average annual salary between $46,179 and $97,880, with an hourly wage ranging from $36 to $61. Graduate students at Harvard have also reported compensation and benefits ratings of 4.7 out of 5 stars, indicating a high level of satisfaction with their overall compensation packages.
Student Loans: Can I Lose My Home?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Alumni earnings
A Harvard degree is often a launchpad for high-paying, high-impact careers. The median salary for Harvard graduates 10 years after enrolment is around $96,000, but this can vary widely by field and degree. Six years after enrolling, the average earnings of alumni working full-time are $96,800 per year. After 10 years, graduates earn an average of $136,700.
According to the US Department of Education's College Scorecard, as of 2025, six years after graduating, the median pay for non-Ivy League graduates was $53,727. The median pay for Ivy League graduates was $102,000, a nearly 90% advantage.
The undergraduate degree with the highest median starting salary is Computer Science at $128,900, followed by Statistics at $126,100 and Applied Mathematics at $80,500. For postgraduates, the highest median initial income is Business Administration, Management and Operations at $161,400, followed by Law at $158,200. Harvard Law graduates regularly start at $190,000 in BigLaw, while Business School graduates often take home $150,000-$175,000 in base salary, with signing bonuses and stock options on top.
However, it's important to note that 50% of Harvard graduates earn less than $95,000 per year after 10 years. This may be because they chose their major and/or career path based on criteria other than maximising income. For example, an Econ major at Harvard makes 2-3 times more than a Greek Art History major.
Wells Fargo Student Loan Payment Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
ROI concerns
There are several factors to consider when discussing the return on investment (ROI) of attending Harvard University. While the cost of attendance can be high, Harvard offers need-based financial aid to ensure that admitted students can afford their education. Still, prospective students and their families may have concerns about whether the benefits of a Harvard degree justify the financial investment.
One key consideration is the potential earnings of Harvard graduates. On average, alumni who are working six years after enrolling have earnings of $96,800 per year. This number increases to an average of $136,700 per year after ten years. However, it is important to note that these averages may not reflect the earnings of the "average" graduate, and there is variation depending on the area of study. For example, Computer Science graduates have a median starting salary of $128,900, while Applied Mathematics graduates have a median starting income of $80,500.
Online discussions highlight the potential ROI concerns for students who do not pursue high-earning majors or careers. According to some sources, 50% of Harvard graduates earn less than $95,000 per year ten years after graduation. This has been characterised as a "poor ROI" for students who paid full tuition of $360,000. However, it is important to recognise that Harvard graduates may prioritise criteria other than maximising income when choosing their major and career path. For example, an individual with a Yale Law degree working as a public defender may have chosen a lower-paying job for personal or societal fulfilment rather than financial gain.
The benefits of a Harvard education extend beyond immediate financial returns. The university's prestige and reputation can provide lifelong advantages and opportunities. For instance, an individual studying pre-med at Harvard may benefit from the impression the university's name makes on future employers or clients. However, it is important to remember that prestige alone may not guarantee a job or a high salary. The connections and network built during university may not directly translate into high-paying job opportunities.
In summary, while Harvard University offers financial aid to make attendance more accessible, there are valid ROI concerns for prospective students and their families. The potential earnings of graduates, especially in comparison to the cost of attendance, can be a significant factor in the decision-making process. However, it is essential to consider the variation in earnings based on areas of study and individual career choices. Additionally, the perceived value of a Harvard degree extends beyond immediate financial returns, highlighting the multifaceted considerations when evaluating the ROI of a Harvard education.
Credit Cards vs. Student Loans: Which Debt to Tackle First?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The cost of attendance for Harvard is over $82,000 per year. This includes tuition, housing, food, and student services.
Harvard offers generous financial aid packages to students with demonstrated need. The average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students is around $53,000 to $70,525.
The average net price of tuition and fees varies year to year. For example, in 2019, the average net price was $14,610, while in 2024, tuition alone costs $56,550.
Yes, Harvard has stated that families earning less than $65,000 to $85,000 per year are not expected to contribute financially to their student's education.
The median federal loan debt for Harvard undergraduates is $14,000, while the average private loan debt at graduation is $60,776. However, Harvard graduates have high earning potential, with average salaries of $96,800 six years after enrolling.
