Understanding the financial commitment involved in attending Harvard University is crucial for prospective students. This article breaks down the cost of attendance, focusing on tuition and other related expenses for both the MBA and MS/MBA programs at Harvard for the 2024-2025 academic year. We’ll explore direct costs like tuition and fees, as well as indirect costs such as living expenses, providing a clear picture of the overall investment.
Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA Program: Cost of Attendance 2024-2025
The cost of attendance at Harvard Business School encompasses direct expenses billed to your student account and indirect expenses that are more flexible and dependent on your lifestyle. This estimate is based on a nine-month academic year and a moderate student lifestyle.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Expense | Single | Married | Married with One Child | Married with Two Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $76,410 | $76,410 | $76,410 | $76,410 |
| Course & Program Materials Fee | $2,650 | $2,650 | $2,650 | $2,650 |
| HUHS Student Health Fee (SHF) | $1,592 | $1,592 | $1,592 | $1,592 |
| Student Health Insurance (SHIP) | $4,202 | $4,202 | $4,202 | $4,202 |
| HUSHP (Spouse/Dependents) | $0 | $9,112 | $13,828 | $16,198 |
| Housing | $17,280 | $26,820 | $34,560 | $34,560 |
| Food | $6,120 | $8,190 | $10,296 | $11,430 |
| Transportation | $2,280 | $3,924 | $4,029 | $4,029 |
| Other Living Expenses | $8,320 | $10,736 | $13,351 | $15,071 |
| Total | $118,854 | $143,636 | $160,918 | $166,142 |
| Computer (Variable) | [$1,500] | [$1,500] | [$1,500] | [$1,500] |
It’s important to note that the housing costs listed above are based on average area market rates and may vary depending on your specific housing choices.
The Harvard Business School campus, a hub for MBA studies, influences the cost of attendance due to its location.
Harvard MS/MBA Program: Cost of Attendance 2024-2025
The MS/MBA program is a ten-month program, and the cost of attendance reflects this longer duration. Similar to the MBA program, costs are divided into direct and indirect expenses.
Here’s a breakdown for the MS/MBA program:
| Expense | Single | Married | Married with One Child | Married with Two Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $90,505 | $90,505 | $90,505 | $90,505 |
| Course & Program Materials Fee | $2,800 | $2,800 | $2,800 | $2,800 |
| HUHS Student Health Fee (SHF) | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 |
| Student Health Insurance (SHIP) | $4,308 | $4,308 | $4,308 | $4,308 |
| HUSHP (Spouse/Dependents) | $0 | $9,892 | $14,994 | $17,562 |
| Housing | $21,200 | $32,200 | $42,000 | $42,000 |
| Food | $10,110 | $12,760 | $15,310 | $17,860 |
| Transportation | $2,620 | $4,510 | $4,570 | $4,570 |
| Other Living Expenses | $9,520 | $12,160 | $15,120 | $17,070 |
| Total | $142,663 | $170,935 | $191,407 | $198,475 |
| Computer (Variable) | [$1,500] | [$1,500] | [$1,500] | [$1,500] |
As with the MBA program, these figures are estimates, and your actual expenses may vary.
The iconic Widener Library at Harvard University. Consider tuition as an investment in access to resources like this.
Important Considerations Regarding Harvard Tuition and Costs
Several factors can influence your overall cost of attendance:
- Housing Leases: While the academic year is nine months for the MBA program, off-campus housing often requires a 12-month lease. Plan accordingly for the additional three months of rent and expenses.
- Federal Student Aid: Eligibility for federal student aid is based on the annual cost of attendance for a single student.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory. The Student Health Fee (SHF) is required for all students and cannot be waived. However, you may waive the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) portion if you have comparable coverage from another provider.
- Optional Activities: Harvard offers numerous optional activities. While the cost of attendance includes allowances for typical expenses, students should budget carefully or plan for additional savings to cover these costs.
Understanding the Investment
Attending Harvard University represents a significant investment in your future. By understanding the various components of the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and living expenses, prospective students can make informed financial decisions and plan effectively for their academic journey. Remember to explore all available financial aid options to help offset these costs.
The Harvard University seal represents the prestige and potential ROI of a Harvard education.
