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Harvard University

The oldest university in the United States

#5
QS Rank
1636
Founded
~25%
Intl. students
~4%
Acceptance
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About Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard is the oldest higher-education institution in the US and one of the most influential in the world. It is renowned for law, business, medicine, government, and the humanities.

💰 Tuition Fees for International Students

Undergraduate
USD 57,000–60,000/year
Postgraduate
USD 52,000–75,000/year (varies by school)

Fees are indicative for international students. Verify current rates on the university's official website.

📋 Entry Requirements

IELTS7.0+ overall
PTE68+
GPAExtremely competitive; SAT/ACT and top academic record

🌏 Life as an International Student

📍 Location
Cambridge, MA, United States
💼 Working while studying
On-campus up to 20 hours/week; off-campus only via CPT/OPT
🎓 After you graduate
OPT — 12 months (up to 36 months for STEM fields)
🏥 Health cover
Private health insurance is required (~US$1,500–2,500/yr).
💰 Living costs
US$12,000–20,000 per year
🗓️ Main intakes
Fall (main) and Spring

Country-level guidance for international students. Visa, work and cost figures change — confirm current details with Harvard University and the United States immigration authority.

Popular Programmes

EconomicsComputer ScienceMBA (HBS)Law (JD)Public Health

🎓 Scholarships Available

  • Need-based undergraduate aid (meets full need)
  • Graduate fellowships and assistantships
  • School-specific scholarships

Also check: government and national scholarships →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Harvard meet full financial need for international students?

Yes. Harvard is need-blind and meets 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted undergraduates, including international students. Families below a set income threshold often pay nothing.

What is Harvard best known for?

Harvard has world-leading schools in law, business, medicine, and government, along with strong undergraduate programmes in economics, computer science, and the humanities.

Where is Harvard University located?

Harvard University is located in Cambridge, MA, United States.

Can international students work while studying at Harvard University?

United States generally allows students to work on-campus up to 20 hours/week; off-campus only via CPT/OPT. On-campus roles — library, admin or research-assistant work — are often available too. Always confirm the work conditions attached to your student visa.

Can I stay and work after graduating from Harvard University?

Yes — United States offers a post-study work pathway: OPT — 12 months (up to 36 months for STEM fields). Eligibility and length depend on your course and level, and immigration rules change, so confirm the current policy before relying on it.

How much should I budget for living costs at Harvard University?

Plan for roughly US$12,000–20,000 per year in living costs on top of tuition. Cambridge, MA can run above or below that national range depending on rent and lifestyle.

Do I need health insurance to study at Harvard University?

Private health insurance is required (~US$1,500–2,500/yr). Build this into your budget before you arrive.

When are the main intakes at Harvard University?

United States's main university intakes are Fall (main) and Spring. Apply well ahead of your intended start — popular intakes and scholarships fill early.

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