How many openings are available for this opportunity?

There is no limit to the number of people that can attend Harvard using the initiative. The only limitation to the program is the student is able to be accepted to the University. This means you have to be in the top 10% of your class and have the appropriate SAT or ACT score. In fact, I was told the university has no preference to ACT or SAT. You just need to do very well and be accepted.

Here is a bit more information about the students enrolled and their test scores so you can get an idea of what your student is up against getting accepted.

Test scores At Harvard University

Harvard requires scores from the SAT or the ACT (with Writing) plus 3 SAT Subject Tests.

There is no preference between the SAT I and ACT.

Applicants should take the ACT by mid-February and/or the SAT I and II by mid January.

The Common Application is used together with supplemental forms.

Campus visit: not required.

Interview: may be arranged.

Acceptance rate: 6.3%

Top 10% of high school students: 95%

SAT  score (25/75 percentile): 2080-2370

ACT score (25/75 percentile): 31-35

Source: http://www.admissionsconsultants.com/college/harvard.asp

As you can see from the scores above, the competition for getting into Harvard is stiff to say the least. However, there are many talented students that fit these criteria for entrance that come from low income households. Hopefully, more and more will apply, get in and are able to take advantage of the Harvard Financial Aid Initiative.

Here a list of the fees associated with Harvard

Tuition and fees for 2013-2014:     $55,066

Room and board for 2012-2013:   $15,050

Average financial aid package for 2012-2013: $44,053

Here is where my phone call really got interesting, as if you were not blown away at this point, because there is more to the program and the numbers behind them.

The initiative isn’t just cut and dry with the $65,000 marker, but there is a sliding scale involved. Students from families with household income ranging from $65,001 to $200,000, you can still receive some significant savings on the yearly cost of education at Harvard. In short, there is a sliding scale involved in the financial aid department. However, above $200,000, things start to tick up quickly until you get to $240,000 and you are not eligible at all for any discounts.

Here is are some ranges you can keep in mind if you are considering. Keep in mind everyone’s situation is different. I plugged some numbers in to the Harvard Net Price Calculator to get these figures.

Estimated Cost to Attended Harvard for the Families

$65K – $0/yr

$75K – $3,375/yr

$100K – $8,000/yr

$125K – $12,500/yr

$150K – $15,000/yr

View Calculator Here: http://npc.fas.harvard.edu/

The cost are offset a few ways including work study, donation, and scholarships as explained above. However, the opportunity to quality is great for most people. Again, 70% of those who attend Harvard are on some sort of financial assistance. If you are considering, then you should definitely have your student apply and go for it.

Are they looking for students or is it based on who applies, if they look for students where will they recruit?

I was informed, Harvard does actively promote this program and are constantly looking for students who qualify for this opportunity. It is just unfortunate many in our community are not aware of the program and are left in the dark, but that is why we are reporting on this program and how to shed some significant light on it for you or someone you know. Please pass along this information.

Are there any other Ivy League schools with similar outreach programs?

When I asked this question, the lady said with certainty the other Ivy League schools have some sort of financial aid programs available. She just didn’t know for sure if they were as extensive as this Harvard Financial Aid Initiative, but encouraged me to call the other institutions to find out more information as they would be better equipped to answer the questions and expose the details of their programs.

At the end of the day, you are encouraged to follow up with this program if you have a student that might qualify to be accepted in Harvard or pass it along if you know someone who does. This is a great opportunity to attend a wonderful institution for free or a significantly reduced cost.

Here is the contact information for you to look up or call yourself to get the details.

Website: http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/or call the school’s financial aid office at (617) 495-1581.

Best of luck!

Don’t forget to read part one: http://urbanintellectuals.com/2013/09/23/1low-income-students-dont-pay-dime-harvard-called-verify/