Listed below are some of the more commonly asked questions (and answers) related to financial aid at the GSD.

What does it mean to qualify for financial aid? How do I know if I qualify?
The majority of GSD financial aid funds are need-based awards, which means that funding is given based on the financial situation of the student. The only way to know if you will get financial aid is to apply. Since situations change from year to year and there are many variables involved, we cannot quote a specific level where students will or will not qualify for aid.

Does Harvard offer scholarships?
Yes, the Harvard Committee on General Scholarships offers a wide variety of awards for both US and international students. These scholarships require a separate application to apply. Some applicants need to submit additional materials to accompany the application. Please visit the Harvard Committee on General Scholarships for more information and instructions on how to apply.

Is there financial aid available for International Students?
Yes, the GSD has limited need-based grant funds available for international students who qualify. Not all international students who apply for aid will receive financial aid. International students are also eligible to be considered for merit-based aid.

The website says that financial aid applications are due by early February. Does this mean that I have to apply for financial aid before I know if I am admitted?
Yes, do not wait until you receive your admissions decision to apply for aid.

If I am admitted to the GSD, will my financial aid information be released at the same time as my admissions decision?
As long as you apply for financial aid by the stated deadline and are admitted to the GSD, you should get your financial aid package at the same time as your admissions decision. Please keep in mind that this is dependent on the applicant filling out the financial aid application completely. An incomplete application can result in the financial aid package being delayed.

I missed the financial aid application deadline. Does this mean I cannot get financial aid?
Late aid applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Since applying for financial aid has no bearing on your admission, all those interested in applying for aid should apply by the aid deadline.

I’m a US student (citizen or permanent resident). Is there a GSD-specific financial aid application for me to apply?
Yes, prospective US students will need to submit both the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and the GSD internal financial aid application. You will only be considered for a financial aid package after submitting both forms. The FAFSA can be found online. Information on how to complete the internal financial aid application will be made available once you have completed your admissions application. Both the FAFSA and the internal financial aid application will need to be submitted by February 5, 2023.

What is the federal school code I need to enter on the FAFSA for the GSD?
The correct federal school code for the GSD is E00212.

I do not want to take all the loans which were offered to me. What should I do?
Please email the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] for further instructions.

I have prior educational loans. Do I have to make payments on those while I am attending the GSD?
Not usually, if it’s a federal loan. Because you will be in school, you should qualify for loan payment deferment. Harvard participates in a national clearinghouse program that updates lenders with student enrollment dates. However, if your lender requires it, you should contact your lender to obtain a deferment form which will be completed and mailed from our Registrar’s office after you have officially registered.

I have not yet filed my income taxes for the year. Should I wait to complete my application materials?
No. This year’s FAFSA will ask for an earlier year’s tax information, so you won’t need the most recent tax information for that application. The GSD internal aid application will ask for the more recent year income information, so we encourage you to complete that application in late January when you may have a better idea of your total income for the most recent year. You may also use estimates for the most recent year’s income information if necessary.

Can I receive any money from my aid before the school year begins?
No. We cannot disburse aid until a student has officially registered for classes. If you have special circumstances, please contact the Financial Aid Office at [email protected].

Must I reapply for financial aid every year?
Yes.

Where can I find tax reporting documents such as a 1098 or a 1042-S?
The Student Financial Services Office provides tax reporting documents and offers tax filing resources for students from all Harvard schools. The staff of the Financial Aid Office cannot give you individual tax advice, and we recommend seeking guidance from a qualified accountant or attorney for complicated situations.

 

If you can’t find the information you’re looking for or still have questions, please reach out to the Financial Aid Office. We’re here to help.

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