One app for all your study abroad needs
Harvard University, a prestigious institution renowned globally for academic excellence, offers a range of scholarships to talented Indian students. To increase your chances of securing funding, explore scholarships like the Harvard College Financial Aid Initiative, which meets 100% of the financial needs of international students. Other notable options include merit-based scholarships awarded by Harvard departments and research centres. These scholarships aim to support exceptional individuals who demonstrate academic merit, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact on the world. This guide to Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students will provide an overview of the available scholarships, outline the eligibility criteria, and guide you through the application process.
This Blog Includes:
Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students
Harvard University offers a range of scholarships to support talented Indian students. These scholarships are designed to make a Harvard education more accessible and help students achieve their academic and professional goals.
| Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students | Eligibility Criteria | Financial Aid |
| Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship | Must have completed a bachelor’s degree, have relevant work experience, and need to give an interview | USD 10,000 awarded to a total of 7-10 1st year students pursuing an MBA |
| The Robert S. Kaplan (MBA 1983) Life Sciences Fellowship | Must have completed a bachelor’s degree, have relevant work experience, and need to give an interview | USD 20,000 (USD 10,000 per year) is awarded to a total of 10 incoming MBA students |
| Need-Based Fellowships | Significant financial need | Financial aid |
| HGSE Financial Aid | Economics students can apply and show financial need | Grants, scholarships, loans |
| Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship | Excellent academic background, and need to give an interview | 75% of the cost of tuition, and also covers living and travel costs related to the internship |
| Aga Khan Scholarship | Excellent academic performance and Excellent leadership skills are required along with professional experience | The Aga Khan Scholarship will be provided for the entire duration of a master’s program and for PhD students. |
1. Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship at Harvard University
Recognising outstanding leadership in nonprofit and public service sectors, the Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship supports undergraduate students at Harvard University who have demonstrated both academic excellence and a strong commitment to social impact. This fellowship encourages students to continue making meaningful contributions to their communities while pursuing their studies at Harvard.
| Particulars for Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship | Details of the Fellowship |
| Coverage | Fully funded fellowship awarded based on leadership experience and academic merit |
| Eligibility | Must be admitted to an undergraduate program at Harvard; Proven full-time leadership in nonprofit or public sector organisations |
| Application Deadline | Awarded at the time of admission; no separate application required |
| Application Process | Automatic consideration upon admission; no separate application needed; selection based on leadership experience and academic performance |
2. The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship
The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship supports graduate students at Harvard who demonstrate a strong interest and potential in the life sciences field. This fellowship recognises academic excellence and encourages students to contribute to advancements in life sciences through research, innovation, and leadership.
| Particulars of The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship | Details |
| Coverage | Fully funded fellowship for graduate students pursuing life sciences degrees |
| Eligibility | Admission to a Harvard graduate program in life sciences; Demonstrated interest and excellence in the life sciences sector |
| Application Deadline | Considered automatically upon admission; no separate application required |
| Application Process | 1. Apply and gain admission to the relevant Harvard graduate program. 2. Candidates with a demonstrated interest in life sciences are automatically considered. 3. Selection is based on academic performance and alignment with life sciences interests; no additional application is required. |
3. Need-Based Fellowships at Harvard University
Harvard University offers Need-Based Fellowships to ensure that students from all economic backgrounds can access its world-class education. These fellowships are awarded based on demonstrated financial need and are available for undergraduate, graduate, and professional school students. The goal is to provide comprehensive support, including grants, loans, and other resources, so that financial constraints do not hinder academic success.
| Particulars of Need-Based Fellowships at Harvard University | Details of Fellowship |
| Coverage | Fully funded fellowships and grants based on demonstrated financial need; may include loans and other support |
| Eligibility | All admitted students to Harvard programs (undergraduate, graduate, or professional); Awarded based on financial need |
| Application Deadline | Considered during the admissions cycle; deadlines vary by program (e.g., December 2025 – January 2026) |
| Application Process | 1. Submit your program application (undergraduate, graduate, or professional school).2. Complete the financial aid application as part of your admissions package (CSS Profile, FAFSA, or school-specific forms).3. Harvard evaluates your financial need based on submitted documents (income, assets, family situation).4. If admitted, you will receive a financial aid package including fellowships, grants, and loans. |
4. HGSE Financial Aid
The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) provides financial aid to support students pursuing graduate programs such as Ed.M. and Ph.D. This aid is designed to ensure that financial constraints do not limit access to HGSE’s rigorous academic programs. Financial assistance can include fellowships, grants, loans, and other forms of support, tailored to each student’s demonstrated financial need.
| Particulars of HGSE Financial Aid | Details of Financial Aid |
| Coverage | Fully funded fellowships, grants, loans, and other financial support based on demonstrated need |
| Eligibility | Admission to HGSE graduate programs; Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international students; Awarded based on financial need |
| Application Deadline | February 14, 2026 (for graduate programs) |
| Application Process | 1. Apply to the HGSE program of your choice (Example: Ed.M., Ph.D.). 2. After admission, submit the Financial Aid Application along with forms detailing financial status (tax forms, income details, etc.). 3. Provide any additional documentation requested by the HGSE Financial Aid office. 4. If eligible, receive a financial aid package including fellowships, loans, and other support. |
5. Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
The Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship is designed to support high-achieving students, including international candidates, who have secured admission to the Harvard Business School MBA program. This scholarship recognises academic excellence and leadership potential, providing financial assistance to help students pursue their MBA without financial constraints.
| Particulars for the Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship | Details of Scholarship |
| Coverage | Fully funded scholarship for eligible MBA students |
| Eligibility | Admission to the Harvard Business School MBA program; Strong academic record; Open to international students |
| Application Deadline | Applications typically open in May; the Deadline is around July 15, 2026 |
| Application Process | 1. Apply and secure admission to the Harvard MBA Program. 2. Submit required documents to the Boustany Foundation: CV, GMAT/GRE scores, photograph, and acceptance letter. 3. Send documents to the official Boustany Foundation email. 4. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, either in person or online. |
Explore: Popular Scholarships for USA September Intake
How can Indian students apply for the Harvard University Scholarship?
Getting into Harvard University from India is highly competitive, but it’s definitely achievable with dedication and a strong application. Here’s a breakdown of the important steps to get Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students:
| Steps to Apply for Harvard University Scholarship | Details of Steps |
| 1st Step: Research and Choose Your Program | Decide whether to apply to Harvard College (undergraduate) or a graduate school such as Business, Law, or Education. Understand program-specific requirements, SAT/ACT for undergraduates, GRE/GMAT/LSAT for graduate applicants. Early research helps in efficient preparation. |
| 2nd Step: Maintain Academic Excellence | Aim for above 90% in Class 12, strong SAT/ACT or JEE scores for undergraduates, and competitive GRE/GMAT/LSAT scores for graduate programs. Obtain strong letters of recommendation to strengthen your profile. |
| 3rd Step: Prepare for Standardised Tests | Undergraduate applicants should aim for strong SAT/ACT scores and demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS. Graduate applicants need competitive GRE/GMAT scores and proof of English proficiency if English is not their first language. |
| 4th Step: Build a Strong Application Profile | Write compelling essays or a Statement of Purpose reflecting goals, values, and experiences. Highlight leadership roles, community service, research, internships, and awards to demonstrate achievements. |
| 5th Step: Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships | Submit financial aid forms for need-based aid covering tuition, housing, and living expenses. Graduate students can also apply for merit-based scholarships such as the Boustany MBA and the Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship. External scholarships like Fulbright-Nehru and Aga Khan Foundation awards can supplement funding. |
| 6th Step: Complete the Application Process | Undergraduates: Submit Common or Coalition Application with transcripts, essays, recommendation letters, and test scores (if applicable). Graduates: Apply via the respective Harvard school portal with program-specific requirements, essays, recommendation letters, test scores, financial documents, and any additional materials. |
| 7th Step: Prepare for Scholarship Interviews | Some scholarships require interviews. Prepare to discuss academic strengths, leadership experiences, career goals, and motivation for choosing Harvard. Practising common questions improves confidence and clarity. |
| 8th Step: Secure Financial Aid Packages | Harvard’s need-based aid is grant-based and does not require repayment. Graduate students can combine institutional aid with external scholarships to fully cover tuition, living costs, and additional expenses. |
| 9th Step: Complete Visa Formalities | Apply for an F-1 student visa using your Harvard acceptance letter, proof of financial support, SEVIS fee confirmation, and valid passport. Attend the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in India. |
| 10th Step: Track Deadlines Carefully | Maintain a checklist for admission, scholarship applications, financial aid forms, and visa processes. Staying organised ensures you meet all deadlines and maximises chances of securing both admission and funding. |
Documents Required for Harvard University Scholarship
Successfully navigating the Harvard University scholarship application process requires meticulous attention to detail. Here’s a comprehensive checklist of important documents. Applicants need to submit a completed online application form accurately.
- Official academic transcripts from all previous schools and universities attended must be provided.
- SAT or ACT scores are required as part of the application.
- English proficiency test results, such as TOEFL or IELTS, should be submitted if applicable.
- Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or professionals are necessary.
- A well-structured personal essay highlighting achievements, goals, and motivation must be included.
- A portfolio of relevant work should be submitted, if applicable.
- An updated resume detailing academic, extracurricular, and professional accomplishments is required.
Harvard Scholarships: Opportunities and Advantages for Indian Students
Beyond financial assistance. Harvard scholarships provide Indian students with life-changing opportunities. These extend across academics, career growth, and global exposure
- Harvard University Scholarships offer Indian students a unique combination of financial support, academic opportunity, and career advancement. These scholarships are designed to make a Harvard education accessible while providing long-term benefits beyond tuition.
- Harvard’s financial aid packages often cover full tuition, mandatory health insurance, and additional fees such as student activities or lab costs. For Indian students, this means substantial savings on international education expenses. Undergraduate need-based aid can cover up to 100% of tuition depending on demonstrated financial need, ensuring that deserving students can focus on academics rather than costs.
- Many Harvard scholarships also include assistance for living costs, including housing, meals, and local transportation. Certain fellowships, like the Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship, even provide travel allowances for airfare and accommodation, making it easier for Indian students to transition to life in the U.S. without financial stress.
- A Harvard scholarship provides access to the university’s extensive global network. Indian students benefit from career fairs, industry-specific conferences, mentorship programs, and networking events with global leaders and alumni. These connections can open doors to high-profile internships, jobs, and leadership roles worldwide.
- Being awarded a Harvard scholarship signals academic excellence, leadership potential, and merit-based recognition. For Indian students, this distinction adds considerable weight to their academic and professional profile, enhancing opportunities for competitive employment, advanced studies, and leadership positions across the globe.
- Since scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and other essential costs, Indian students can graduate with little or no debt. This financial freedom allows them to pursue their career ambitions, entrepreneurial goals, or higher studies without the pressure of repayment, fostering long-term personal and professional growth.
Securing a Harvard University scholarship as an Indian student requires dedication, careful planning, and a strong overall profile. By maintaining academic excellence, preparing for standardised tests, building a compelling application, and exploring financial aid opportunities, you can significantly enhance your chances of admission. Staying organised, meeting deadlines, and presenting your achievements effectively will help you unlock the opportunity to study at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions while benefiting from generous scholarship support.
FAQs
Harvard provides need-based financial aid to international students, including those from India. The amount of aid depends on the family’s financial situation, not on academic performance. Eligible students may receive scholarships that cover tuition, room, and board in full.
The total cost of the MBA program for the 2022–2023 academic year is USD 112,764. Harvard Business School offers several financial aid options for Indian students. On average, students receive a need-based scholarship of about $80,000 over two years, which comes to USD 40,000 per year.
In the USA, some scholarships cover all expenses. Indian students can apply for programs like the Fulbright Scholarship, which pays for both tuition and living costs.
The Rhodes Scholarship is often considered one of the most prestigious and highly-regarded international scholarships. It provides comprehensive funding for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford.
Several countries offer 100% scholarships, including Germany, Norway, and some countries in Europe. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs.
Several countries provide excellent education at little to no cost. Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Norway are known for offering affordable or even free higher education.
RELATED BLOGS
We hope that this blog was able to provide you with all the information regarding ‘Harvard University Scholarships for Indian Students’. Lastly, for more such content on universities to study abroad, stay tuned to Leverage Edu. Thank you for reading!
60,000+ students trusted us with their dreams. Take the first step today!