Undergraduate Tuition

During the past 20 years, Harvard's undergraduate bill has risen from $14,000 to $39,880 per academic year (before any offsetting financial...

During the past 20 years, Harvard's undergraduate bill has risen from $14,000 to $39,880 per academic year (before any offsetting financial aid), an increase of 183 percent. The figures below compare tuition and fee growth to the higher-education price index (up about 110 percent); median family income (roughly doubled); and the urban consumer price index (up about 80 percent). Tuition exclusive of room, board, and fees—graphed at bottom—rose from $9,500 to $27,448.


 

Most popular

Harvard Financial Report Surplus

The annual financial report also documents endowment changes.

On Firmer Footing

Robust financial results despite the pandemic, and historic endowment returns

Harvard Endowment Increases $11.3 Billion and University Operates at a Surplus

A 33.6 percent return on endowment investments, as expense controls and donor support buoy the budget in an unprecedented year

Explore More From Current Issue

Three joyful graduates in caps and gowns celebrate together outdoors.

Commencement Week Events

Harvard Commencement Events 2026

A dancer in a black leotard poses gracefully in a bright studio, with mirrors reflecting her movement.

A New ‘Black Swan’ Musical Cranks Up the Tension

The creative team of the A.R.T.’s new show dish on adapting Darren Aronofsky’s thriller classic from screen to stage.

A man holding a revolver and lantern, wearing a hat and coat, appears to be walking cautiously.

Scoundrels, Then and Now

On con men, Mark Twain, and the powers of the Harvard name