Study MS at Harvard University

Did you know that Harvard graduates from the Business School earn an average salary of $150,000 per year, while Emergency Medical Services graduates earn up to $182,000 annually?

Pursuing an MS in Harvard University isn't just about joining America's oldest higher education institution - established in 1636. With over 150 Harvard University masters programs spanning diverse disciplines, and a global ranking of 5th in QS World University Rankings 2024, Harvard stands as a beacon of academic excellence. Whether you're interested in masters at Harvard in Data Science, Engineering, or Public Administration, the university offers comprehensive programs backed by $750 million in annual research funding.

While the acceptance rate for engineering masters in Harvard University is just 7.2%, here's some good news - about 60% of Harvard students receive need-based scholarships, with the university granting over $1 billion in financial assistance yearly.

Ready to explore your path to Harvard? Let's dive into everything you need to know about requirements, fees, scholarships, and courses for international students.

*Need assistance to study in USA? Y-Axis is here to assist you in all the ways.

MS Programs at Harvard University

Harvard University offers a rich portfolio of masters programs through its 13 distinct schools, providing international students with diverse educational pathways. The university's graduate programs are designed to foster excellence across disciplines while maintaining Harvard's prestigious academic standards.

Programs	Total Yearly Fees (USD)
Master of Public Administration	53,582
MSc Biostatistics	60,576
MSc Biomedical Informatics	55,254
MSc Data Science	59,105
MSc Applied Computation	25,098
MSc Computational Science and Engineering	54,091
Master of Architecture	52,629
MBA	72,353

Popular Masters Programs at Harvard

Harvard University masters programs span numerous disciplines, catering to varied academic interests and career goals. Among the most sought-after masters at Harvard are:

• Master of Science in Data Science, offering specializations in machine learning, computational science, and statistical analysis
• Master of Education (Ed.M.), available in both residential one-year format and part-time two-year online format
• Master's programs in Biomedical Informatics, Bioethics, and Medical Sciences
• Master's in Computational Science and Engineering, Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design, and Design Engineering

These programs reflect Harvard's commitment to educational excellence while accommodating diverse professional aspirations. Masters in Harvard University consistently rank among the top programs globally, making them highly competitive yet rewarding options for international students.

Harvard University Postgraduate Courses Structure

Harvard University postgraduate courses offer flexible structures to accommodate different learning preferences and career objectives. The university provides both residential and online options for several programs. For instance, the Harvard Graduate School of Education offers its Master's in Education in two distinct formats:

1. A one-year, full-time immersive on-campus experience with five specialized programs covering education leadership, policy, human development, teaching, and learning design
2. A part-time, two-year online program focusing on education leadership with specialized pathways for preK–12 or higher education professionals

Furthermore, Harvard's Kennedy School designs its masters at Harvard to equip students with essential skills for shaping public policy, championing impactful ideas, and developing leadership potential. The selection of a specific program ultimately depends on your personal preferences, educational background, and career goals.

Duration and Credit Requirements

The MS in Harvard University programs typically range from 1 to 3 years in duration, with specific credit requirements varying by program and specialization. Standard Master of Science (SM) programs require students to complete:

• Eight courses (32 credits) for standard SM degrees with full tuition for one year
• Part-time SM students must complete the degree within two years
• More specialized programs like Data Science require 48-64 credits, typically translating to 12-16 classes

For the MS in computer science in Harvard University and related fields, many programs follow a structured approach to curriculum. For instance, the Data Science master's program requires:

• Core courses in data science, machine learning, computing, and ethics
• Electives in computer science and statistics
• "Free" data science electives that may include courses from SEAS, other FAS departments, other Harvard schools, or MIT

Additionally, some programs offer thesis options. The Data Science master's, for example, allows students to substitute three required courses with research credits, culminating in a thesis submission and oral defense. This option requires finding a research advisor and submitting a thesis proposal by mid-April of the first year of study.

Grade requirements are equally important for eligibility for MS in Harvard University. Classes must receive a grade of C (2.0) or higher to count toward the degree, and the average grade across all courses must be B (3.0) or higher.

With an extensive financial aid program, Harvard remains committed to making these educational opportunities accessible, providing over $1.35 billion in aid, benefiting more than 60% of undergraduate students.
 

Eligibility Requirements for MS at Harvard University

Meeting the rigorous eligibility for MS in Harvard University requires careful preparation and strong academic credentials. International students face specific requirements across academic qualifications, English proficiency, standardized testing, and sometimes professional experience. Understanding these criteria is essential before applying to masters at Harvard.
 

Academic Prerequisites for International Students

The foundation of harvard university admission requirements for international students begins with a four-year bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in a relevant discipline. Most harvard university masters programs expect a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Your undergraduate performance serves as a critical indicator of your ability to handle the demanding coursework in masters in harvard university programs.

For certain specialized programs, specific academic backgrounds are preferred. The Master of Medical Sciences in Medical Education, for instance, is primarily open to applicants who are pursuing or have already earned terminal degrees such as MD, MBBS, PhD, or other doctorate degrees in health-related fields.

Students in their final year of undergraduate study may also apply to certain programs. As an example, the 2+2 deferred admission program accepts applications from candidates in their final year, provided they graduate between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.
 

English Proficiency Requirements (TOEFL/IELTS)

Given that English is the primary language of instruction, non-native English speakers must demonstrate adequate proficiency for ms in harvard university programs. This requirement can be fulfilled in one of three ways:

1. Receiving an undergraduate degree from an institution where English is the primary language of instruction (must include at least 3 years of full-time enrollment)
2. Achieving a minimum score of 80 on the internet-based TOEFL
3. Scoring at least 6.5 on the IELTS Academic test

However, different schools within Harvard may set higher thresholds. The Harvard Graduate School of Education, notably, prefers applicants with TOEFL scores of 104 or higher (with individual section scores of at least 26) and IELTS scores of 7.5 or higher.

Moreover, a master's degree or other graduate degree cannot substitute as proof of English proficiency. All test scores must be recent—for fall 2025 admission, tests should have been taken no earlier than January 5, 2023, as scores are valid for only two years.
 

GRE/GMAT Score Requirements

Standardized test requirements vary significantly across harvard masters programs. For instance, two-year master's degree programs at the Kennedy School (MPP, MPA/ID, MPA) require either GRE or GMAT scores, while the one-year Mid-Career MPA Program does not.

Interestingly, Harvard Business School doesn't specify minimum GMAT or GRE scores and shows no preference between the two tests. For the Class of 2026, 63% of admitted students submitted GMAT scores and 41% submitted GRE scores, with some applicants submitting both.

For competitive consideration, particularly selective programs like the MPA/ID recommend quantitative section scores of 160+ on the GRE or 48+ on the GMAT. All standardized test scores remain valid for five years—for fall 2025 admission, tests taken after December 1, 2018, are acceptable.
 

Work Experience Requirements for Specific Programs

Professional experience requirements fluctuate substantially across harvard university masters programs. The MBA program typically expects 2-5 years of business experience in responsible positions, with evidence of leadership and individual accomplishments.

Conversely, some specialized programs like the 2+2 deferred admission are specifically designed for candidates without extensive professional experience. Eligible applicants include undergraduates in their final year, students in joint bachelor/master's programs, and master's degree candidates who haven't held full-time positions (excluding internships or co-ops).

Overall, meeting the eligibility for MS in Harvard University demands meticulous attention to each program's specific requirements. Subsequently, researching individual program expectations is crucial before beginning your application process.

Application Process for International Students

Navigating the application process for ms in harvard university requires meticulous attention to detail and proper timing. For international students pursuing masters in harvard university, understanding the complete application roadmap is essential for maximizing your chances of joining this prestigious institution.

Application Deadlines for Harvard Masters Programs

The harvard masters application deadlines vary significantly across programs, requiring careful attention to specific dates. Generally, applications for master's programs at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences must be submitted by December 1, whereas PhD applications have a later deadline of December 15. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.

For the popular harvard university masters programs in other schools, deadlines also differ:

• Restrictive Early Action: November 1 (with decisions by mid-December)
• Regular Decision: January 1 (with decisions by late March)

Remember that application components must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the deadline date. Unlike some universities, Harvard's deadlines are strict and non-negotiable, so planning accordingly is crucial for masters at harvard applicants.

Required Documents for Harvard University Admission

Preparing a complete application package for ms in harvard university involves numerous components. International students must submit:

• Completed online application form via the designated portal
• Statement of Purpose (limited to 1,000 words for most programs)
• Personal Statement (typically 500 words)
• Three letters of recommendation submitted electronically
• Unofficial transcripts (official copies are required after admission)
• CV or resume detailing relevant experiences
• English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS) if applicable
• Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) if required by your specific program
• Application fee (varies by program, generally between $85-$250)

International students with foreign credits and degrees must have them evaluated for equivalency prior to enrollment. Additionally, fee waivers are available if the cost presents a hardship, which can be requested directly through the application portal.

Tips for Writing a Successful Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose is particularly important when applying to harvard university masters programs, as it demonstrates your academic preparedness and research goals. For a compelling SOP:

Firstly, begin with clearly stated research interests rather than personal stories unrelated to your academic goals. Subsequently, explain your motivation and how previous academic experiences have prepared you for advanced study at Harvard.

The middle section should clarify how you plan to pursue your interests if enrolled, presenting a mini research design with testable hypotheses and methodologies. Furthermore, explain specifically why Harvard's program aligns with your research agenda, mentioning faculty whose work complements yours.

"Your statement should be focused, informative, and convey your research interests and qualifications," according to Harvard's GSAS guidelines. Finally, remember to start drafting early—ideally several months before the deadline—and seek feedback from professors and peers.

Interview Process for MS Applicants

Not all harvard university masters applicants receive interview invitations, but if extended, consider it a positive development in your application journey. Interviews are conducted by invitation only and typically take place after the initial application review.

For international students applying to ms in harvard university programs, interviews may be conducted via Zoom, telephone, or in-person depending on public health restrictions and preferences. These conversations typically last between 30 minutes and two hours and are designed as informal discussions rather than high-pressure interrogations.

Prior to the interview, thoroughly research the program and prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewers. During the interview, maintain professional but comfortable attire—formal business suits aren't necessary, but neither are casual clothes. Obviously, being yourself is essential as Harvard seeks authentic candidates who will contribute meaningfully to their community.

After interviews, alumni interviewers compile reports highlighting the candidate's strengths and fit for the program, which admissions officers consider when making final decisions.

MS in Harvard University Fees and Cost Breakdown

Understanding the financial investment required for ms in harvard university is crucial for international students planning their education journey. The fees for ms in harvard university vary substantially across programs, compelling prospective students to budget carefully for this prestigious educational opportunity. Despite the significant masters at harvard costs, the return on investment through career advancement often justifies the expense.

Type of Expenses	Avg. Yearly Expenditure (USD)
Tuition fee	51,058
Board and Room	17,382
Books and Personal expenses	3,301
Student services fee	2,819
Student activities fee	189
Student health fee	1,140

Tuition Fees for Different Masters Programs

Masters in harvard university programs feature varying tuition structures depending on the specific school and specialization. For standard harvard masters programs in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), the full tuition for 2025-2026 is INR 4,837,362.48 per year. Nevertheless, specialized programs command different rates:

• Computational Science and Engineering master of science (SM): INR 5,529,957.22 (one-year program)
• Data Science master of science (SM): INR 5,529,957.22 (first year); INR 2,764,978.61 (second year: one term only)
• Computational Science and Engineering master of engineering (ME): INR 5,529,957.22 (first year); INR 2,764,978.61 (second year)

At the Harvard Graduate School of Education, full-time students face annual tuition of INR 5,252,176.78, while part-time students pay INR 2,626,088.39. In practice, many harvard university masters programs follow a tiered structure where tuition reduces as students progress through their programs.

The tuition fees vary as per the subject and school for graduate students. The approximate tuition fees for them are as follows:

School	Average Fees in INR
Graduate School of Arts & Sciences	51,794
Harvard Graduate School of Education	54,080
Harvard Graduate School of Design	53,415
Harvard Medical School	44,241
Harvard Extension School	30,612 to 36,743
Harvard Kennedy School	34,838 to 54,564

Additional Costs (Housing, Insurance, Books)

Beyond tuition, harvard university masters students must budget for several additional expenses. Housing represents a significant portion of these costs, with multiple options available:

• On-Campus Without Dependents: INR 173,823.73 monthly (INR 1,738,237.29 for 10 months)
• On-Campus With Dependents: INR 331,615.17 monthly (INR 3,316,151.72 for 10 months)
• Off-Campus (shared housing): INR 187,324.60 monthly (INR 1,873,246.01 for 10 months)

In essence, food costs average approximately INR 47,253.05 monthly (INR 472,530.52 for 10 months). Health insurance is mandatory, with the Harvard University Student Health Program (HUSHP) requiring INR 75,942.41 per term for the Student Health Fee and INR 181,755.49 per term for the Student Health Insurance Plan.

Meanwhile, books and course materials typically cost around INR 8,859.95 monthly (INR 88,599.47 for 10 months). Additional miscellaneous expenses average INR 47,253.05 monthly.
 

Estimated Total Cost for International Students

The comprehensive cost for international ms in harvard university students varies based on housing arrangements and personal circumstances. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the estimated 10-month living expenses total:

• Single student (Off-Campus): INR 3,100,981.57
• With spouse or partner: INR 4,261,212.77
• With spouse/partner plus one child: INR 5,031,184.38
• Each additional child adds approximately INR 611,758.27

Consequently, when combining these living expenses with tuition and fees, the total annual cost for a single international student pursuing a standard masters at harvard program ranges between INR 7,630,186.64 and INR 8,052,088.90. Specialized programs like the MS in Computational Science and Engineering may reach total costs of approximately INR 9 million annually.

Importantly, these figures represent the full cost before financial aid. As a result, many students receive significant scholarship support that substantially reduces their actual expenses.
 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students

Securing financial support for your ms in harvard university journey is achievable through various channels. Fortunately, international students pursuing masters at harvard have the same access to financial aid as American students. This inclusivity makes harvard university masters programs more accessible for qualified candidates worldwide regardless of financial background.

Some of the top scholarships that Indian students receive at Harvard University are as follows:

Scholarship	Total Award Amount (USD)
The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship	19,125
Horace W. Goldsmith Fellowship	9,556
Boustany MS Harvard Scholarship	97,664
HGSE Financial Aid	Tuition, grant, and sundry expenses

Harvard University Scholarships for MS Programs

Financial aid for masters in harvard university operates on a need-based system, with approximately 55% of undergraduates receiving Harvard scholarships. Starting in 2025-26, families with incomes below INR 8,438,045 won't be expected to contribute to their child's education costs. Furthermore, families earning less than INR 16,876,090 will have financial aid covering at least the full cost of tuition.

The harvard masters financial aid package is substantial - the average support for students receiving Harvard scholarship for 2023-2024 included parent contribution of INR 1,080,069, student asset contribution of INR 16,876, and Harvard/federal/outside scholarships totaling INR 5,796,936. Additionally, there's a term-time work expectation of INR 227,827 which can be fulfilled through various campus opportunities.

External Funding Opportunities

For international students pursuing ms in harvard university, numerous external funding options exist beyond institutional aid. The Aga Khan Foundation provides scholarships for postgraduate studies to outstanding students from developing countries on a 50% grant: 50% loan basis. Similarly, the American-Scandinavian Foundation offers over INR 42,190,225 in funding to Scandinavians studying in the United States.

Other notable opportunities include:

• International Fellowships for non-U.S. citizens/permanent residents
• OAS Scholarship and Training Programs for citizens of OAS Member States
• RCC Graduate Scholarships specifically for international students at Harvard

Indeed, Harvard encourages students to begin their search early as many external scholarships have varying application procedures and deadlines. Resources like the International Scholarships site, SPIN database, and UCLA Fellowship Database can help identify suitable opportunities.

Teaching and Research Assistantships

Working as a Teaching Assistant presents an excellent opportunity to earn while gaining valuable experience during your masters at harvard. TAs typically commit 8-10 hours weekly, with the pay rate for Academic Year 2024-2025 at INR 1,771.99 per hour according to the Harvard Graduate Student Union contract.

Alternatively, Research Assistantships offer flexible work arrangements. RAs at the Growth Lab, for instance, typically work 2-4 hours weekly with positions varying in length depending on project needs. The application process is competitive, requiring submission of CV/resume, transcripts, and responses to specific questions about research interests.

Essentially, when combined with scholarships and external funding, these assistantships help make harvard university masters programs financially manageable for international students from diverse economic backgrounds.

Life as an International MS Student at Harvard

The campus experience for international students pursuing an ms in harvard university extends far beyond academics. Alongside rigorous coursework, students immerse themselves in a vibrant community with comprehensive support systems designed specifically for those studying far from home. Understanding these resources enhances your masters at harvard journey and helps create a balanced student life.

Housing Options on and off Campus

For international masters in harvard university students, Harvard offers diverse housing solutions. Harvard University Housing provides nearly 3,000 apartments close to campus without requiring security deposits or application fees. These accommodations include utilities, 24-hour maintenance, and are primarily located within one mile of Harvard Yard. Alternatively, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences offers residence halls specifically for full-time, single students through a lottery system. Off-campus options are accessible through Harvard's partnership with Off Campus Partners, which features a roommate-matching component.

Student Resources and Support Services

International students pursuing harvard university masters programs receive dedicated assistance from the Harvard International Office, which provides guidance on healthcare, immigration, visas, and housing. The Center for Wellness and Health Promotion focuses on mental wellbeing through services addressing mindfulness, meditation, and stress management. Throughout their ms in harvard university experience, students have access to TimelyCare (a virtual telehealth platform) and the 24/7 CAMHS Cares support line (617-495-2042) for mental health concerns.

Career Services and Placement Opportunities

The Mignone Center for Career Success (MCS) serves as the central resource for harvard masters students seeking professional opportunities. MCS hosts career fairs, employer events, and specialized workshops tailored to diverse career paths. The Student Employment Office coordinates job fairs and manages Harvard's Federal Work Study Program, offering practical experience while studying. For masters at harvard international students, additional career support comes from both the Harvard International Office and the Office of International Education, providing specialized guidance on navigating the American job market.

Summary

Pursuing an MS at Harvard University stands as a transformative educational investment, backed by the institution's prestigious legacy and comprehensive support for international students. Harvard University masters programs combine academic excellence with extensive financial aid opportunities, making this world-class education accessible through scholarships, assistantships, and external funding options.

The path toward your masters at Harvard demands careful preparation - meeting stringent academic requirements, securing necessary test scores, and completing a thorough application process. Though tuition and living costs appear substantial, Harvard's commitment to need-based aid helps qualified students achieve their educational goals regardless of financial background.

Remember that success at Harvard extends beyond academics. Rich student resources, diverse housing options, and dedicated career services create a supportive environment for international students. Through strategic planning and utilizing available resources, your dream of earning a Harvard University masters degree can become reality.

FAQs

Q1. Are international students eligible for scholarships at Harvard University? 

Yes, international students are eligible for scholarships at Harvard University. The university offers need-based financial aid to both domestic and international students. Families with incomes below certain thresholds may receive substantial support, potentially covering the full cost of tuition.

Q2. What are the English language proficiency requirements for Harvard's master's programs? 

Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency through one of three ways: completing an undergraduate degree where English is the primary language of instruction, scoring at least 80 on the internet-based TOEFL, or achieving a minimum of 6.5 on the IELTS Academic test. Some programs may have higher score requirements.

Q3. How much does a master's degree at Harvard typically cost? 

The total annual cost for a single international student pursuing a standard master's program at Harvard ranges between 7.6 million to 8 million Indian Rupees (approximately $100,000 to $105,000 USD). This includes tuition, fees, and living expenses. However, many students receive significant financial aid that reduces their actual expenses.

Q4. What housing options are available for international master's students at Harvard? 

Harvard offers various housing options for international students. These include on-campus residence halls, Harvard University Housing apartments near campus, and off-campus housing options. The university provides resources to help students find suitable accommodations based on their preferences and needs.

Q5. What career support services does Harvard provide for international master's students? 

Harvard offers comprehensive career support for international master's students through the Mignone Center for Career Success. This includes career fairs, employer events, specialized workshops, and guidance on navigating the American job market. Additionally, the Harvard International Office and the Office of International Education provide specialized career support for international students.

 

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