Harvard University MBA Scholarships in USA 2026
Harvard University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and its Harvard Business School (HBS) MBA is highly respected by employers, entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.
However, the cost of earning an MBA at Harvard can be a major concern for international students. The good news is that Harvard Business School offers substantial need-based scholarships and fellowships to eligible students, including international applicants.
For the 2026 MBA program, HBS reports that approximately 50% of students receive need-based scholarships, with an average award of about $100,000 over two years. Some students receive full-tuition scholarships.
This guide explains the available Harvard MBA scholarships, eligibility requirements and how international students can apply.
Harvard MBA Scholarship Details
Harvard Business School offers a two-year, full-time MBA program focused on general management, leadership and real-world business challenges.
Unlike some universities that award MBA scholarships primarily based on academic or professional merit, HBS separates admission from financial aid.
Admission is based on merit, while financial aid is based on demonstrated financial need.
HBS scholarships are grants and do not have to be repaid.
The school currently reports:
- Approximately 50% of MBA students receive need-based scholarships
- Average need-based scholarship of approximately $100,000 over two years
- About 10% of students receive full-tuition scholarships
- Most scholarships fall within the $30,000–$70,000 range
- Awards can reach $87,000 per year
Who Is Eligible?
Harvard Business School financial aid is available to both U.S. and international students.
International applicants are evaluated using the same need-based scholarship formula, regardless of citizenship.
HBS considers several factors when determining financial need, including:
- Income from the previous three years
- Personal and family assets
- Undergraduate education debt
- Socioeconomic background
- Family circumstances
For married students or students with children, HBS may also consider the spouse’s income and assets and the higher cost of living associated with family responsibilities.
Harvard MBA Scholarships and Fellowships
1. HBS Need-Based Scholarship
This is the main financial aid opportunity for MBA students.
Students who demonstrate financial need may receive a scholarship that reduces the amount they need to pay through savings, loans or other funding.
The scholarship does not need to be repaid.
2. Forward Fellowship
The Forward Fellowship provides additional support to students from lower-income backgrounds who have significant financial responsibilities.
The fellowship is worth $30,000, paid as $15,000 during each year of the two-year MBA.
It can be awarded in addition to a need-based HBS Scholarship.
3. External Scholarships
International students can also explore funding from organizations outside Harvard.
HBS encourages students to investigate external scholarship opportunities and other sources of financial support.
Students can generally apply up to $40,000 over two years from outside scholarship sources without reducing their HBS Scholarship.
How to Apply for Harvard MBA Scholarships
Step 1: Apply for the Harvard MBA
The first step is to apply for admission to the Harvard Business School MBA program.
You must be admitted before you can apply for HBS need-based financial aid.
Step 2: Complete the Financial Aid Application
After admission, you will receive access to the HBS financial aid application.
International students can apply for financial aid using the same need-based process as other students.
Step 3: Provide Financial Documents
Applicants may need to provide financial information and supporting documentation covering their income, assets and other financial circumstances.
International students must also complete the Certification of Finances Form required for non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
Step 4: Receive Your Financial Aid Package
HBS reviews your financial information and determines your demonstrated need.
Your final financial package may combine an HBS Scholarship with fellowships, external funding, personal savings and student loans.
Can International Students Afford Harvard MBA?
Yes. International students should not assume that the high published cost of an HBS MBA means they must personally pay the entire amount.
HBS has a large financial aid program and works with international students to explore funding options, including student loans. Some international students can also access loans without a U.S. co-signer, although having a U.S. co-signer may increase available options.
For the 2026–27 academic year, HBS lists tuition and other living-related expenses as part of its annual cost of attendance, making financial planning an important part of the application process.
Final Thoughts
Harvard Business School offers one of the strongest financial aid programs available to MBA students in the United States.
For international students, the opportunity is particularly important because HBS scholarships are based on financial need rather than citizenship.
With approximately half of MBA students receiving need-based scholarships and an average award of around $100,000 over two years, eligible students may be able to significantly reduce the cost of their Harvard MBA.
If you are planning to study for an MBA in the United States, Harvard Business School should be considered if you have a strong professional background, leadership potential and a financial need that can be demonstrated through the school’s application process.
For the latest scholarship requirements and application information, visit the official Harvard Business School Financial Aid website.
