The 2025-2026 financial aid application is now available—here’s what you need to know

The 2025-2026 master’s program financial aid application is now live. Applicants wishing to apply for financial assistance must submit the financial aid application by Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 11:59 a.m. ET.

We recognize that pursuing a graduate degree requires a significant investment in your personal and professional future, and we’re here as your partner for financial assistance. In the post below, we’ve addressed some frequently asked questions about financial aid at Harvard Kennedy School.

How do I access the financial aid application?

To access the financial aid application, please login to the application portal and start a 2025-2026 Financial Aid Application. You must submit an application for admission before gaining access to the financial aid application. 

Is applying for financial aid mandatory?

While the financial aid application is not mandatory, we strongly encourage all applicants to submit the financial aid application to be considered for scholarships and fellowships. Financial assistance decisions are based primarily on merit, so you should apply regardless of financial need. If you have your own source of funding and do not wish to be considered, you do not need to complete the financial aid application. You should be aware, however, that there are very few opportunities to secure HKS or Harvard aid after you have been admitted or enroll.

What does the financial aid application entail?

You will be asked to provide information about your household’s income and assets. There will also be questions to help you determine if you are eligible to apply for specific fellowships or scholarships. Many of these fellowships or scholarships require additional materials such as essays or personal statements, so we encourage you to start the financial aid application early.

How does applying for financial aid impact the application process? 

Applying for financial assistance does not impact the evaluation process or place you in a different applicant pool. All applicants, regardless of whether they apply for aid, are reviewed through the same holistic review process.

Can I still be accepted into HKS if I do not receive financial assistance?

Yes, your application for financial aid does not impact your application for admission. An average of 49% of enrolled students received Harvard or HKS aid during the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 academic years, meaning approximately half of our students do not receive assistance.

When will I find out if I’ve been awarded financial aid? 

You will be notified if you have been awarded institutional scholarships at the same time you are notified of your admission decision, which will be in mid-March 2025. There are, however, some scholarships administered by Harvard’s Committee on General Scholarships that you may find out about later. 

Are international students eligible for financial aid? 

Yes, scholarship funding is available to both international and domestic students. Some institutional funding is restricted to specific criteria such as a student’s area of study, citizenship, or region.

International and domestic students are also both eligible for student loans; however, your options differ. Domestic students may borrow federal and/or private loans, while international students are only eligible for private loans. You will receive more guidance about student loans after you have been admitted. 

If I will be enrolling in a concurrent or joint degree program, can I use my scholarship when attending the other institution?

HKS funding can only apply while you are enrolled at HKS. Be sure that you understand the financial aid policy of the other school to which you are applying or attending.

What other financing opportunities are available to HKS students?

Many of our students finance their education through a combination of resources including savings, external scholarships or sponsorship, and student loans. In addition to these resources, students can find paid work through teaching assistantships, summer internships, research positions, and more. Students who borrow to attend HKS and pursue a career in public service may be able to have some of their debt repaid through our Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP).