Student Life

There is an electric feeling of possibility on our campus.

Energy and activity, forward momentum, and enthusiastic exchange. Our students are at the heart of it. They are remarkable for their diversity of background, experience, and thought—enriched by their differences and connected by a commitment to transform ideas into solutions to public problems.

As a Harvard Kennedy School student, you will be welcomed into a vibrant community representing countries and territories from around the world and every corner of the United States to form an intellectually curious and globally-minded cohort.

Getting involved in the active life of the school is one of the surest ways to feel at home here. As a student at HKS, you can participate in more than 90+ student-run organizations, ranging from the Student Public Service Collaborative to the Rowing Club. You can be part of student-led conferences, contribute to any of our student publications, or commit to serving the HKS community through the Kennedy School Student Government. Explore the options and craft your HKS experience.

Student Activities & Resources

Students playing quidditch in the snow in JFK Park.

Student Activities

There are dozens of opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Volunteer. Play a sport. Join a professional interest group. Attend a conference. Share a skill. Learn something new.

two speakers seated on stage in front of conference attendees sitting at round tables

Student-Led Conferences

Getting involved in student-led conferences are one of many ways for you to enhance your Harvard Kennedy School experience.

Student Publications

The HKS Student Policy Review offers Harvard students an opportunity to engage with the most important policy issues of our time, across a whole range of topics and regions.

Student Government

The Kennedy School Student Government organizes events and conveys student ideas and concerns to the administration and faculty members.

Students studying, chatting, and moving their way through the student lounge.

Wellbeing, Health, and Support

The Harvard Kennedy School experience is incredibly rewarding. It can also be rigorous and demanding. Along the way, you may find some support can help keep you on track.

a number of disability-themed stickers displayed on a wooden table

Accessibility Services

At Harvard University and Harvard Kennedy School, disability is an essential part of our community’s diversity.

Two people in a kayak paddling on the Charles River on a sunny summer day.

Living in the Boston-Cambridge area

The Harvard Kennedy School campus is an easy walk from the historic red brick of Harvard Yard and its acclaimed museums, preeminent libraries, and theaters as well as neighborhood cafés, boutiques, bookstores, and music venues.