Harvard University, USA MBA Scholarship 2025

Harvard University’s Harvard Business School (HBS) offers one of the most prestigious MBA programs globally. However, the program’s high tuition and living expenses can be challenging for many students. To make an MBA accessible to talented students worldwide, HBS provides various scholarship opportunities, including need-based scholarships, fellowships, and external funding options. These scholarships aim to support diverse, high-achieving individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and financial need.

This guide outlines the key MBA scholarship opportunities at Harvard Business School for international students in 2025, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and essential tips for a successful application.

Overview of Financial Aid at Harvard Business School

Harvard Business School primarily offers need-based financial aid to MBA students, including international students. The school’s approach to funding focuses on assessing each applicant’s financial situation to determine their level of need. There are no merit-based scholarships, as HBS believes in making the program accessible to anyone with demonstrated financial need.

Key Features of HBS Financial Aid

1. Need-Based Scholarships: Awards are determined by the applicant’s financial need rather than academic or extracurricular achievements.
2. Loan-Free Policy: HBS aims to provide substantial grant-based scholarships to reduce the need for student loans.
3. Fellowships for Special Groups: HBS offers several fellowships for students with specific backgrounds, interests, or career goals.
4. External Funding Opportunities: In addition to HBS’s scholarships, students can explore external scholarships and sponsorships to help fund their studies.

Types of HBS Scholarships for International Students

1. HBS Need-Based Fellowships

The HBS Need-Based Fellowship is the primary financial aid option for international MBA students. Harvard Business School awards need-based fellowships to approximately 50% of its MBA students, providing financial assistance to those with demonstrated need.

• Eligibility: Based on demonstrated financial need, assessed through the financial aid application process. Open to all admitted MBA students, including international applicants.
• Award Amount: Awards typically range from $15,000 to $40,000 per year, renewable for two years, depending on the level of financial need.
• Application Process:
  1. Complete the MBA Admissions Process: You must first apply to and be admitted to the HBS MBA program.
  2. Submit the Financial Aid Application: After receiving an offer of admission, submit the HBS Financial Aid Application through the online portal, providing documentation of financial need.
  3. Financial Review: The Financial Aid Office will review your application to determine your need-based fellowship amount.

2. The Social Enterprise Fellowship

The HBS Social Enterprise Fellowship is designed for MBA graduates who pursue careers in social enterprise. It provides debt relief to graduates who work in public or nonprofit sectors or organizations focused on social impact.

• Eligibility: Open to HBS graduates in full-time employment with nonprofit, public, or social enterprises within three years of graduation.
• Award Amount: Variable, with maximum award amounts set annually based on the program’s budget.
• Application Process: Alumni apply for the fellowship within three years of graduation by submitting details about their employment and financial need.

3. The Forward Fellowship

The Forward Fellowship is a unique program aimed at supporting MBA students who may need extra financial assistance due to the unique financial circumstances of their families. It helps students who may otherwise face financial barriers due to family obligations.

• Eligibility: Open to MBA students with significant family financial responsibilities, including supporting siblings, parents, or extended family.
• Award Amount: Awards vary based on demonstrated need and family circumstances.
• Application Process: Forward Fellowship applicants complete a specific financial aid application after admission to the MBA program, outlining their family obligations.

4. The Robert S. Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship

The Kaplan Life Sciences Fellowship supports MBA students from life sciences backgrounds who are committed to making an impact in the field. While not exclusive to international students, it is open to all applicants in the life sciences sector.

• Eligibility: MBA students with professional experience in the life sciences, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
• Award Amount: $20,000 for up to ten fellows each year.
• Application Process: Applicants do not need to submit a separate application for this fellowship. Eligible students are selected by HBS based on their application materials.

5. External and Private Scholarships

HBS encourages students to pursue external scholarships to supplement their financial aid. Some scholarships specifically cater to international students or those pursuing an MBA in the U.S., such as:

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program: Supports international students studying in the U.S.
• Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program: Provides funding for students from World Bank member developing countries.
• P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship: Available to women from outside the U.S. pursuing graduate studies.

6. Employer Sponsorship and Loans

For students who have previously worked with multinational companies or organizations, employer sponsorships or fellowships may be an option. Additionally, HBS partners with lenders to provide loan options that may include favorable terms for international students.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Financial Aid at HBS

Step 1: Apply for Admission to Harvard Business School

To be eligible for any HBS financial aid or fellowship, you must first apply for and be accepted into the HBS MBA program. The admissions process includes:

1. Completing the Online Application: Submit your MBA application, including your resume, transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, essays, and recommendation letters.
2. Interview Process: If selected, you will be invited to interview as part of the admissions evaluation.

Step 2: Submit the Financial Aid Application

Once admitted, you can submit a financial aid application to determine your eligibility for need-based fellowships.

1. Access the HBS Financial Aid Portal: After admission, log in to the financial aid portal, which provides access to the HBS Need-Based Fellowship application.
2. Complete the Financial Aid Application: Submit information about your personal and family finances, including income, assets, and obligations.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide documentation, such as tax returns or income statements, to verify your financial situation.

Step 3: Apply for Specific Fellowships (if applicable)

If you are interested in specific fellowships, such as the Forward Fellowship, you may need to complete an additional application. Check the financial aid portal or contact the HBS Financial Aid Office for specific fellowship application requirements.

Step 4: Explore External Scholarship Options

In addition to HBS fellowships, consider applying for external scholarships to help fund your MBA. Start researching external scholarship opportunities early, as some have unique requirements and deadlines.

Step 5: Review and Accept Your Financial Aid Package

Once your financial aid application is processed, HBS will provide you with a financial aid package that details your fellowship award, expected family contribution, and other funding options. Review the terms of your award, and if you have questions, consult with the Financial Aid Office.

Tips for a Successful Financial Aid Application

1. Be Transparent About Financial Need: Accurately disclose all financial information, including income, assets, and obligations, in your financial aid application to ensure an appropriate award amount.
2. Apply Early for External Scholarships: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so start researching and applying as soon as possible.
3. Consider Employer Sponsorships: If you’re currently employed, check with your employer to see if they offer MBA sponsorships or tuition reimbursement programs.
4. Research Loan Options Carefully: While HBS’s fellowship support is generous, some students may still need loans. Compare loan options, especially those with favorable terms for international students.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HBS Scholarships for International Students

1. Does Harvard Business School offer full scholarships for international students?

HBS provides need-based fellowships that can cover a significant portion of tuition but generally do not cover 100% of costs. Most international students combine fellowship awards with personal savings, external scholarships, or loans.

2. Are MBA scholarships at HBS merit-based?

No, HBS scholarships are need-based rather than merit-based. Financial aid awards are determined solely based on demonstrated financial need.

3. Can international students qualify for HBS’s need-based fellowships?

Yes, international students are eligible for need-based fellowships at HBS. HBS evaluates all admitted students’ financial needs equally, regardless of nationality.

4. How competitive is the Social Enterprise Fellowship?

The Social Enterprise Fellowship is competitive and open to HBS alumni pursuing impactful careers in the nonprofit or public sector. Applicants are assessed based on their commitment to social change and financial need.

5. What additional resources are available for international students at HBS?

In addition to HBS’s fellowships, international students can explore external scholarships and loan options. The Financial Aid Office also provides guidance on navigating financial aid as an international student.

Conclusion

Harvard Business School offers substantial financial aid to make an MBA accessible for talented students worldwide. With need-based fellowships, special fellowships like the Forward and Social Enterprise Fellowships, and external scholarships, HBS supports a diverse and financially inclusive student body. By understanding the financial aid process, completing all application requirements, and exploring external funding sources, international students can make an HBS MBA more affordable and focus on achieving their academic and career aspirations.