Financial Aid Program policies are set by the Student Financial Services Committee, consisting of representatives from the faculty, student body, and administration. The staff of the Student Financial Services office implements these policies under the general direction of the Assistant Dean for Student Financial Services.
All aid programs described in this web site depend on the availability and allocation of funds to support them. The Law School reserves the right to change the terms and guidelines for the various aid programs at any time in order to make the best use of funds available.
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Cost of Attendance
The standard student budget establishes the annual limit on financial aid (grants and loans from all sources) available to each student under ordinary circumstances.
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Determination of Financial Need
Each student’s financial need is determined by subtracting family resources from the cost of attendance (or student budget) in a given academic year.
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Family Resources
Harvard Law School considers student and parent resources when determining eligibility for its need-based institutional grant and loan funds.
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Financial Aid Packages
Although financial aid packages vary in composition from one year to the next, some basic guidelines are followed each year.
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Academic Year Employment
Working during the academic year is an effective way to meet financial need while reducing your overall borrowing.
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Financial Aid for Educational Purposes
Statements regarding the use of any aid money you may receive from the federal government, within Harvard Law School itself, or the University at large.
Unique Populations
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Married Students and Students with Dependent Children
Students with spouses or dependents have more complex needs. How do we support them?
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VA and Military Benefits
Harvard Law School provides qualified post-9/11 veterans the maximum assistance available through the Department of Veterans Affairs’s education benefit programs.
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Joint Degree and Off-Campus Programs
Harvard Law School offers several joint degree and off-campus programs to pair with your J.D..
Special Circumstances
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Student Medical Expense Policies
Learn more about health insurance requirements and uninsured medical and dental expenses.
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Financial Aid Appeals and Budget Adjustments
J.D. students may appeal to SFS for a revaluation of their aid offer, student budget, or family contribution based on a change of circumstances.
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Leave of Absence
If you withdraw or take a leave of absence from Harvard Law School, you may be required to repay a portion of the financial aid that you received.