Harvard Business School Need-Based Fellowships Apply Online 2026
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
- 1
**Gain Admission to the HBS MBA Program:** You must first be admitted to the Harvard Business School MBA program for the 2026-2027 academic year. The application deadlines for the 2026-2027 admissions cycle (Class of 2029) are typically in September for Round 1 and January for Round
- 2
**Access Financial Aid Application:** Once admitted, access the MBA Financial Aid Application through the HBS Intranet.
- 3
**Complete Required Forms:** - If you are a US Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). - If you are a non-US Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete the Certification of Finances Form.
- 4
**Submit Income Verification:** Provide income verification documentation from the prior three years, such as federal tax returns, W2s, or equivalent documents.
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**Provide Additional Documentation:** Submit any additional supporting documentation requested by the MBA Financial Aid office.
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**Apply for Complementary Fellowships (Optional):** If you wish to be considered for additional fellowships like the Forward Fellowship, complete the specific complementary fellowship application, which may require parent and family financial information.
FAQs for Harvard Business School Need-Based Fellowships
Q.Are Harvard Business School Need-Based Fellowships available to international students?
Yes, Harvard Business School Need-Based Fellowships are fully available to international students, just like domestic applicants. The school is committed to making its MBA program accessible to talented individuals from all backgrounds globally.
Q.Are these fellowships merit-based or need-based?
These fellowships are strictly need-based. While admission to Harvard Business School is merit-based, financial aid is awarded solely on demonstrated financial need. There are no merit-based scholarships provided directly by HBS.
Q.How is financial need determined for the fellowships?
Financial need is determined by the HBS financial aid team using a standardized formula. This formula takes into account your gross income from the three years prior to application, your assets, your socioeconomic background, and any undergraduate debt you may have. Students with higher earnings are expected to contribute a higher proportion towards their education.
Q.Can the fellowship cover the entire cost of the MBA program?
While some students with the greatest financial need (approximately 10%) can receive full tuition scholarships (covering $84,760 USD for 2026-2027), the fellowships generally do not cover the entire cost of attendance, which also includes living expenses, health insurance, and other fees. HBS typically expects a contribution from the student, and many students combine fellowships with personal savings, loans, or outside funding to cover the total cost.