What is the application fee for Harvard University and can it be waived?

Harvard University currently charges a $85 application fee when you submit your application. This is standard for both the Common Application and the Coalition Application, so you’ll see the fee listed in either portal.

If paying this fee is a burden, Harvard is very transparent about offering fee waivers. In fact, the application fee should never stop you from applying. Harvard specifically encourages students with financial need to request a waiver. You can do this directly through the Common App or Coalition App by indicating that you qualify for a fee waiver and selecting the reason that applies (for instance, if you qualify for free or reduced lunch, receive public assistance, or meet other criteria listed on the application).

After you check the waiver box, you will either be approved immediately (based on your answer) or the admissions office might reach out for a bit more information, but this is rare. Harvard will not penalize you in any way for requesting a fee waiver. In fact, they state that applying for a waiver doesn’t affect admissions decisions at all.