Ivy League universities’ reputation precedes their status, being regarded by many as some of the most politically and socially influential institutions across the globe. Therefore, it is only natural for students to be drawn towards the rewards that studying at these universities may offer. However, many accepted students, regardless of their assiduousness, find themselves trapped by the hefty price tag associated with attending an Ivy League school. To address this issue, Harvard announced starting in the fall of 2025, families making under $200,000 a year would be eligible for tuition assistance, empowering prospective students to break through their financial limitations and find attendance.
Harvard University President Alan Garber released a statement speaking to why he believes tuition assistance is beneficial for the culture of Harvard.
“Putting Harvard within financial reach for more individuals widens the array of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives that all of our students encounter, fostering their intellectual and personal growth,” Garber said.
With around 14.4% of households in the U.S, earning a total of over 200,000 annually, about 86% of American households are eligible for the new assistance offered. This increase in assistance provides many benefits, such as the possible impact on the culture of Ivy League schools within the U.S.
Typically perceived as ostentatious and reclusive, many view Ivy League schools as toxic, feeding off of the egos of the so-called “trust fund” students. Contrarily, Harvard offering tuition to those who are less fortunate allows them to have a larger cultural spread, opening the doors to students who come from a background of greater diversity.
While culture may sometimes be defined as simply a place of birth or ethnicity, what it represents for universities can be seen within ideas expressed by the students. It is no secret that many Harvard alumni have left the hallowed halls of the prestigious university to move onto positions that have an almost direct effect on the world around them. The diversification of culture within Harvard allows students from all sorts of demographics to graduate and have a greater chance at occupying those positions of influence.
Dean of Admissions William R. Fitzsimmons stated that Harvard knows “the most talented students come from different socioeconomic backgrounds and experiences, from every state and around the globe.” He believes that the financial aid program offered is critical to the Harvard social ecosystem. Many universities other than Harvard seem to share this sentiment, with several big-name institutions offering similar programs.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology announced last November that admitted students whose families make less than $200,000 would be allowed to attend MIT tuition-free this upcoming fall. MIT’s President Sally Kornblunt believes “the cost of college is a real concern for families across the board,” especially in the wake of rising tuition costs in the U.S. Other schools, such as the University of Michigan and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, announced the incorporation of their variations on the tuition assistance plans discussed prior — opening the door for more students who previously could not consider these prestigious colleges as an option.
Imagine a world where influential politicians, businessmen and lawyers have real-world experience with their constituents. Rather than relying on the deep-rooted political dynasties of the past, the diversification within these prestigious schools might enable the future social leaders of our country to be people that come from real working communities. Hopefully, empowering people with real-world experience who will fight to protect working-class American citizens like themselves — people whom the average constituent, regardless of affiliation, might just be able to trust.
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