Harvard University Scholarships for Graduate Students in STEM Fields: Your Complete Guide

Dreaming of pursuing a master’s or PhD in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) at Harvard University? You’re not alone! Harvard attracts brilliant minds from around the world, but the cost of graduate study can be a real concern. The good news: Harvard offers a wide range of scholarships and funding options for graduate students in STEM fields. This complete guide will walk you through eligibility, types of scholarships, application steps, and expert tips to help you stand out.

Why Apply for Harvard STEM Graduate Scholarships?

Harvard’s STEM scholarships are about more than just money. They’re about investing in your future as a scientist, engineer, or innovator. Here’s why you should apply:

• Financial Support: Many scholarships cover full tuition, living expenses, and even research costs.

• Research Opportunities: Access to world-class labs, faculty, and resources.

• Global Community: Collaborate with top students and researchers from every continent.

• Career Boost: Harvard’s name and network open doors in academia, industry, and beyond.

• Personal Growth: Develop your skills, confidence, and leadership for a lifetime.

Types of Scholarships for Harvard Graduate STEM Students

Harvard offers several types of scholarships and funding for graduate students in STEM. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) Fellowships

• Who it’s for: PhD and select master’s students in sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

• What it covers: Full tuition, health fees, and a living stipend (often for 5+ years for PhD students).

• How to get it: Most PhD offers come with guaranteed funding.

2. School-Specific Scholarships and Assistantships

Each Harvard graduate school has its own funding options:

• Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS): Offers fellowships, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships for master’s and PhD students.

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Scholarships for biostatistics, epidemiology, and other STEM-related master’s and doctoral programs.

• Harvard Medical School: Funding for biomedical sciences, bioinformatics, and related fields.

3. External and Named Fellowships

Many students apply for external funding, including:

• National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship

• Ford Foundation Fellowship

• Hertz Foundation Fellowship

• Gates Cambridge Scholarship (for graduate study in the UK, but sometimes combined with Harvard programs)

• Fulbright Foreign Student Program

• Home country government scholarships

4. Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships

Harvard and external organizations offer special scholarships for underrepresented minorities and women in STEM, such as:

• Harvard’s Office of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Fellowships

• Society of Women Engineers Scholarships

• National GEM Consortium Fellowships (for underrepresented groups in engineering and science)

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility can vary by program and scholarship, but here are the typical requirements:

• Admission to a Harvard STEM graduate program (master’s or PhD in engineering, science, math, technology, etc.)

• Academic Excellence: Strong academic record, research experience, and test scores (GRE, if required).

• Research Potential: Evidence of interest and ability in research, often demonstrated through publications, projects, or recommendations.

• English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores for non-native speakers.

• Diversity Scholarships: Some require membership in an underrepresented group or a demonstrated commitment to diversity in STEM.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Harvard STEM Graduate Scholarships

Applying for Harvard STEM scholarships is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Research Your Program and Funding Options

• Visit the website of your target Harvard graduate school (GSAS, SEAS, Chan, etc.).

• Review the scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships available.

• Make a list of deadlines and required documents.

Step 2: Prepare Your Graduate School Application

• Online Application: Complete the application for your chosen program.

• Transcripts: Official records from all post-secondary institutions.

• Test Scores: GRE (if required), TOEFL/IELTS for international students.

• Personal Statement: Explain your research interests, goals, and why you chose Harvard.

• Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 from professors or research supervisors.

• Resume/CV: Highlight academic achievements, research, and relevant experience.

Step 3: Indicate Your Interest in Funding

• On your application, check the box to be considered for fellowships and assistantships.

• Some scholarships require a separate application—read the instructions carefully.

Step 4: Apply for External Scholarships

• Research and apply for external fellowships (NSF, Ford, GEM, etc.) early—deadlines may be before Harvard’s.

• Prepare essays and recommendations tailored to each scholarship.

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents

• Double-check all requirements and submit before the deadline.

• Keep copies of everything for your records.

Step 6: Interview (If Required)

• Some programs or fellowships may require an interview. Be ready to discuss your research, goals, and fit for Harvard.

Step 7: Await Your Admission and Funding Decision

• If admitted, your offer letter will detail your scholarship, fellowship, or assistantship package.

• Review your offer and respond by the deadline.

What Documents Will You Need?

• Completed online application for your program

• Academic transcripts (translated if not in English)

• Standardized test scores (GRE, TOEFL/IELTS)

• Personal statement or research proposal

• Letters of recommendation

• Resume or CV

• Portfolio (for certain programs)

• External scholarship application materials (if applicable)

Tips for a Successful Harvard STEM Scholarship Application

• Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to gather documents and write essays.

• Show Research Passion: Clearly explain your research interests and how they align with Harvard’s faculty and resources.

• Highlight Achievements: Include awards, publications, or significant projects.

• Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know your research and academic abilities well.

• Tailor Each Application: Customize your statement and materials for each program and scholarship.

• Apply broadly: Don’t rely on one source—apply for both Harvard and external scholarships.

• Proofread Everything: Errors can hurt your chances. Double-check all materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are all STEM graduate students at Harvard fully funded?
A: Most PhD students in STEM fields receive full funding (tuition, stipend, health insurance). Master’s students may receive partial funding, fellowships, or assistantships, but this varies by program.

Q: Can international students get Harvard STEM scholarships?
A: Yes! International students are eligible for most fellowships, assistantships, and external scholarships.

Q: Do I need to apply separately for scholarships?
A: For most Harvard fellowships and assistantships, you’re automatically considered when you apply to the program. Some external scholarships require separate applications.

Q: What is the average stipend for PhD students in STEM at Harvard?
A: Stipends vary, but most range from $40,000 to $45,000 per year, plus tuition and health insurance.

Q: Can I work on campus as a graduate student?
A: Yes, many students work as teaching or research assistants as part of their funding package.

Q: What if I don’t get a scholarship?
A: Consider applying for external scholarships, assistantships, or part-time work. Contact your program’s financial aid office for advice.

Real Stories: Harvard STEM Graduate Students

Lilian from Kenya:
“I was worried about the cost of a PhD in engineering, but my admission offer included a full fellowship with a stipend. Harvard’s resources and global network have made my research possible.”

Carlos from Brazil:
“As a master’s student in computer science, I received a teaching assistantship that covered tuition and living expenses. The professors were supportive, and I gained valuable teaching experience.”

Emily from the U.S.:
“I applied for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship before applying to Harvard. When I was accepted to both, my funding was more than enough for my PhD in biology.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing Deadlines: Deadlines for graduate admissions and external fellowships can be early and strict.

• Generic Statements: Tailor your personal statement to Harvard’s unique strengths and your chosen field.

• Weak Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know your research abilities, not just your coursework.

• Ignoring External Funding: Don’t rely only on Harvard—apply for national and international fellowships too.

• Incomplete Applications: Double-check that every required document is submitted.

Additional Resources

• Harvard GSAS Fellowships & Financial Aid

• Harvard SEAS Graduate Funding

• Harvard Chan School Scholarships

• National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship

• Ford Foundation Fellowships

• Society of Women Engineers Scholarships

Conclusion: Take the Next Step Toward Your STEM Future at Harvard

Harvard University’s scholarships for graduate students in STEM fields are designed to help you focus on what matters most—your research, your growth, and your future. By following the steps in this guide, preparing a strong application, and seeking out every available funding source, you can put yourself in the best position to succeed.

Don’t let cost hold you back. Harvard and its partners are ready to invest in your potential. Start researching your program, gather your materials, and apply today. Your journey to becoming a leader in STEM could begin at Harvard.

If you have more questions or need personalized advice, reach out to Harvard’s financial aid and admissions offices. Your dream is possible, and Harvard’s scholarships are here to help you achieve it.