Senior Gift

About Senior Gift

The mission of the Senior Gift campaign is to educate the senior class about the importance of alumni support and philanthropy. Seniors are asked to make their first contribution to the Harvard College Fund as a tangible way for them to show their appreciation for and loyalty to Harvard.  The Senior Gift program also affords students an opportunity to learn more about the Harvard College Fund and the different ways to stay involved as alumni/ae.

Seniors who support Senior Gift have the opportunity to designate their donation to one of the following funds: Unrestricted, Financial Aid, or the Dean's Fund for Undergraduate Experience.

Unrestricted

Unrestricted gifts are exactly what their name implies; funds given to Harvard without restrictions on how the money will be used.  Unrestricted funds are especially valuable because they allow Harvard to address immediate priorities and enhance programs not covered by the endowment or other sources of income.  For example, unrestricted funds support:

• Study Abroad
• Advising Programs
• Undergraduate Research
• Expansion of the Faculty
• Innovative Course Development
• Construction of New Buildings

Financial Aid

Harvard is committed to educating the best students from around the world, regardless of their economic status. Our need-based aid policy enables us to admit students based purely on their qualifications. This approach brings a talented and diverse group of students to Harvard each year, and we are one of only a few institutions of higher learning with this policy.

In 2007, Harvard College awarded more than $96 million in scholarships; overall, the University spent $339 million on financial aid.  Two thirds of all Harvard undergraduates received some form of financial aid.  International students at Harvard enjoy the same benefits of need-based financial aid as do U.S. citizens.

Owing to Harvard’s exemplary financial aid program, the median debt of a graduating Harvard student is approximately $6,750.  This is less than one third of the national median.

Dean's Fund for Undergraduate Experience

The Dean’s Fund for Undergraduate Experience supports activities that enhance the lives of undergraduates and contribute to their growth and development both inside and outside the classroom.  In 2007, this fund supported initiatives such as the new advising programs, undergraduate research and travel abroad, the development of the new Physical Sciences courses 1, 2 and 3, and the College Events Board.

Senior Gift Fact Sheet (PDF)

Senior Gift Committee Structure