Harvard’s Wealth Surpasses 120 Countries – University’s Financial Might in a League of Its Own!

Harvard is the wealthiest US university. It and other elite colleges were criticized for handling Israel-Hamas student protests. Alumni threatened to cut funding and blacklist students in antisemitic accusations.

Harvard the riches school (Photo: Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Harvard’s alumni and money affect campus policy

Wealthy alumni and a $50 billion endowment influence Harvard policies and conversations. The Israel-Hamas conflict caused Penn’s contribution withdrawals and controversy.

Harvard faculty and board supported President Claudine Gay despite Gaza’s demand. The case shows how wealthy contributors influence universities. Harvard’s fiscal year 2023 endowment dropped from $50.9 billion to $50.7 billion. The 2021 National Center for Education Statistics found Harvard had the largest U.S. endowment.

Contributions and investments are the main sources of funding for endowments. Harvard’s endowment returned 2.9% in fiscal year 2023, below its 8% projection. Financial contributions accounted for 45% of Harvard’s earnings due to wealthy alumni. Colleges like Harvard utilize endowments for operations and student assistance.

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Harvard Tuition and Financial Aid Trends

Financial assistance from Harvard President Claudine Gay exceeded $850 million in the latest report. Harvard supports low-income students and limits donations to $85,000–$150,000 at 10%.

Harvard’s $79,450 2023 tuition and fees are difficult for families under $150,000. In 1975, Harvard charged $5,350—a huge increase. The Consumer Price Index puts 1975 at $30,000. College expenditures exceed inflation nationally. President Claudine Gay earned $879,079 in 2021, while Lawrence S. Bacow received approximately $1.3 million.

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