U.S. immigration updates: A federal court has granted Harvard’s motion for a temporary restraining order halting enforcement of the June 4 presidential proclamation while our case proceeds. The court also extended its previous order, stopping the federal government from revoking Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification. A hearing has been scheduled for June 16.
At Harvard Extension School, we understand that excellence doesn’t fit into a box any more than you do.
That’s why we created more than one way to get a Harvard education. Thanks to our open enrollment process, your first step is just to register for your first course — whether you’re planning to pursue a certificate or degree, or just want to learn for learning’s sake.
Need help understanding which program would best fit your life?
| Programs | Admissions Process | Courses Required | Course Formats | Time to Completion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Course Only | Open Enrollment | — | Online or On-Campus | 3 to 15 weeks, depending on term |
| Microcertificates | Open Enrollment | 2 | Online | 1 year |
| Certificates | Open Enrollment | 3–4* | Online | 2 to 3 years |
| Degree Program | Earn Your Way In | 12 | Online with Required On-Campus Experience | 3 to 5 years |
| Premedical Program | Application | Customizable | Online and On-Campus | 1 to 2 years |
*Exact number of courses varies depending on the specific program you select.
Our tuition rate is calculated by credit, and a majority of courses are four credits. Total tuition costs will depend on the number of credits necessary to complete your desired program.
Interested in taking a course or earning a certificate? You only need to meet enrollment requirements — no application required.
Planning to pursue a degree? To begin, you’ll complete two or three open enrollment degree courses to showcase your ability to succeed in the program. Then, you apply for your desired program to earn your admission.
Your journey at Harvard Extension School varies depending on what program you’re interested in.
Once you’ve decided how you want to study here, follow the steps outlined below to learn about registration.
My advice to anyone considering HES is simple: Just start! Whether it’s one class or a full program, taking action is the best way to discover what is possible.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Sustainability, ’24
Before you start the process of registering for your first course, you’ll want to decide when you want to begin.
| I want to study in… | Term | Registration opens in… |
|---|---|---|
| September–December | Fall | July |
| Early January–Late January | January | November |
| Late January–May | Spring | November |
| June–August (3, 4, or 7 weeks) | Summer | March |
When you can register may depend upon:
Course availability. Courses are available during the fall, spring, January, and summer sessions. If you’re pursuing a degree, check when required admission courses are offered.
Degree Seekers: Find Your Courses for Admission
International student status. There are several factors you’ll want to take into account as an international student, such as how you want to study and whether you will need a visa.
Enrollment requirements. Some courses require you to pass the Test of Critical Reading and Writing Skills (CRWS) in order to register. We recommend taking this test before registration begins to ensure your score is ready before registration closes.
If English is not your first language, you must first provide proof of English proficiency before taking the CRWS test.
If you are planning to complete a degree or certificate, the total cost of completion will depend on how many courses are required.
Options for paying for courses include:
Degree Seekers: More Funding Options
After you earn your way into your degree program, you may apply for financial aid. U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens who demonstrate sufficient financial need generally receive HES-supported grant funds to cover a portion of their tuition costs each term in addition to conventional federal financial aid options.
HES had an immediate impact on my career. I customized my coursework to fill knowledge gaps and apply new skills in real time.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Management, ’24
Graduate Certificates in Business Communications and Strategic Management
