Harvard financial aid helps 70% of students there

A Forbes story makes it painfully clear that getting into Harvard University is a feat that only the most dedicated students can achieve. Tips for getting into Harvard include things like reading a top list of books for college admission, getting college counseling, taking expensive SAT Prep courses, and, if your child is a legacy, forking over some serious dough if you can't get Harvard financial aid.

With all that said, it just so happens that many students get accepted into Harvard every year who have not jumped through those hoops and are qualified due to plain old academic talent. It's a good thing, too, because most of these students could not afford the expensive prep tactics, let alone the Harvard tuition. With combined tuition, room and board, and miscellaneous fees costing $53,950-$56,750 for 2010-11 school year, Harvard financial aid is a must for students who want to get an education at a university known for breeding success.