Campus ESA Policy

ESA Letters at Harvard University

Harvard University operates housing covered by the Fair Housing Act. Here is how Harvard University students request an emotional support animal in campus housing.

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Harvard University

The Accommodation Process Here

Harvard treats emotional support animals as a housing accommodation coordinated through its disability resources offices and the individual House or dorm administration. Students provide clinical documentation, and approvals are specific to the student's residence.

Where requests go: University Disability Resources / Accessible Education Office

Insider tip: Harvard's House system means your resident dean is part of the conversation; loop them in early once your documentation is ready.

Campus at a Glance

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Type: Private Ivy League University
Enrollment: 24,000+
Undergraduate and graduate schools each coordinate with their own housing offices
Clinical documentation from a licensed provider is required
ESAs are approved for the residence only, not dining halls or libraries
The student remains responsible for the animal's behavior and care
Requests submitted well before term start receive smoother processing

FAQs

ESAs at Harvard University: Questions

Yes. University housing is a dwelling under the Fair Housing Act, and campus disability offices run the accommodation process every semester.

About 45 days before move-in. Summer submissions clear before the fall rush; move-in week submissions join a queue.

Bringing your ESA to Harvard University?

Get documentation early and submit before move-in. Licensed evaluation, verifiable letter, refund if you do not qualify.

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