K-12 Programs

Bring the museum to your students through frameworks-oriented programs! Each program is taught by a museum educator.

Schedule a K-12 program

Available Programs

We require at least 2 weeks' notice to schedule a K-12 class. Reservations for the 2026-2027 school year will open June 1.

New fees as of July 1, 2026

  • $100 per program plus $10 museum admission for each student.

  • One chaperone per five students admitted free

  • $10.00 per additional adult chaperone


Current fees through June 30, 2026

  • $250 for up to 25 students (includes admission to museum galleries)
  • $10 each additional student.
  • One chaperone per five students admitted free
  • $10.00 per additional adult chaperone

    Please note: One chaperone per five students is required for grades K-8. Contact us at hmnhreserve@hmsc.harvard.edu about requirements for older students.

    K-12 programs are scheduled from September through June, Monday–Friday.
    Programs are typically taught 9:30 am–1:30 pm.

    Program capacity: 50 students, unless otherwise noted.

    Programs run 45 min–1 hour unless otherwise noted.

How to Schedule a Visit

Please complete the online Reservation Request Form at least two weeks in advance to begin the reservations process. When the request has been reviewed, you will be contacted by the Education Department to complete the reservation.

Following a confirmed reservation, you will be emailed an invoice for your visit. Please review the information carefully, and be sure to contact us if anything is incorrect. The reservations desk can be reached at hmnhreserve@hmsc.harvard.edu or by calling 617-495-2341.

Payment and Attendance Policy

  • We request payment by credit card, if possible, which supports our environmental sustainability goals and reduces administrative costs.

  • Payment is due by the day of the scheduled visit. Payment in advance is welcome. Please reach out if this is not possible for your group.

  • Accepted Payment Methods: Credit Card (preferred), Cash, or Check (payable to Harvard University). Purchase Orders (PO) must be arranged with our office in advance.
  • Refunds: No refunds will be issued if your group arrives with fewer people than booked.
  • Headcount Changes: You may adjust your participant numbers up to three business days before your trip.
  • Day-of Additions: If you bring more than three (3) unexpected students or adults, they will be charged regular walk-in rates ($15 per student / $20 per adult).

Financial Aid

  • Fee reductions are available for schools with financial need. Please note if this may apply to your school in the comments/questions section of the Reservation Request Form.

Delays and Cancellations

  • Delays: If your group is running late, call (617) 495-2341 (weekdays) or (617) 495-3045 (weekends).
  • Cancellations: Notify the Education Department immediately by email hmnhreserve@hmsc.harvard.edu. Groups canceling within two weeks prior to a scheduled program will be charged the full fee.
  • Snow Emergencies: Groups forced to cancel the morning of their visit due to a snow emergency will not be charged and are welcome to reschedule.

Additional Information

  • Educators are invited to visit the museum for free in advance to develop assignments for their students’ visits. Please contact hmnhreserve@hmsc.harvard.edu to arrange your free visit.

  • Looking for a free activity to use on your visit? Try these gallery activities.