Although more than 20 percent of members are Harvard graduates, membership is open to people from all educational backgrounds with a keen interest in intellectual pursuits. Back to top of page . HILR is a noncredit, nondegree program. Members take courses at HILR for the pure pleasure of learning. Back to top of page .
Members come from the far reaches of New England.
Regular attendance is important and is stressed in order to foster the sense of collegiality that is central to the program. Therefore, they must demonstrate an ability to travel to classes through all normal weather conditions. Back to top of page . There is no requirement for course leadership in order to be accepted into the Institute. Members often find, however, that, after several years of class participation, they are ready to assume the responsibility of leading a study group.