HARRIS ASSOCIATES INVESTMENT TRUST, 497, 1997-03-04

HARRIS ASSOCIATES INVESTMENT TRUST
497, 1997-03-04

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<PAGE>

PROSPECTUS
March 1, 1997 The Oakmark
Fund

The Oakmark
Select Fund

The Oakmark
Small Cap Fund

The Oakmark
Balanced Fund

The Oakmark
International
Fund

The Oakmark
International
Small Cap Fund

Formerly The Oakmark
International Emerging
Value Fund

MEMBER OF
-----------------
100% NO-LOAD
MUTUAL FUND
COUNCIL
-----------------

Managed by
HARRIS
ASSOCIATES L.P.

OAKMARK

<PAGE>

The Oakmark Family of Funds
1997 Prospectus

Highlights........................................... 2

Shareholder Transaction Expenses..................... 3

Annual Fund Operating Expenses....................... 4

Financial Highlights................................. 6

The Funds............................................10

How the Funds Invest.................................10

Investment Techniques................................14

Risk Factors.........................................17

Restrictions on the Funds' Investments...............20

How to Purchase Shares...............................21

How to Redeem Shares.................................23

Shareholder Services.................................26

Net Asset Value......................................27

Distributions........................................28

Taxes................................................28

Management of the Funds..............................29

Trustees and Officers................................32

Performance Information..............................34

Other Information....................................35

[INSERT LOGO HERE] For More Information:
Please call 1-800-OAKMARK (1-800-625-6275).

24-Hour Net Asset Value Hotline:
To obtain the current net asset value per share
of a Fund, please call 1-800-GROWOAK (1-800-476-9625).

The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

March 1, 1997

Fund Investment Objective
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK FUND Long-Term Capital Appreciation
OAKMX The Fund invests
primarily in equity securities.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK Long-Term Capital Appreciation
SELECT FUND The Fund invests primarily in a
OAKLX non-diversified portfolio of equity securities.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK Long-Term Capital Appreciation
SMALL CAP FUND The Fund invests primarily
OAKSX in equity securities of companies with small
market capitalizations.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK High Current Income and Preservation
BALANCED FUND and Growth of Capital The Fund invests
OAKBX in a diversified portfolio of equity
and fixed-income securities.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK Long-Term Capital Appreciation
INTERNATIONAL FUND The Fund invests primarily in equity
OAKIX securities of non-U.S. issuers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE OAKMARK Long-Term Capital Appreciation
INTERNATIONAL The Fund invests primarily in equity
SMALL CAP FUND securities of non-U.S. issuers with small
OAKEX market capitalizations.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------

NO LOAD-NO SALES CHARGE, NO 12b-1 FEES
Minimum Investment Initial purchase--$1,000
Subsequent investments--$100
(see "How to Purchase Shares")

Each "Fund" is a series of Harris Associates Investment Trust. The Funds may
invest to a limited extent in high-yield, high-risk bonds and in other
securities that entail certain risks. See "Risk Factors."

This prospectus contains information you should know before investing. Please
retain it for future reference. A Statement of Additional Information regarding
the Funds dated the date of this prospectus has been filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission and (together with any supplement to it) is incorporated
by reference. The Statement of Additional Information may be obtained at no
charge by writing or telephoning the Trust at its address or telephone number
shown inside the back cover.

These securities have not been approved or disapproved by the securities and
exchange commission or any state securities commission, nor has the Securities
and Exchange Commission or any state securities commission passed upon the
accuracy or adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.

Prospectus 1
<PAGE>

HIGHLIGHTS

Harris Associates Investment Trust (the "Trust") provides investors an
opportunity to pool their money to achieve economies of scale and
diversification, and to take advantage of the professional investment expertise
of Harris Associates L.P. (the "Adviser").

The Trust currently issues shares in six series (collectively, the "Funds" and
generally, a "Fund"). Each series has distinct investment objectives and
policies, and a shareholder's interest is limited to the series in which he or
she owns shares. The six series are: The Oakmark Fund ("Oakmark Fund"), The
Oakmark Select Fund ("Select Fund"), The Oakmark Small Cap Fund ("Small Cap
Fund"), The Oakmark Balanced Fund ("Balanced Fund"), The Oakmark International
Fund ("International Fund") and The Oakmark International Small Cap Fund,
formerly named The Oakmark International Emerging Value Fund ("International
Small Cap Fund"). Each is a "no-load" fund, and there are no sales or 12b-1
charges.

The Trust is designed for long-term investors, including those who wish to use
shares of one or more series as a funding vehicle for tax-deferred retirement
plans (including tax-qualified retirement plans and Individual Retirement
Account (IRA) plans), and not for investors who intend to liquidate their
investments after a short period of time. Only Balanced Fund is intended to
present a balanced investment program between growth and income.

The chief consideration in selecting equity securities for each Fund's portfolio
is the size of the discount of market price relative to the economic value of
the security as determined by the Adviser. The Trust's investment philosophy is
predicated on the belief that over time market price and value converge and that
investment in securities priced significantly below long-term value presents the
best opportunity to achieve long-term capital appreciation.

Oakmark Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities.

Select Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in a
non-diversified portfolio of equity securities.

Small Cap Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities of companies with small market capitalizations.

Balanced Fund seeks high current income and preservation and growth of capital
by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity and fixed-income securities.

International Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily
in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers.

2 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Risks
The Funds are intended for long-term investors who can accept fluctuations in
value and other risks associated with seeking the investment objectives of the
respective Funds through investments in the types of securities in which the
Funds may invest. You should understand and consider carefully the risks
involved in a Fund before investing in that Fund. See "Risk Factors" for a more
detailed discussion.

Purchases

The minimum initial investment for each Fund is $1,000; each additional
investment must be at least $100. Shares may be purchased by check, by wire
transfer, by electronic transfer or by exchange. See "How to Purchase Shares."

Redemptions

For information on redeeming Fund shares, see "How to Redeem Shares."

Net Asset Value

The purchase and redemption price of a Fund's shares is the net asset value per
share. The net asset value is determined as of the close of regular session
trading on the New York Stock Exchange. See "Net Asset Value."

Adviser

Harris Associates L.P. (the "Adviser") provides management and investment
advisory services to the Funds. See "Management of the Funds."

SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
All Funds
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Commission to purchase shares (sales load) None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commission to reinvest dividends None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred sales load None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Redemption fee None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee to exchange shares None
</TABLE>

* If you request payment of redemption proceeds by wire transfer, you must pay
the cost of the wire transfer (currently $5).

Prospectus 3
<PAGE>

ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (as a percentage of net assets)

The following table is intended to help you understand the costs and expenses
that an investor in the Funds may bear directly or indirectly. For a more
complete explanation of the fees and expenses borne by the Funds, see the
discussions under the prospectus headings "How to Purchase Shares" and
"Management of the Funds", as well as the Statement of Additional Information
incorporated by reference into this prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Small Int'l
Oakmark Select Cap Balanced Int'l Small Cap
Fund Fund(a) Fund Fund Fund Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Investment
management fees 1.00% 1.00% 1.25% .75% 1.00% 1.25%

12b-1 fees None None None None None None

Other expenses (after
reimbursement of
certain expenses)(b) .18 .41 .25 .75 .32 .75
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Fund operating
expenses (after
reimbursement of
certain expenses)(b) 1.18% 1.41% 1.50% 1.50% 1.32% 2.00%
</TABLE>

(a) Select Fund pays the Adviser an investment management fee at the annual rate
of 1% of its average net assets. Because it has no operating history, its
other expenses reflected in the table have been estimated.

(b) In the case of Small Cap, Balanced and International Small Cap Funds, the
percentages shown have been computed giving effect to the Adviser's
agreement to limit the Fund's ordinary operating expenses. See "Management
of the Funds." Absent that limitation, the "Other Expenses" and "Total Fund
Operating Expenses" of Small Cap Fund, Balanced Fund and International Small
Cap Fund would be .36% and 1.61%, 1.89% and 2.64% and 1.40% and 2.65%,
respectively.

4 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

The following example illustrates the expenses that you would pay on a $1,000
investment in each Fund over various time periods assuming (1) a 5% annual rate
of return, (2) the operating expense percentages listed in the table above
remain the same through each of the periods, (3) reinvestment of all dividends
and capital gain distributions, and (4) redemption at the end of each time
period.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

1 year 3 years 5 years 10 years
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Oakmark Fund $12 $37 $ 65 $143
Select Fund 14 45 77 169
Small Cap Fund 15 47 82 179
Balanced Fund 15 47 82 179
International Fund 13 42 72 159
International Small Cap Fund 20 63 108 233
</TABLE>

This example should not be considered a representation of past or future
expenses or performance. Actual expenses may be greater or less than those
shown.

Prospectus 5
<PAGE>

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The tables below for Oakmark Fund, Small Cap Fund, Balanced Fund, International
Fund and International Small Cap Fund reflect the results of the operations for
a share outstanding throughout the periods shown and have been audited by Arthur
Andersen LLP, independent public accountants. As of October 31, 1996 Select Fund
had not commenced operations. These tables should be read in conjunction with
the Funds' financial statements and notes thereto, which may be obtained from
the Trust upon request without charge.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Oakmark Fund
Year Ended October 31,
---------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 (a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net Asset Value,
beginning of period $28.47 $25.21 $24.18 $17.11 $12.10 $10.00
Income from investment operations:
Net investment
income (loss) .34 .30 .27 .17 (.03) (.01)
Net gains or losses
on securities (both
realized and
unrealized) 4.70 4.66 1.76 7.15 5.04 2.11
Total from investment
operations 5.04 4.96 2.03 7.32 5.01 2.10
Less distributions:
Dividends (from net
investment income) (.28) (.23) ( .23) (.04) -- --
Distributions (from
capital gains) (.84) (1.47) ( .77) (.21) -- --
Total distributions (1.12) (1.70) (1.00) (.25) -- --
Net asset value,
end of period $32.39 $28.47 $25.21 $24.18 $17.11 $12.10
Total return 18.07% 21.55% 8.77% 43.21% 41.40% 87.10%
</TABLE>

6 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Oakmark Fund cont'd

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 (a)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Ratios/supplemental data:
Net assets, end of
period ($ million) $3,933.9 $2,827.1 $1,677.3 $1,107.0 $114.7 $4.8
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses to
average net assets 1.18%* 1.17% 1.22% 1.32% 1.70% 2.50%(b)*
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net income
(loss) to average
net assets 1.13%* 1.27% 1.19% .94% (.24)% (.66%)(c)*
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 23.7% 18% 29% 18% 34% 0%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average commission
paid(d) $ .0530
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

- ------------------------------
*Ratios for the period have been determined on an annualized basis.

(a) From August 5, 1991, the date on which Fund shares were first offered for
sale to the public.

(b) If the Fund had paid all of its expenses and there had been no
reimbursement by the Adviser, this annualized ratio would have been 4.92%
for the period.

(d) For fiscal years beginning on or after September 1, 1995, a fund is
required to disclose its average commission rate per share for security
trades on which commissions are charged. This amount may vary from period
to period and fund to fund depending on the mix of trades executed in
various markets where trading practices and commission rate structures may
differ.

Prospectus 7

7
<PAGE>

International Fund
Year Ended October 31,
----------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994 1993 1992(a)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 12.97 $ 14.50 $ 14.09 $ 9.80 $ 10.00
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
Net investment income .09 .30 .21 .06 .26
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net gains or losses on securities
(both realized and unrealized) 2.90 (.77) .43 4.48 (.46)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.99 (.47) .64 4.54 (.20)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends (from net investment income) .00 -- (.08) (.25) --
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distributions (from capital gains) (1.04) (1.06) (.15) -- --
-------- ------- ------- ------ -------
Total distributions (1.04) (1.06) (.23) (.25) --
-------- ------- ------- ------ -------
Net asset value, end of period $ 14.92 $ 12.97 $ 14.50 $ 14.09 $ 9.80
-------- ------- ------- ------ -------
Total return 24.90% (3.06)% 4.62% 47.49% (22.81)%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios/supplemental data:
Net assets, end of period
($ million) $1,172.8 $819.7 $1,286.0 $815.4 $ 23.5
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses 1.32% 1.40% 1.37% 1.26% 2.04%*
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net income (loss)
to average net assets 1.45% 1.40% 1.44% 1.55% 37.02%*
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 42% 26% 55% 21% 0%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average commission rate paid(b) $ .0158
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- ----------------------------------------------
*Ratios for the period have been determined on an annualized basis.

(a) From September 30, 1992, the date on which Fund shares were first offered
for sale to the public.

(b) For fiscal years beginning on or after September 1, 1995, a fund is
required to disclose its average commission rate per share for security
trades on which commissions are charged. This amount may vary from period
to period and fund to fund depending on the mix of trades executed in
various markets where trading practices and commission rate structures may
differ.

8 The Oakmark family of funds

<PAGE>

Small Cap Fund, Balanced Fund and
International Small Cap Fund
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
-------------------------------------------------------
Small International
Cap Balanced Small Cap
Fund Fund Fund(b)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.00 $10.00 $10.00

Income from investment operations:
Net investment income (.02) .10 .04

Net gains or losses on securities
(both realized and unrealized) 3.21 1.19 1.37
------- ------ ------

Total from investment operations 3.19 1.29 1.41

Less distributions:

Dividends (from net investment
income) .00 .00 .00

Distributions (from capital gains) .00 .00 .00

Total distributions .00 .00 .00

Net asset value, end of period $13.19 $11.29 $11.41

Total return 31.94% 12.91% 14.15%

Ratios/supplemental data:
Net assets, end of period
($ million) $218.4 $ 13.8 $ 39.8

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets 1.61% 2.50%(a) 2.50%(a)

Ratio of net income (loss)
to average net assets (.29)% 1.21%(a) .65%(a)

Portfolio turnover rate 23.15% 66.35% 27.44%

Average brokerage commission
paid per share $.0520 $.0581 $.0036
</TABLE>
(a) If Balanced Fund and International Small Cap Fund had paid all of their
expenses and there had been no reimbursement by the investment adviser,
their ratios of expenses to average net assets would have been 2.64% and
2.65%, respectively, and their ratios of net income to average net assets
would have been 1.08% and .50%, respectively. Commencing March 1, 1997 the
Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reimburse each Fund to the extent that the
Fund's annual ordinary operating expenses exceed 1.50% in the case of Small
Cap Fund and Balanced Fund, and 2.0% in the case of International Small Cap
Fund, of the Fund's average net assets through October 31, 1998, subject to
earlier termination by the Adviser on 30 days notice to the Fund.
(b) Formerly named Oakmark International Emerging Value Fund.

Prospectus 9
<PAGE>

THE FUNDS

The mutual funds offered by this prospectus are Oakmark Fund, Select Fund, Small
Cap Fund, Balanced Fund, International Fund and International Small Cap Fund.
Each of the Funds is a no-load "mutual fund" and, except for Select Fund, is a
diversified Fund. No Fund imposes any commission or charge when shares are
purchased, nor bears any 12b-1 charges.

The Funds are series of Harris Associates Investment Trust (the "Trust"), which
is authorized to issue shares in separate series. Each series is a separate
portfolio of securities and other assets, with its own investment objective and
policies.

Harris Associates L.P. (the "Adviser") provides investment advisory and
administrative services to the Funds.

How the Funds Invest
The chief consideration in the selection of equity securities for each Fund is
the size of the discount of market price relative to the economic value, or
underlying value, of the security as determined by the Adviser. The economic or
underlying value of a security generally represents the per share net present
value of the issuer's estimated long-term cash flows. The Funds may also employ
the techniques described below under "Investment Techniques."

Oakmark Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities. Although income is considered in the selection of securities,
the Fund is not designed for investors whose primary investment objective is
income.

The Fund invests principally in securities of U.S. issuers. However, it may
invest up to 25% of its total assets (valued at the time of investment) in
securities of non-U.S. issuers, including foreign government obligations and
foreign equity and debt securities that are traded over-the-counter or on
foreign exchanges. There are no geographic limits on the Fund's foreign
investments, but the Fund does not expect to invest more than 5% of its assets
in securities of issuers based in emerging markets. See "Risk Factors--
International Investing" below.

Select Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in a
non-diversified portfolio of equity securities.

As a "non-diversified" fund, the Fund is not limited under the Investment
Company Act of 1940 in the percentage of its assets that it may invest in any
one issuer. See "Risk Factors--Non-diversification of Select Fund."

10 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Small Cap Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 65%
of its total assets, valued at the time of investment, in "small cap companies,"
as defined below under "How the Funds Invest-Small Cap Companies." Although
income is considered in the selection of securities, the Fund is not designed
for investors whose primary investment objective is income.

At January 31, 1997 the median market capitalization of the Fund's portfolio was
$405 million. See "How the Funds Invest-Median Market Capitalization" below.

Balanced Fund seeks high current income and preservation and growth of capital
by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity and fixed-income securities.
The Fund is intended to present a balanced investment program between growth and
income. It generally invests approximately 50--65% of its total assets in equity
securities, including securities convertible into equity securities, 25--50% of
its assets in U.S. Government securities and debt securities rated at time of
purchase within the two highest grades assigned by Moody's Investors Service,
Inc. ("Moody's") (Aaa or Aa) or by Standard & Poor's Corporation ("S&P") (AAA or
AA), and up to 20% in unrated or lower rated debt securities (measured at market
value at the time of investment).

The Fund invests principally in securities of U.S. issuers. However, it may
invest up to 10% of its total assets (valued at the time of investment) in
securities of non-U.S. issuers, including foreign government obligations and
foreign equity and debt securities that are traded over-the-counter or on
foreign exchanges. The Fund has no geographic limits on its foreign investments,
but the Fund does not expect to invest more than 5% of its assets in securities
of issuers based in emerging markets. See "Risk Factors-International Investing"
below.

International Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily
in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers. Although income is considered in the
selection of securities, the Fund is not designed for investors whose primary
investment objective is income.

Prospectus 11
<PAGE>

investment opportunity. The Fund may invest in securities traded in mature
markets (for example, Japan, Canada and the United Kingdom), in less developed
markets (for example, Mexico and Thailand), and in selected emerging markets
(such as Peru and India). Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers,
especially those traded in less developed or emerging markets, present
additional risk. There are no limits on the Fund's geographic asset
distribution, but, to provide adequate diversification, the Fund ordinarily
invests in the securities markets of at least five countries outside the United
States. See "Risk Factors-International Investing" below.

Some foreign governments have been engaged in programs of selling part or all of
their stakes in government owned or controlled enterprises ("privatizations").
The Adviser believes that privatizations may offer opportunities for significant
capital appreciation, and intends to invest assets of the Fund in privatizations
in appropriate circumstances. In certain of those markets, the ability of
foreign entities such as the Fund to participate in privatizations may be
limited by local law and/or the terms on which the Fund may be permitted to
participate may be less advantageous than those afforded local investors. There
can be no assurance that governments will continue to sell companies currently
owned or controlled by them or that privatization programs will be successful.

The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common and preferred
stocks and warrants or other similar rights and convertible securities. The Fund
may purchase securities of non-U.S. issuers directly or in the form of American
Depositary Receipts (ADRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs), Global
Depositary Receipts (GDRs), or other securities representing underlying shares
of non-U.S. issuers. Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least
65% of its total assets, valued at the time of investment, in securities of non-
U.S. issuers.

International Small Cap Fund (formerly named The Oakmark International Emerging
Value Fund) seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities of non-U.S. issuers with small market capitalizations. Under
normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets,
valued at the time of investment, in "small cap companies," as defined below
under "How the Funds Invest-Small Cap Companies." Although income is considered
in the selection of securities, the Fund is not designed for investors whose
primary investment objective is income.

The Adviser considers the relative political and economic stability of the
issuer's home country, the ownership structure of the company, and the company's
accounting practices in evaluating the potential rewards and risks of an
investment opportunity. The Fund invests in securities traded in both developed
and emerging markets. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers, especially
those traded in less developed or emerging markets, present additional risks.
There are no limits on the Fund's geographic asset distribution, but, to

12 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

provide adequate diversification, the Fund ordinarily invests in the securities
markets of at least five countries outside the United States. See "Risk Factors-
International Investing" below.

The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common and preferred
stocks and warrants or other similar rights and convertible securities. The Fund
may purchase securities of non-U.S. issuers directly or in the form of ADRs,
EDRs, GDRs, or other securities representing underlying shares of non-U.S.
issuers.

At January 31, 1997 the median market capitalization of the Fund's portfolio was
$227 million. See "How the Funds Invest-Median Market Capitalization" below.

Under normal market conditions, each Fund expects to be substantially fully
invested in the types of securities described in the preceding paragraphs.
Within the limitations described in this prospectus, the percentages of Fund
assets invested in various types of securities will vary in accordance with the
judgment of the Adviser. To the extent that investments meeting a Fund's
criteria for investment are not available, or when the Adviser considers a
temporary defensive posture advisable, the Fund may invest without limitation in
high-quality corporate debt obligations of U.S. companies or U.S. government
obligations, or may hold cash in domestic or foreign currencies or invest in
domestic or foreign money market securities.

In seeking to achieve its investment objective, each Fund ordinarily invests on
a long-term basis, but on occasion may also invest on a short-term basis (for
example, where short-term perceptions have created a significant gap between
price and value). Occasionally, securities purchased on a long-term basis may be
sold within 12 months after purchase in light of a change in the circumstances
of a particular company or industry or in general market or economic conditions.

Small Cap Companies. As used in this prospectus a "small cap company" is one
whose market capitalization is no larger than the largest market capitalization
of the companies included in the S&P Small Cap 600 Index (the "S&P Index") as
most recently reported. The market capitalization of a company is the total
market value of its outstanding

Prospectus 13
<PAGE>

common stock. The S&P Index is a broad index of 600 small capitalization
companies. As of January 31, 1997 the largest market capitalization of companies
included in the S&P Index was $2.68 billion.

Median Market Capitalization. The "median market capitalization" of the
portfolio of Small Cap Fund or of International Small Cap Fund stated above is a
measure of the size of the companies in which the Fund invests. One-half of the
Fund's equity investments as of the stated date were in securities of companies
with market capitalizations at or above the stated median market capitalization
of the Fund's portfolio.

Investment Techniques

Equity Securities. The equity securities in which each Fund may invest include
common and preferred stocks and warrants or other similar rights and convertible
securities. The chief consideration in the selection of equity securities for
each Fund is the size of the discount of market price relative to the economic
value of the security as determined by the Adviser. The Adviser's investment
philosophy for those investments is predicated on the belief that over time
market price and value converge and that investment in securities priced
significantly below long-term value presents the best opportunity to achieve
long-term capital appreciation.

The Adviser uses several qualitative and quantitative methods in analyzing
economic value, but considers the primary determinant of value to be the
enterprise's long-run ability to generate cash for its owners. Once the Adviser
has determined that a security is undervalued, the Adviser will consider it for
purchase by a Fund, taking into account the quality and motivation of the
management, the firm's market position within its industry and its degree of
pricing power. The Adviser believes that the risks of equity investing are often
reduced if management's interests are strongly aligned with the interests of its
stockholders.

Debt Securities. Each Fund may invest in debt securities of both governmental
and corporate issuers. Each of Oakmark Fund, Select Fund and Small Cap Fund may
invest up to 25% of its assets, Balanced Fund may invest up to 20% of its
assets, and International Fund and International Small Cap Fund may invest up to
10% of its assets (valued at the time of investment), in debt securities that
are rated below investment grade, without a minimum rating requirement. Lower-
grade debt securities (commonly called "junk bonds") are obligations of issuers
rated BB or lower by S&P or Ba or lower by Moody's. Lower-grade debt securities
are considered speculative and may be in poor standing or actually in default.
Medium-grade debt securities are those rated BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's.
Securities so rated are considered to have speculative characteristics. See
"Risk Factors." A description of the ratings used by S&P and Moody's is included
as an appendix to the Statement of Additional Information.

14 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Short Sales against the Box. Each Fund may sell short securities the Fund owns
or has the right to acquire without further consideration, a technique called
selling short "against the box." Short sales against the box may protect the
Fund against the risk of losses in the value of its portfolio securities because
any unrealized losses with respect to such securities should be wholly or
partially offset by a corresponding gain in the short position. However, any
potential gains in such securities should be wholly or partially offset by a
corresponding loss in the short position. Short sales against the box may be
used to lock in a profit on a security when, for tax reasons or otherwise, the
Adviser does not want to sell the security. The Trust does not currently expect
that more than 20% of any Fund's total assets would be involved in short sales
against the box. For a more complete explanation, please refer to the Statement
of Additional Information.

Currency Exchange Transactions. Each Fund may engage in currency exchange
transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate for purchasing
or selling currency prevailing in the foreign exchange market or through a
forward currency exchange contract ("forward contract"). A forward contract is
an agreement to purchase or sell a specified currency at a specified future date
(or within a specified time period) and price set at the time of the contract.
Forward contracts are usually entered into with banks and broker-dealers, are
not exchange-traded and are usually for less than one year, but may be renewed.

Forward currency transactions may involve currencies of the different countries
in which a Fund may invest, and serve as hedges against possible variations in
the exchange rate between these currencies. The Funds' forward currency
transactions are limited to transaction hedging and portfolio hedging involving
either specific transactions or actual or anticipated portfolio positions.
Transaction hedging is the purchase or sale of a forward contract with respect
to a specific receivable or payable of a Fund accruing in connection with the
purchase or sale of portfolio securities. Portfolio hedging is the use of a
forward contract with respect to an actual or anticipated portfolio security
position denominated or quoted in a particular currency. Each Fund may engage in
portfolio hedging with respect to the currency of a particular country in
amounts approximating actual or anticipated positions in securities denominated
in such currency. When a Fund owns or anticipates owning securities in countries
whose currencies are linked, the Adviser may aggregate such positions as to the
currency hedged. Although forward contracts may be used to protect a Fund from
adverse currency movements, the use of such hedges may reduce or eliminate the
potentially positive effect of currency revaluations on the Fund's total return.

Other Investment Companies. Certain markets are closed in whole or in part to
equity investments by foreigners. A Fund may be able to invest
in such markets solely or primarily through governmentally authorized Investment
vehicles or companies. Each

Prospectus 15
<PAGE>

Fund generally may invest up to 10% of its assets in the aggregate in shares of
other investment companies and up to 5% of its assets in any one investment
company, as long as no investment represents more than 3% of the outstanding
voting stock of the acquired investment company at the time of investment.

Investment in another investment company may involve the payment of a premium
above the value of such issuers' portfolio securities, and is subject to market
availability. The Trust does not intend to invest in such vehicles or funds
unless, in the judgment of the Adviser, the potential benefits of the investment
justify the payment of any applicable premium or sales charge. As a shareholder
in an investment company, a Fund would bear its ratable share of that investment
company's expenses, including its advisory and administration fees. At the same
time the Fund would continue to pay its own management fees and other expenses.

When-Issued and Forward Commitment Securities. Each Fund may purchase securities
on a "when-issued" basis and may purchase or sell securities on a "forward
commitment" basis in order to hedge against anticipated changes in interest
rates and prices. There is a risk that the securities may not be delivered or
that they may decline in value before the settlement date.

Private Placements. Each Fund may acquire securities in private placements.
Because an active trading market may not exist for such securities, the sale of
such securities may be subject to delay and additional costs. No Fund will
purchase such a security if more than 15% of the value of such Fund's net assets
would be invested in illiquid securities.
Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund except Oakmark Fund may lend its
portfolio securities to broker-dealers and banks to the extent indicated in
restriction 5 under "Restrictions on the Funds' Investment." Any such loan must
be continuously secured by collateral in cash or cash equivalents maintained on
a current basis in an amount at least equal to the market value of the
securities loaned by a Fund. The Fund would continue to receive the equivalent
of the interest or dividends paid by the issuer on the securities loaned, and
would also receive an additional return that may be in the form of a fixed fee
or a percentage of the collateral. The Fund would have the right to call the
loan and obtain the securities loaned at any time on notice of not more than
five business days. In the event of bankruptcy or other default of the borrower,
the Fund could experience both delays in liquidating the loan collateral or
recovering the loaned securities and losses including (a) possible decline in
the value of the collateral or in the value of the securities loaned during the
period while the Fund seeks to enforce its rights thereto, (b) possible
subnormal levels of income and lack of access to income during this period, and
(c) expenses of enforcing its rights.

Options. Each Fund may purchase both call options and put options on securities.
A call or put option is a con-

16 The Oakmark family of funds

<PAGE>

tract that gives the Fund, in return for a premium paid on purchase of the
option, the right to buy from, or to sell to, the seller of the option the
security underlying the option at a specified exercise price during the term of
the option.

Cash Reserves. To meet liquidity needs or for temporary defensive purposes, each
Fund may hold cash in domestic and foreign currencies and may invest in domestic
and foreign money market securities.

Risk Factors

General. All investments, including those in mutual funds, have risks, and no
investment is suitable for all investors. Each Fund is intended for long-term
investors. Only Balanced Fund is intended to present a balanced investment
program between growth and income.

Small Cap Companies. During some periods, the securities of small cap companies,
as a class, have performed better than the securities of large companies, and in
some periods they have performed worse. Stocks of small cap companies tend to be
more volatile and less liquid than stocks of large companies. Small cap
companies, as compared to larger companies, may have a shorter history of
operations, may not have as great an ability to raise additional capital, may
have a less diversified product line making them susceptible to market pressure,
and may have a smaller public market for their shares.

International Investing. International Fund and International Small Cap Fund
provide long-term investors with an opportunity to invest a portion of their
assets in a diversified portfolio of securities of non-U.S. issuers. Each of the
other Funds may invest up to 25% (or 10% in the case of Balanced Fund) of its
assets in securities of non-U.S. issuers. International investing allows you to
achieve greater diversification and to take advantage of changes in foreign
economies and market conditions. Many foreign economies have, from time to time,
grown faster than the U.S. economy, and the returns on investments in these
countries have exceeded those of similar U.S. investments, although there can be
no assurance that these conditions will continue.

You should understand and consider carefully the greater risks involved in
investing internationally. Investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers,
positions in which are generally denominated in foreign currencies, and
utilization of forward foreign currency exchange contracts involve both
opportunities and risks not typically associated with investing in U.S.
securities. These include: fluctuations in exchange rates of foreign currencies;
possible imposition of exchange control regulation or currency restrictions that
would prevent cash from being brought back to the United States; less public
information with respect to issuers of securities; less governmental supervision
of stock exchanges, securities brokers and issuers of securities; different
accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards; different settlement
periods and trading practices; less liquidity and frequently greater price
volatility in foreign

Prospectus 17
<PAGE>

markets than in the United States; imposition of foreign taxes; and sometimes
less advantageous legal, operational and financial protections applicable to
foreign subcustodial arrangements.

Although the Funds try to invest in companies and governments of countries
having stable political environments, there is the possibility of restriction of
foreign investment, expropriation of assets, or confiscatory taxation, seizure
or nationalization of foreign bank deposits or other assets, establishment of
exchange controls, the adoption of foreign government restrictions, or other
adverse political, social or diplomatic developments that could affect
investment in these nations. Economies in individual emerging markets may differ
favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of
gross domestic product, rates of inflation, currency depreciation, capital
reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments positions. Many
emerging market countries have experienced high rates of inflation for many
years, which has had and may continue to have very negative effects on the
economies and securities markets of those countries.

The securities markets of emerging countries are substantially smaller, less
developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the
United States and other more developed countries. Disclosure and regulatory
standards in many respects are less stringent than in the U.S. and other major
markets. There also may be a lower level of monitoring and regulation of
emerging markets and the activities of investors in such markets, and
enforcement of existing regulations has been extremely limited.

Any Fund may invest in ADRs, EDRs or GDRs that are not sponsored by the issuer
of the underlying security. To the extent it does so, the Fund would probably
bear its proportionate share of the expenses of the depository and might have
greater difficulty in receiving copies of the issuer's shareholder
communications than would be the case with a sponsored ADR, EDR or GDR.

The cost of investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers is higher than the cost
of investing in U.S. securities. International Fund and International Small Cap
Fund provide an efficient way for an individual to participate in foreign
markets, but their expenses, including advisory and custody fees, are higher
than for a typical domestic equity fund.

Debt Securities. As noted above, each Fund may invest to a limited extent in
debt securities that are rated below investment grade or, if unrated, are
considered by the Fund's investment adviser to be of comparable quality. A
decline in prevailing levels of interest rates generally increases the value of
debt securities in a Fund's portfolio, while an increase in rates usually
reduces the value of those securities. As a result, to the extent that a Fund
invests in debt securities, interest rate fluctuations will affect its net asset
value, but not the income it receives from its debt securi

18 The Oakmark family of funds

<PAGE>

ties. In addition, if the debt securities contain call, prepayment or redemption
provisions, during a period of declining interest rates, those securities are
likely to be redeemed, and the Fund would probably be unable to replace them
with securities having as great a yield.

Investment in medium- or lower-grade debt securities involves greater investment
risk, including the possibility of issuer default or bankruptcy. An economic
downturn could severely disrupt this market and adversely affect the value of
outstanding bonds and the ability of the issuers to repay principal and
interest. In addition, lower-quality bonds are less sensitive to interest rate
changes than higher-quality instruments and generally are more sensitive to
adverse economic changes or individual corporate developments. During a period
of adverse economic changes, including a period of rising interest rates,
issuers of such bonds may experience difficulty in servicing their principal and
interest payment obligations.

Furthermore, medium- and lower-grade debt securities tend to be less marketable
than higher-quality debt securities because the market for them is less broad.
The market for unrated debt securities is even narrower. During periods of thin
trading in these markets, the spread between bid and asked prices is likely to
increase significantly, and the Fund may have greater difficulty selling its
portfolio securities. The market value of these securities and their liquidity
may be affected by adverse publicity and investor perceptions.

Non-diversification of Select Fund. As a "non-diversified" fund, Select Fund is
not limited under the Investment Company Act of 1940 in the percentage of its
assets that it may invest in any one issuer. However, the Fund intends to comply
with the diversification standards applicable to regulated investment companies
under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In order to meet those standards, among
other requirements, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year (a) at
least 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets must be represented by one or
more of the following: (i) cash and cash items, including receivables; (ii) U.S.
Government securities; (iii) securities of other regulated investment companies;
and (iv) securities (other than those in items (ii) and (iii) above) of any one
or more issuers as to which the Fund's investment in an issuer does not exceed
5% of the value of the Fund's total assets (valued at the time of investment);
and (b) not more than 25% of its total assets (valued at the time of investment)
may be invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government
securities or securities of other regulated investment companies).

Since Select Fund may invest more than 5% of its assets in a single portfolio
security, the appreciation or depreciation of such a security will have a
greater impact on the net asset value of the Fund, and the net asset value per
share of the Fund can be expected to fluctuate more than would the net asset
value of a comparable "diversified" fund. See Investment Restriction number 1,
below.

Prospectus

19
<PAGE>

Change in Objective. Each Fund's investment objective may be changed by the
board of trustees without shareholder approval. Shareholders would receive at
least 30 days' written notice of any change in a Fund's objective. If there is a
change in investment objective, you should consider whether the Fund remains an
appropriate investment in light of your then current financial position and
needs. There can be no assurance that any Fund will achieve its investment
objective.

Restrictions on the Funds' Investments
No Fund will:

1. [This restriction does not apply to Select Fund] In regard to 75% of its
assets, invest more than 5% of its assets (valued at the time of investment) in
securities of any one issuer, except in U.S. government obligations;

2. Acquire securities of any one issuer which at the time of investment (a)
represent more than 10% of the voting securities of the issuer, or (b) have a
value greater than 10% of the value of the outstanding securities of the issuer;

3. Borrow money except from banks for temporary or emergency purposes in amounts
not exceeding 10% of the value of the Fund's assets at the time of borrowing
[the Fund will not purchase additional securities when its borrowings, less
receivables from portfolio securities sold, exceed 5% of total assets];

4. Issue any senior security except in connection with permitted borrowings; or

5. Make loans, except that each Fund may invest in debt obligations and
repurchase agreements*, and each Fund other than Oakmark Fund may lend its
portfolio securities [a Fund will not lend securities having a value in excess
of 33% of its assets (valued at the time of any loan)].

These restrictions, except the bracketed portions and the footnote, are
"fundamental" and cannot be changed as to a Fund without the approval of a
"majority of the outstanding voting securities" of that Fund as defined in the
Investment Company Act of 1940. All of the Funds' investment restrictions,
including additional fundamental restrictions, are set forth in the Statement of
Additional Information.

*A repurchase agreement involves a sale of securities to a Fund with the
concurrent agreement of the seller (bank or securities dealer) to repurchase the
securities at the same price plus an amount equal to an agreed-upon interest
rate within a specified time. In the event of a bankruptcy or other default of a
seller of a repurchase agreement, the Fund could experience both delays in
liquidating the underlying securities and losses. No Fund may invest more than
15% of its net assets in repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days
and other illiquid securities.

The Oakmark family of funds

20
<PAGE>

HOW TO PURCHASE SHARES

You may purchase shares of any of the Funds by check, by wire transfer, by
electronic transfer or by exchange. There are no sales commissions or
underwriting discounts. The minimum initial investment for each Fund is $1,000.
Minimum subsequent investments are $100, except for reinvestments of dividends
and capital gain distributions.

By Check. To make an initial purchase of shares, complete and sign the Share
Purchase Application and mail it to the Trust's transfer agent, State Street
Bank and Trust Company, Attention: Oakmark Funds, P.O. Box 8510, Boston,
Massachusetts 02266-8510, together with a check for the total purchase amount
payable to State Street Bank and Trust Company.

To make subsequent purchases of shares, submit a check along with either the
stub from your Fund account confirmation statement or a note indicating the
amount of the purchase, your account number, and the name in which your account
is registered. The Trust will not accept cash, drafts, third party checks, or
checks drawn on banks outside of the United States. If your order to purchase
shares of a Fund is canceled because your check does not clear, you will be
responsible for any resulting loss incurred by the Fund.

By Wire Transfer. You may also purchase shares by instructing your bank to wire
transfer money to the Trust's custodian bank. Your bank may charge you a fee for
sending the wire transfer. If you are opening a new account by wire transfer,
you must first telephone the transfer agent at 1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option
2) to request an account number and furnish your social security or other tax
identication number. Neither the Funds nor the Trust will be responsible for the
consequences of delays, including delays in the banking or Federal Reserve wire
transfer systems.

By Telephone Call and Electronic Transfer. If you have an established Fund
account with an established electronic transfer privilege, you may make
subsequent purchases of shares by an electronic transfer of funds from your bank
account by calling 1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option 2). You may not open a new
account through electronic transfer. If your order to purchase shares of a Fund
is canceled because your electronic transfer does not clear, you will be
responsible for any resulting loss incurred by the Fund.

By Automatic Investment. You may authorize the monthly or quarterly purchase of
shares of a Fund for a specified dollar amount to be transferred electronically
from your bank account each month or quarter by so electing on your new account
purchase application.

By Exchange. You may purchase shares of a Fund by exchange of shares from
another Fund or by exchange of Service Units of GS Short Duration Tax-Free Fund,
a portfolio of Goldman Sachs Trust, or of ILA Service Units of Government
Portfolio or Tax-Exempt Portfolio, each a portfolio of Goldman Sachs
Institutional Liquid Assets (such

Prospectus

21
<PAGE>

Service Units and ILA Service Units are referred to as "Oakmark Units"). You may
initiate a purchase by exchange either by phone (if the telephone exchange
privilege has been established on the account from which the exchange is being
made) or by mail, or you may authorize a monthly or quarterly redemption of a
specified dollar amount of Oakmark Units to be used to purchase shares of a
Fund. An exchange transaction is a sale and purchase of shares for federal
income tax purposes and may result in capital gain or loss. Except for automatic
exchanges from Oakmark Units, you may not make more than six exchanges from any
Fund in any calendar year, and the Trust may refuse requests for more frequent
exchanges. Restrictions apply; please review the information under "How to
Redeem Shares--By Exchange."

Purchases through Intermediaries. You may purchase or redeem shares of the Funds
through certain investment dealers, banks or other institutions. Any such
purchase or redemption generally will not be effective until the order or
request is received by the Trust's transfer agent; it is the responsibility of
the dealer to transmit your order or request promptly. These institutions may
impose charges for their services. Any such charges could constitute a
substantial portion of a smaller account, and may not be in your best interest.
You may purchase or redeem shares of the Funds directly from or with the Trust
without imposition of any charges other than those described in this prospectus.

Purchase Price and Effective Date. Each purchase of a Fund's shares is made at
that Fund's net asset value (see "Net Asset Value") next determined as follows:

A purchase by check, wire transfer or electronic transfer is made at the net
asset value next determined after receipt by the Trust's transfer agent of your
check or wire transfer or your electronic transfer investment instruction.

A purchase through a dealer or finnancial institution that is an agent of the
Trust for the receipt of orders is made at the net asset value next determined
after receipt of your order by the dealer or financial institution.

General. The Trust cannot accept a purchase order specifying a particular
purchase date or price per share. Each purchase order for a Fund must be
accepted by an authorized officer of the Trust or its transfer agent and is not
binding until accepted and entered on the books of that Fund. Once your purchase
order has been accepted, you may not cancel or revoke it; however, you may
redeem the shares. The Trust reserves the right not to accept any purchase order
that it determines not to be in the best interest of the Trust or of a Fund's
shareholders. The Trust will not be responsible for any losses resulting from
unauthorized transactions initiated by telephone if it or its transfer agent
follows reasonable procedures designed to verify the identity of the caller.
Those procedures may include recording the call, requesting additional
information and sending written confir-

22 The Oakmark family of funds

<PAGE>

mation of telephone transactions. You should verify the accuracy of telephone
transactions immediately upon receipt of your confirmation statement.

How to Redeem Shares

By Mail. You may redeem all or any part of your shares of a Fund upon your
written request delivered to the Trust's transfer agent, State Street Bank and
Trust Company, Attention: Oakmark Funds, P.O. Box 8510, Boston, Massachusetts
02266-8510. Your redemption request must:

(1) identify the Fund and give your account number;

(2) specify the number of shares or dollar amount to be redeemed; and

(3) be signed in ink by all account owners exactly as their names appear on the
account.

Your request must also include a signature guarantee if any of the following
situations applies:

. your account registration has been changed within the last 30 days;

. the redemption check is to be mailed to an address different from the one on
your account (record address);

. the redemption check is to be made payable to someone other than the
registered account owner; or

. you are instructing us to transmit the proceeds to a bank account that you
have not previously designated as the recipient of such proceeds.

You should be able to obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, securities
broker-dealer, credit union (if authorized under state law), securities exchange
or association, clearing agency or savings association, but not a notary public.
The signature guarantee must include an ink-stamped guarantee for each signature
on the redemption request and must include the name of the guarantor bank or
firm and an authorized signature.

Special rules apply to redemptions by corporations, trusts and partnerships. In
the case of a corporation, the request must be signed in the name of the
corporation by an officer whose title must be stated, and must be accompanied by
a bylaw provision or resolution of the board of directors, certified within 60
days, authorizing the officer to so act. A redemption request from a partnership
or a trust must be signed in the name of the partnership or trust by a general
partner or a trustee and include a signature guarantee. If the trustee is not
named in the account registration, a redemption request by a trust must also
include evidence of the trustee's appointment as such (e.g., a certified copy of
the relevant portions of the trust instrument). Under certain circumstances,
before the shares can be redeemed, additional documents may be required in order
to verify the authority of the person seeking to redeem.

By Telephone. You may redeem shares from your account by calling 1-800-OAKMARK
(choose menu option 2). The proceeds may be sent by check to your registered
address or you may request payment by wire transfer, or by

Prospectus 23
<PAGE>

electronic transfer, to a checking account previously designated by you at a
bank that is a member of the Automated Clearing House. Redemption proceeds
payable by wire transfer or by electronic transfer will normally be sent on the
next business day after receipt of the redemption request. A redemption request
received by telephone after 4 p.m. eastern time (or after the close of regular
session trading on the New York Stock Exchange if the Exchange closes before 4
p.m.) is deemed received on the next business day. You may not redeem by
telephone shares held in an IRA account or an account for which you have changed
the address within the preceding 30 days.

By Exchange. You may redeem all or any portion of your shares of a Fund or of
Oakmark Units and use the proceeds to purchase shares of any of the other Funds
or Oakmark Units if your signed, properly completed Application is on file. An
exchange transaction is a sale and purchase of shares for federal income tax
purposes and may result in capital gain or loss. Except for automatic exchanges
from Oakmark Units, you may not make more than six exchanges from any Fund in
any calendar year, and the Trust may refuse requests for more frequent
exchanges. Before exchanging into Oakmark Units, you should obtain the
prospectus relating to the Oakmark Units from the Adviser and read it carefully.
The exchange privilege is not an offering or recommendation of Oakmark Units.
The registration of the account to which you are making an exchange must be
exactly the same as that of the account from which the exchange is made and the
amount you exchange must meet any applicable minimum investment of the fund
being purchased. An exchange may be made by following the redemption procedure
described above under "By Mail" and indicating the fund to be purchased, except
that a signature guarantee normally is not required.

You may exchange among shares of the Funds and Oakmark Units by calling
1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option 2). An exchange request received by telephone
after 4 p.m. eastern time (or after the close of regular session trading on the
New York Stock Exchange if the Exchange closes before 4 p.m.) is deemed received
on the next business day. The Trust's general redemption policies apply to
redemptions by Telephone Exchange. See "General Redemption Policies."

The Trust reserves the right at any time without prior notice to suspend or
terminate the use of the telephone exchange privilege by any person or class of
persons. The Trust believes that use of the telephone exchange privilege by
investors utilizing market-timing strategies adversely affects the Funds.
Therefore, the Trust generally will not honor requests for telephone exchanges
by shareholders identified by the Trust as "market-timers." Except for automatic
exchanges from Oakmark Units, you may not make more than six exchanges from any
Fund in any calendar year. Although the Trust will attempt to give prior notice
of a suspension or termination of

24 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

an exchange privilege when it is reasonably able to do so, the suspension or
termination may be effective immediately, thereby preventing any uncompleted
exchange. See "How to Redeem Shares-By Exchange."

During periods of volatile economic and market conditions, you may have
difficulty placing your exchange by telephone; you may wish to consider placing
your exchange by mail during such periods.

By Automatic Redemption. You may automatically redeem a fixed dollar amount of
shares each month or quarter and have the proceeds sent by check to you or
deposited by electronic transfer into your bank account by so electing on your
new account purchase application.

General Redemption Policies. You may not cancel or revoke your redemption order
once your instructions have been received and accepted. The Trust cannot accept
a redemption request that specifies a particular date or price for redemption or
any special conditions. Please telephone the transfer agent if you have any
questions about requirements for a redemption before submitting your request.
The Trust reserves the right to require a properly completed Application before
making payment for shares redeemed.

The price at which your redemption order will be executed is the net asset value
next determined after proper redemption instructions are received. See "Net
Asset Value." Because the redemption price you receive depends upon that Fund's
net asset value per share at the time of redemption, it may be more or less than
the price you originally paid for the shares and may result in a realized
capital gain or loss.

The Trust will generally mail redemption proceeds that are payable by check
within seven days after proper instructions are received. If you attempt to
redeem shares within 15 days after they have been purchased by check or
electronic transfer, the Trust may delay payment of the redemption proceeds to
you until it can verify that payment for the purchase of those shares has been
(or will be) collected. To reduce such delays, the Trust recommends that your
purchase be made by wire transfer through your bank.

If you so request, the proceeds of your redemption may be paid by wire transfer
to your bank account, provided the redemption proceeds are at least $250, but
the cost of the wire transfer (currently $5) will be deducted from the
redemption proceeds. A wire transfer will normally result in your bank account
receiving "good funds" on the business day following the date of redemption of
your shares. If the proceeds of your redemption are sent by electronic transfer,
your bank will be notified of the transfer, but your bank account will not
receive "good funds" for at least one week.

Neither the Trust, its transfer agent, nor their respective officers, trustees,
directors, employees, or agents will be responsible for the authenticity of

Prospectus 25
<PAGE>

instructions provided by telephone, nor for any loss, liability, cost or expense
for acting upon instructions furnished thereunder if they reasonably believe
that such instructions are genuine. The Funds employ procedures reasonably
designed to confirm that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine. Use
of any telephone redemption or exchange privilege authorizes the Funds and their
transfer agent to tape-record all instructions to redeem. In addition, callers
are asked to identify the account number and registration, and may be required
to provide other forms of identification. Written confirmations of transactions
are mailed promptly to the registered address; a legend on the confirmation
requests the shareholder to review the transactions and inform the Fund
immediately if there is a problem. If a Fund does not follow reasonable
procedures for protecting shareholders against loss on telephone transactions,
it may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent instructions.

The Trust reserves the right at any time without prior notice to suspend, limit,
modify or terminate any privilege or its use in any manner by any person or
class. The Trust also reserves the right to redeem shares in any account and
send the proceeds to the owner if the shares in the account do not have a value
of at least $1,000. A shareholder would be notified that the account is below
the minimum and allowed 30 days to bring the account value up to the minimum.

Shares in any account you maintain with a Fund may be redeemed to the extent
necessary to reimburse a Fund for any loss it sustains that is caused by you
(such as losses from uncollected checks and electronic transfers or any Fund
liability under the Internal Revenue Code provisions on backup withholding
relating to your account).

Shareholder Services

Reporting to Shareholders. You will receive a confirmation statement reflecting
each of your purchases and redemptions of shares of a Fund, as well as periodic
statements detailing distributions made by that Fund. Shares purchased by
reinvestment of dividends or pursuant to an automatic plan will be confirmed to
you quarterly. In addition, the Trust will send you quarterly and annual reports
showing Fund portfolio holdings and will provide you annually with tax
information.

IRA Plan. The Trust has a master individual retirement account (IRA) plan that
allows you to invest on a tax-sheltered basis in the Funds or Oakmark Units of
the Government Portfolio of Goldman, Sachs Money Market Trust. The plan also
permits you to "roll over" or transfer to your IRA a lump sum distribution from
a qualified pension or profit-sharing plan, thereby postponing federal income
tax on the distribution. If your employer has a Simplified Employee Pension Plan
(SEP), you may establish an IRA with the Fund to which your employer may
contribute, subject to special rules designed to avoid discrimination.

Establishing Privileges. You may establish any of the shareholder privileges
when you complete an application

26 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

to purchase shares of a Fund. If you have already established an account and
want to add or change a privilege, please call the transfer agent at 1-800-
OAKMARK (choose menu option 2) to request the appropriate form. Your call will
be recorded.

Audio Response System. You may obtain information about your account, such as
account balance and last transaction and distribution information, or you may
order duplicate statements, by calling the Funds' Audio Response System at
1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option 1). Please note: you must have a personal
identification ("PIN") number to access the Audio Response System. Call 1-800-
OAKMARK (choose menu option 2) and speak with a customer service representative
to obtain your PIN number. Your call will be recorded.

Account Address Change. You may change your address of record for a Fund account
by sending written instructions to the transfer agent at its address shown on
the inside back cover of this prospectus or by telephoning the transfer agent at
1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option 2). Your call will be recorded.

Account Registration Change. You may change your account registration only by
sending your written instructions with a signature guarantee to the transfer
agent at its address shown on the inside back cover of this prospectus. See "How
to Redeem Shares-By Mail" regarding signature guarantees.

Questions about Your Account. If you have a question about your account, you may
telephone the transfer agent at 1-800-OAKMARK (choose menu option 2).

Net Asset Value

The net asset value of a share of each Fund is determined by the Fund's
custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company, as of the close of regular
session trading on the New York Stock Exchange (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern
time) on any day on which that exchange is open for trading by dividing the
market value of that Fund's assets, less its liabilities, by the number of
shares outstanding. Trading in the portfolio securities of International Fund or
International Small Cap Fund (and in any securities of non-U.S. issuers held by
any other Fund) takes place in various markets on days and at times other than
when the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Therefore, the calculation
of net asset value does not take place at the same time as the prices of many of
those portfolio securities are determined and the value of the Funds' portfolios
may change on days when the Funds are not open for business and their shares may
not be purchased or redeemed.

Price information can be obtained by calling the 24-Hour Net Asset Value
Hotline, 1-800-GROWOAK (1-800-476-9625).

Prospectus 27
<PAGE>

Distributions

Each Fund distributes to shareholders at least annually substantially all net
investment income and any net capital gains realized from sales of the Fund's
portfolio securities. All of your income dividends and capital gain
distributions will be reinvested in additional shares unless you elect to have
distributions paid by check. If any check from a Fund mailed to you is returned
as undeliverable or is not presented for payment within six months, the Trust
reserves the right to reinvest the check proceeds and future distributions in
additional Fund shares.

Taxes

Dividends from investment income and net short-term capital gains are taxable as
ordinary income. Distributions of long-term capital gains are taxable as long-
term capital gains regardless of the length of time you have held your Fund
shares. Distributions will be taxable to you whether received in cash or
reinvested in Fund shares.

You will be advised annually as to the source of your distributions for tax
purposes. If you are not subject to income taxation, you will not be required to
pay tax on amounts distributed to you.

If you purchase shares shortly before a record date for a distribution you will,
in effect, receive a return of a portion of your investment, but the
distribution will be taxable to you even if the net asset value of your shares
is reduced below your cost. However, for federal income tax purposes your
original cost would continue as your tax basis. If you redeem shares within six
months, any loss on the sale of those shares would be long-term capital loss to
the extent of any distributions of long-term capital gain that you have received
on those shares.

Investment income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may
be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at the source. If a Fund pays
nonrefundable taxes to foreign governments during the year, the taxes will
reduce that Fund's dividends but will still be included in your taxable income.
However, you may be able to claim an offsetting credit or deduction on your tax
return for your share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund.

If (a) you fail to (i) furnish your properly certified social security or other
tax identification number or (ii) certify that your tax identification number is
correct or that you are not subject to backup withholding due to the
underreporting of certain income, or (b) the Internal Revenue Service informs
the Trust that your tax identification number is incorrect, the Trust may be
required to withhold Federal income tax at a rate of 31% ("backup withholding")
from certain payments (including redemption proceeds) to you. These
certifications are contained in the New Account Purchase Application that you
should complete and return when you open an account. The Fund must promptly pay
to the IRS all amounts withheld. Therefore, it is usually not possible for the
Fund to reimburse you for amounts withheld. You may claim the amount

28 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

withheld as a credit on your Federal income tax return.

This discussion of U.S. and foreign taxation applies only to U.S. shareholders
and is not intended to be a full discussion of income tax laws and their effect.
You may wish to consult your own tax adviser.

Management of the Funds

The board of trustees of the Trust has overall responsibility for the conduct of
the affairs of the Funds and the Trust. The trustees serve indefinite terms of
unlimited duration. The trustees appoint their own successors, provided that at
least two-thirds of the trustees, after such appointment, have been elected by
shareholders. Shareholders may remove a trustee, with or without cause, upon the
declaration in writing or vote of two-thirds of the Trust's outstanding shares.
A trustee may be removed with or without cause upon the written declaration of a
majority of the trustees.

The Funds' investments and business affairs are managed by the Adviser, Harris
Associates L.P. The Adviser also serves as investment adviser to individuals,
trusts, retirement plans, endowments and foundations, and manages numerous
private partnerships.

The Adviser was organized in 1995 to succeed to the business of a previous
limited partnership, also named Harris Associates L.P. (the "Former Adviser"),
that, together with its predecessor, had advised and managed mutual funds since
1970. The Adviser, a limited partnership, is managed by its general partner,
Harris Associates, Inc. ("HAI"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of New England
Investment Companies, L.P. ("NEIC"). NEIC owns all of the limited partnership
interests in the Adviser. NEIC is a publicly traded limited partnership that
owns investment management firms and that is a subsidiary of Metropolitan Life
Insurance Company.

Subject to the overall authority of the board of trustees, the Adviser furnishes
continuous investment supervision and management to the Funds and also furnishes
office space, equipment and management personnel.

The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reimburse each Fund to the extent that the
Fund's annual ordinary operating expenses exceed the following percent of the
Fund's average net assets through October 31, 1998, subject to earlier
termination by the Adviser on 30 days' notice to the Fund: 1.5% in the case of
Oakmark Fund, Select Fund, Small Cap Fund or Balanced Fund and 2% in the case of
International Fund and International Small Cap Fund.

The Trust uses "Harris Associates" in its name and "Oakmark" in the names of the
Funds by license from the Adviser and would be required to stop using those
names if Harris Associates ceased to be the Adviser. The Adviser has the right
to use the names for another enterprise, including another investment company.

Prospectus 29
<PAGE>

The investment objective and policies of Oakmark Fund were developed by the
Adviser and by Robert J. Sanborn, C.F.A., the Fund's portfolio manager. Mr.
Sanborn joined the Adviser as a portfolio manager and analyst in 1988. Prior
thereto, he had been a portfolio manager/analyst with The State Teachers
Retirement System of Ohio. Mr. Sanborn holds an M.B.A. in Finance from the
University of Chicago (1983) and a B.A. in Economics from Dartmouth College
(1980).

The investment objective and policies of Select Fund were developed by the
Adviser and by William C. Nygren, C.F.A., the Fund's portfolio manager. Mr.
Nygren joined the Adviser as an analyst in 1983, and has been the Adviser's
Director of Research since 1990. Prior thereto, he had been an analyst with
Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company. Mr. Nygren holds an M.S. in Finance
from the University of Wisconsin (1981) and a B.S. in Accounting from the
University of Minnesota (1980).

The investment objective and policies of Small Cap Fund were developed by the
Adviser and by Steven J. Reid, C.F.A., the Fund's portfolio manager. Mr. Reid
joined the Adviser as an accountant in 1980 and has been an investment analyst
since 1985. He holds a B.A. in Business from Roosevelt University (1979).

The investment objective and policies of Balanced Fund were developed by the
Adviser and by Clyde S. McGregor, C.F.A., the Fund's portfolio manager. Mr.
McGregor joined the Adviser as an analyst in 1981 and began managing portfolios
in 1986. He holds an M.B.A. in Finance from the University of Wisconsin--Madison
(1977) and a B.A. in Economics and Religion from Oberlin College (1974).

30 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

The investment objective and policies of International Fund were developed by
the Adviser and by David G. Herro, C.F.A., the Fund's portfolio manager. The
Fund is co-managed by Michael J. Welsh, C.F.A. and C.P.A. Mr. Herro joined the
Adviser in 1992 as a portfolio manager and analyst. Previously, he had been an
international portfolio manager for the State of Wisconsin Investment Board and
The Principal Financial Group. Mr. Herro holds an M.A. in Economics from the
University of Wisconsin--Milwaukee (1986) and a B.S. in Business and Economics
from the University of Wisconsin--Platteville (1985). Mr. Welsh joined the
adviser as an international analyst in 1992. Previously he had been a senior
associate, valuation services, with Coopers & Lybrand. Mr. Welsh holds an M.M.
in Finance from Northwestern University (1993) and a B.S. in Accounting from the
University of Kansas (1985).

The investment objective and policies of International Small Cap Fund were
developed by the Adviser and by David G. Herro, the Fund's portfolio manager.
The Fund is co-managed by Adam Schor, C.F.A. Mr. Schor joined the Adviser as an
international analyst in 1993. Previously he had been an analyst with American
Family Insurance Group and the State of Wisconsin Investment Board. Mr. Schor
holds an M.S. in Finance from the University of Wisconsin--Madison (1993) and a
B.S. in Journalism and Economics from Northwestern University (1986).

Brokerage transactions for the Funds may be executed through Harris Associates
Securities L.P., a registered broker-dealer and an affiliate of the Adviser.

Prospectus 31
<PAGE>

TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
The trustees and officers of the Trust and their principal business activities
during the past five years are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name, Position(s) with Trust
and Age at January 31, 1997 Principal Occupation(s) during Past Five Years#
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Victor A. Morgenstern* Chief executive officer (Chairman of the Board since
Trustee and President, 54 1996; President prior thereto), HAI; Chairman,
Harris Partners, L.L.C. since September 1995

Michael J. Friduss Principal, MJ Friduss & Associates (telecommunica-
Trustee, 54 tions consultants), since 1993; Vice President--
Customer Service and Information Technology,
Ameritech Corporation (telecommunications)

Thomas H. Hayden Executive Vice President and director, Bozell
Trustee, 45 Worldwide, Inc. (advertising and public relations)

Christine M. Maki Vice President--Tax, Hyatt Corporation (hotel
Trustee, 36 management) since 1995; Tax Manager, Coopers &
Lybrand (independent accountants), prior thereto

Allan J. Reich Senior Partner and Chair of Corporate/Securities
Trustee, 48 Practice Group, D'Ancona & Pflaum (attorneys),
since 1993; Senior Partner, McDermott, Will &
Emery (attorneys), prior thereto

Marv R. Rotter General Manager, Rotter & Associates
Trustee, 50 (financial services)

Burton W. Ruder President, The Academy Group (venture capital
Trustee, 53 investments and transaction financing)

Peter S. Voss* Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, New England
Trustee, 50 Investment Companies, Inc. and New England
Investment Companies, L.P.

Gary N. Wilner, M.D. Senior Attending Physician, Evanston Hospital, and
Trustee, 56 Medical Director--CardioPulmonary Wellness
Program, Evanston Hospital Corporation

Robert J. Sanborn Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Executive Vice President
and Portfolio Manager
(Oakmark Fund), 38
</TABLE>
32 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Name, Position(s) with Trust
and Age at January 31, 1997 Principal Occupation(s) during Past Five Years/#/
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DAVID G. HERRO Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Vice President and Portfolio
Manager (International
Fund and International
Small Cap Fund), 36

CLYDE S. McGREGOR Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Vice President and
Portfolio Manager
(Balanced Fund), 44

WILLIAM C. NYGREN Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Vice President and
Portfolio Manager
(Select Fund), 38

STEVEN J. REID Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Vice President and
Portfolio Manager
(Small Cap Fund), 40

ADAM SCHOR Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP, since 1993;
Assistant Vice President Analyst, American Family Insurance Group,
and Co-Portfolio Manager prior thereto
(International Small Cap
Fund), 32

MICHAEL J. WELSH Portfolio Manager and Analyst, HALP
Assistant Vice President
and Co-portfolio Manager
(International Fund), 33

ANN W. REGAN Director of Mutual Fund Operations, HALP,
Vice President--Shareholder since 1996; Special Projects Assistant to the
Operations and Assistant General Counsel, HALP, 1995--1996; Deputy
Secretary, 48 Corporation Counsel, City of Chicago,
1993--1994; Partner, Wildman, Harrold, Allen &
Dixon (attorneys), prior thereto

Prospectus 33
<PAGE>

Name, Position(s) with Trust
and Age at January 31, 1997 Principal Occupation(s) during Past Five Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anita M. Nagler Vice President, HAI, since 1994; General
Secretary, 40 Counsel, HALP, since 1993; Associate Regional
Administrator--Enforcement, Securities and
Exchange Commission, prior thereto

Donald Terao Secretary, Treasurer, and Chief Financial
Treasurer, 47 Officer HAI, since 1995; Controller, HALP,
prior thereto

Kristi L. Rowsell Assistant Treasurer, HALP, since 1996; Tax and
Assistant Treasurer, 30 Accounting Manager, HALP, 1995-1996;
Vice President and Treasurer, Calamos Asset
Management, Inc., prior thereto

# As used in this table, from and after September 29, 1995 "HALP" and "HAI"
refer to the Adviser and the general partner of the Adviser, respectively, and
prior to that date those terms refer to the Former Adviser and the general
partner of the Former Adviser, respectively.

* Messrs. Morgenstern and Voss are trustees who are "interested persons" (as
defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Trust by virtue of their
relationships with HAI.

Performance Information

From time to time the Funds may quote total return figures in sales material.
"Total Return" for a period is the percentage change in value during the period
of an investment in Fund shares, including the value of shares acquired through
reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains distributions. "Average Annual
Total Return" is the average annual compound rate of change in value represented
by the Total Return for the period. All of these calculations assume the
reinvestment of dividends and distributions in additional shares of the Fund.
Income taxes are not taken into account.

In advertising and sales literature, a Fund's performance may be compared to
market indexes and to the performance of other mutual funds. A Fund may also
publicize its comparative performance as computed in rankings or ratings
determined by independent services or publications including Lipper Analytical
Services, Inc., Morningstar, Inc. and others.

The performance of a Fund is a function of conditions in the securities markets,
porffolio management and operating expenses, and past results are not
necessarily indicative of future results. See "Investment Objectives" and
"Investment Restrictions." Performance information supplied by a Fund may not
provide a basis for comparison with other investments using different
reinvestment assumptions or time periods.

34 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

Other Information

The Funds are series of Harris Associates Investment Trust (the "Trust"), an
open-end management investment company, and each Fund other than Select Fund is
diversified. The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized under an
Agreement and Declaration of Trust ("Declaration of Trust") dated February 1,
1991, which provides that each shareholder shall be deemed to have agreed to be
bound by the terms thereof. The Declaration of Trust may be amended by a vote of
either the Trust's shareholders or its trustees. The Trust may issue an
unlimited number of shares, in one or more series, each with its own investment
objective, policies and restrictions, as the board of trustees may authorize.
Any such series of shares may be further divided, without shareholder approval,
into two or more classes of shares having such preferences or special or
relative rights or privileges as the trustees may determine.

The Funds' shares are not currently divided into classes. The Funds are the only
series of the Trust currently being offered. All shares issued will be fully
paid and non-assessable and will have no preemptive or conversion rights.

Each share of a series is entitled to participate pro rata in any dividends and
other distributions declared by the board of trustees with respect to that
series, and all shares of a series have equal rights in the event of liquidation
of that series.

Each share is entitled to one vote on each matter presented to shareholders. As
a business trust, the Trust is not required to hold annual shareholder meetings.
However, special meetings may be called for purposes such as electing or
removing trustees, changing fundamental policies, or approving an investment
advisory contract. On any matter submitted to a vote of shareholders, shares are
voted in the aggregate and not by individual series except when required by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 or other applicable law, or when the board of
trustees determines that the matter affects only the interests of one or more
series, in which case shareholders of the unaffected series are not entitled to
vote on such matters. All shares of the Trust are voted together in the election
of trustees.

Inquiries regarding the Funds should be directed to the Trust at its address or
telephone number shown on the inside back cover.

Prospectus 35
<PAGE>

The Oakmark Family of Funds

1997 Prospectus
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Adviser
Harris Associates L.P.
Two North LaSalle Street
Chicago, Illinois 60602-3790

Transfer Agent, Dividend
Disbursing Agent & Custodian
State Street Bank and Trust Company
Attention: Oakmark Funds
P.O. Box 8510
Boston, Massachusetts 02266-8510

Auditors
Arthur Andersen LLP
Chicago, Illinois

Legal Counsel
Bell, Boyd & Lloyd
Chicago, Illinois

[LOGO OAKMARK Family of Funds]

For More Information:
Please call 1-800-OAKMARK (1-800-625-6275).

24-Hour Net Asset Value Hotline:
To obtain the current net asset value per share of a Fund,
please call 1-800-GROWOAK (1-800-476-9625).

36 The Oakmark family of funds
<PAGE>

[OAKMARK LOGO]

HARRIS ASSOCIATES L.P.
2 NORTH LASALLE STREET
CHICAGO, IL 60602
1-800-OAKMARK
<PAGE>

STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
----------------------

March 1, 1997

THE OAKMARK FAMILY OF FUNDS
No-Load Funds

Two North La Salle Street
Chicago, Illinois 60602-3790
Telephone 1-800-OAKMARK
(1-800-625-6275)

This Statement of Additional Information relates to The Oakmark Fund ("Oakmark
Fund"), The Oakmark Select Fund ("Select Fund"), The Oakmark Small Cap Fund
("Small Cap Fund"), The Oakmark Balanced Fund ("Balanced Fund"), The Oakmark
International Fund ("International Fund") and The Oakmark International Small
Cap Fund, formerly named The Oakmark International Emerging Value Fund
("International Small Cap Fund"), each a series of Harris Associates Investment
Trust (the "Trust"). It is not a prospectus but provides information that
should be read in conjunction with the Funds' prospectus dated the same date as
this Statement of Additional Information and any supplement thereto. The
prospectus may be obtained from the Funds at no charge by writing or telephoning
the Funds at their address or telephone number shown above.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Table of Contents

<S> <C>
The Funds......................................................... 2
Investment Restrictions........................................... 2
How the Funds Invest.............................................. 5
Performance Information........................................... 10
Investment Adviser................................................ 12
Trustees and Officers............................................. 14
Principal Shareholders............................................ 16
Purchasing and Redeeming Shares................................... 16
Additional Tax Information........................................ 17
Taxation of Foreign Shareholders.................................. 18
Portfolio Transactions............................................ 18
Declaration of Trust.............................................. 21
Custodian......................................................... 21
Independent Public Accountants.................................... 21
Financial Statements.............................................. 21
Appendix -- Bond Ratings.......................................... 22

</TABLE>

<PAGE>

THE FUNDS

Oakmark Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
equity securities.

Select Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in
a non-diversified portfolio of equity securities.

Small Cap Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily
in equity securities of companies with small market capitalizations.

Balanced Fund seeks high current income with regard for both preservation
and growth of capital by investing in a diversified portfolio of equity and
fixed-income securities.

International Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing
primarily in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers.

International Small Cap Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation by
investing primarily in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers with small market
capitalizations.

INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS

In pursuing their respective investment objectives no Fund will:

1. [This restriction does not apply to Select Fund] In regard to 75% of
its assets, invest more than 5% of its assets (valued at the time of investment)
in securities of any one issuer, except in U.S. government obligations;

2. Acquire securities of any one issuer which at the time of investment
(a) represent more than 10% of the voting securities of the issuer or (b) have a
value greater than 10% of the value of the outstanding securities of the issuer;

3. Invest more than 25% of its assets (valued at the time of investment)
in securities of companies in any one industry, except that this restriction
does not apply to investments in U.S. government obligations;

4. Borrow money except from banks for temporary or emergency purposes in
amounts not exceeding 10% of the value of the Fund's assets at the time of
borrowing [the Fund will not purchase additional securities when its borrowings,
less receivables from portfolio securities sold, exceed 5% of the value of the
Fund's total assets];

5. Issue any senior security except in connection with permitted
borrowings;

6. Underwrite the distribution of securities of other issuers; however the
Fund may acquire "restricted" securities which, in the event of a resale, might
be required to be registered under the Securities Act of 1933 on the ground that
the Fund could be regarded as an underwriter as defined by that act with respect
to such resale;

7. Make loans, but this restriction shall not prevent the Fund from (a)
investing in debt obligations, (b) investing in repurchase agreements,/1/ or
(c) [Funds other than Oakmark

- ------------------
/1/ A repurchase agreement involves a sale of securities to a Fund with the
concurrent agreement of the seller (bank or securities dealer) to
repurchase the securities at the same price plus an amount equal to an
agreed-upon interest rate within a specified time. In the event of a
bankruptcy or other default of a seller of a repurchase agreement, the Fund
could

<PAGE>

Fund] lending its portfolio securities [the Fund will not lend securities having
a value in excess of 33-1/3% of its assets (valued at the time of any loan)];

8. Purchase and sell real estate or interests in real estate, although it
may invest in marketable securities of enterprises which invest in real estate
or interests in real estate;

9. Purchase and sell commodities or commodity contracts, except that it
may enter into forward foreign currency contracts;

10. Acquire securities of other investment companies except (a) by
purchase in the open market, where no commission or profit to a sponsor or
dealer results from such purchase other than the customary broker's commission
or (b) where the acquisition results from a dividend or a merger, consolidation
or other reorganization;/2/

11. Invest more than (a) 5% of its total assets (valued at the time of
investment) in securities of issuers (other than issuers of federal agency
obligations or securities issued or guaranteed by any foreign country or asset-
backed securities) that, together with any predecessors or unconditional
guarantors, have been in continuous operation for less than three years
("unseasoned issuers") or (b) more than 15% of its total assets (valued at time
of investment) in restricted securities and securities of unseasoned issuers;

12. Pledge, mortgage or hypothecate its assets, except for temporary or
emergency purposes and then to an extent not greater than 15% of its assets at
cost;

13. Make margin purchases or participate in a joint or on a joint or
several basis in any trading account in securities;

14. Invest in companies for the purpose of management or the exercise of
control;

15. Purchase or retain securities of a company if all of the directors and
officers of the Fund and of its investment adviser who individually own
beneficially more than 1/2% of the securities of the company collectively own
beneficially more than 5% of such securities;

16. Invest more than 15% of its net assets (valued at the time of
investment) in illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements maturing in
more than seven days;

17. Invest in oil, gas or other mineral leases or exploration or
development programs, although it may invest in marketable securities of
enterprises engaged in oil, gas or mineral exploration;

18. [Oakmark Fund, Select Fund, Small Cap Fund and Balanced Fund only]
Invest more than 2% of its net assets (valued at the time of investment) in
warrants not listed on the New York or American stock exchanges, valued at cost,
nor more than 5% of its net assets in all

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
experience both delays in liquidating the underlying securities and losses.
No Fund may invest more than 15% of its net assets in repurchase agreements
maturing in more than seven days and other illiquid securities.

/2/ In addition to this investment restriction, the Investment Company Act of
1940 provides that a Fund may neither purchase more than 3% of the voting
securities of any one investment company nor invest more than 10% of the
Fund's assets (valued at the time of investment) in all investment company
securities purchased by the Fund. Investment in the shares of another
investment company would require the Fund to bear a portion of the
management and advisory fees paid by that investment company, which might
duplicate the fees paid by the Fund.

<PAGE>

warrants, provided that warrants acquired in units or attached to other
securities shall be deemed to be without value for purposes of this restriction;
[International Fund and International Small Cap Fund only] Invest more than 10%
of its net assets (valued at the time of investment) in warrants valued at the
lower of cost or market, provided that warrants acquired in units or attached to
securities shall be deemed to be without value for purposes of this restriction;

19. [Oakmark Fund, Select Fund and Small Cap Fund only] Invest more than
25% of its total assets (valued at the time of investment) in securities of non-
U.S. issuers (other than securities represented by American Depositary Receipts)
[Balanced Fund only] Invest more than 10% of its total assets (valued at the
time of investment) in securities of non-U.S. issuers (other than securities
represented by American Depositary Receipts);/3/

20. Make short sales of securities unless the Fund owns at least an equal
amount of such securities, or owns securities that are convertible or
exchangeable, without payment of further consideration, into at least an equal
amount of such securities;

21. Purchase a call option or a put option if the aggregate premium paid
for all call and put options then held exceed 20% of its net assets (less the
amount by which any such positions are in-the-money);

22. Invest in futures or options on futures, except that it may invest in
forward foreign currency contracts.

The first 10 restrictions listed above, except the bracketed portions, are
fundamental policies and may be changed only with the approval of the holders of
a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" of the respective Fund, which
is defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act") as the lesser
of (i) 67% of the shares of the Fund present at a meeting if more than 50% of
the outstanding shares of the Fund are present in person or represented by proxy
or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Those restrictions
not designated as "fundamental," and a Fund's investment objective, may be
changed by the board of trustees without shareholder approval. A Fund's
investment objective will not be changed without at least 30 days' notice to
shareholders.

Notwithstanding the foregoing investment restrictions, a Fund may purchase
securities pursuant to the exercise of subscription rights, provided, in the
case of each Fund other than Select Fund, that such purchase will not result in
the Fund's ceasing to be a diversified investment company. Japanese and
European corporations frequently issue additional capital stock by means of
subscription rights offerings to existing shareholders at a price substantially
below the market price of the shares. The failure to exercise such rights would
result in a Fund's interest in the issuing company being diluted. The market
for such rights is not well developed in all cases and, accordingly, a Fund may
not always realize full value on the sale of rights. The exception applies in
cases where the limits set forth in the investment restrictions would otherwise
be exceeded by exercising rights or would have already been exceeded as a result
of fluctuations in the market value of a Fund's portfolio securities with the
result that the Fund would be forced either to sell securities at a time when it
might not otherwise have done so, or to forego exercising the rights.

- ------------------
/3/ Although securities represented by American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs")
are not subject to restriction 19, none of these Funds has any present
intention to invest more than the indicated percentage of its total assets
in ADRs and securities of foreign issuers.

4
<PAGE>

HOW THE FUNDS INVEST

Securities of Non-U.S. Issuers

International Fund and International Small Cap Fund invest primarily in
securities of non-U.S. issuers, and the other Funds each may invest a minor
portion of their assets (up to 25% for Oakmark Fund and Small Cap Fund and up to
10% for Balanced Fund) in securities of non-U.S. issuers. International
investing permits an investor to take advantage of the growth in markets outside
the United States. Investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers may entail a
greater degree of risk (including risks relating to exchange rate fluctuations,
tax provisions, or expropriation of assets) than does investment in securities
of domestic issuers. The Funds may invest in securities of non-U.S. issuers
directly or in the form of American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), European
Depositary Receipts (EDRs), Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), or other
securities representing underlying shares of foreign issuers. Positions in these
securities are not necessarily denominated in the same currency as the common
stocks into which they may be converted. ADRs are receipts typically issued by
an American bank or trust company and trading in U.S. markets evidencing
ownership of the underlying securities. EDRs are European receipts evidencing a
similar arrangement. Generally ADRs, in registered form, are designed for use in
the U.S. securities markets and EDRs, in bearer form, are designed for use in
European securities markets. GDRs are receipts that may trade in U.S. or non-
U.S. markets. The Funds may invest in both "sponsored" and "unsponsored" ADRs,
EDRs or GDRs. In a sponsored depositary receipt, the issuer typically pays some
or all of the expenses of the depository and agrees to provide its regular
shareholder communications to depositary receipt holders. An unsponsored
depositary receipt is created independently of the issuer of the underlying
security. The depositary receipt holders generally pay the expenses of the
depository and do not have an undertaking from the issuer of the underlying
security to furnish shareholder communications.

With respect to portfolio securities of non-U.S. issuers or denominated in
foreign currencies, a Fund's investment performance is affected by the strength
or weakness of the U.S. dollar against these currencies. For example, if the
dollar falls in value relative to the Japanese yen, the dollar value of a yen-
denominated stock held in the portfolio will rise even though the price of the
stock remains unchanged. Conversely, if the dollar rises in value relative to
the yen, the dollar value of the yen-denominated stock will fall. See
discussion of transaction hedging and portfolio hedging under "Currency Exchange
Transactions."

You should understand and consider carefully the risks involved in
international investing. Investing in securities of non-U.S. issuers, positions
in which are generally denominated in foreign currencies, and utilization of
forward foreign currency exchange contracts involve certain considerations
comprising both risks and opportunities not typically associated with investing
in U.S. securities. These considerations include: fluctuations in exchange
rates of foreign currencies; possible imposition of exchange control regulation
or currency restrictions that would prevent cash from being brought back to the
United States; less public information with respect to issuers of securities;
less governmental supervision of stock exchanges, securities brokers, and
issuers of securities; different accounting, auditing and financial reporting
standards; different settlement periods and trading practices; less liquidity
and frequently greater price volatility in foreign markets than in the United
States; imposition of foreign taxes; and sometimes less advantageous legal,
operational and financial protections applicable to foreign subcustodial
arrangements.

Although the Funds try to invest in companies and governments of countries
having stable political environments, there is the possibility of expropriation
of assets, confiscatory taxation, seizure or nationalization of foreign bank
deposits or other assets, establishment of exchange controls, the adoption of
foreign government restrictions, or other adverse, political, social or
diplomatic developments that could affect investment in these nations.

5
<PAGE>

Privatizations. Some governments have been engaged in programs of selling
part or all of their stakes in government owned or controlled enterprises
("privatizations"). The adviser believes that privatizations may offer
opportunities for significant capital appreciation, and intends to invest assets
of International Fund and International Small Cap Fund in privatizations in
appropriate circumstances. In certain of those markets, the ability of foreign
entities such as International Fund and International Small Cap Fund to
participate in privatizations may be limited by local law, and/or the terms on
which such Funds may be permitted to participate may be less advantageous than
those afforded local investors. There can be no assurance that governments will
continue to sell companies currently owned or controlled by them or that
privatization programs will be successful.

Currency Exchange Transactions. Each Fund may enter into currency exchange
transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate for purchasing
or selling currency prevailing in the foreign exchange market or through a
forward currency exchange contract ("forward contract"). A forward contract is
an agreement to purchase or sell a specified currency at a specified future date
(or within a specified time period) and price set at the time of the contract.
Forward contracts are usually entered into with banks and broker-dealers, are
not exchange-traded and are usually for less than one year, but may be renewed.

If a Fund enters into a forward contract hedging an anticipated purchase of
portfolio securities, liquid assets of the Fund, which may include equities,
debt obligations, U.S. government securities or cash, having a value at least as
great as the commitment under the forward contract will be segregated on the
books of the Fund, marked to market daily, and held by the Fund's custodian
while the contract is outstanding.

At the maturity of a forward contract to deliver a particular currency, a
Fund may either sell the portfolio security related to such contract and make
delivery of the currency, or it may retain the security and either acquire the
currency on the spot market or terminate its contractual obligation to deliver
the currency by purchasing an offsetting contract with the same currency trader
obligating it to purchase on the same maturity date the same amount of the
currency.

It is impossible to forecast with absolute precision the market value of
portfolio securities at the expiration of a forward contract. Accordingly, it
may be necessary for a Fund to purchase additional currency on the spot market
(and bear the expense of such purchase) if the market value of the security is
less than the amount of currency the Fund is obligated to deliver and if a
decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the currency.
Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on the spot market some of the currency
received upon the sale of the portfolio security if its market value exceeds the
amount of currency the Fund is obligated to deliver.

If the Fund retains the portfolio security and engages in an offsetting
transaction, the Fund will incur a gain or a loss to the extent that there has
been movement in forward contract prices. If the Fund engages in an offsetting
transaction, it may subsequently enter into a new forward contract to sell the
currency. Should forward prices decline during the period between the Fund's
entering into a forward contract for the sale of a currency and the date it
enters into an offsetting contract for the purchase of the currency, the Fund
will realize a gain to the extent the price of the currency it has agreed to
sell exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase. Should forward
prices increase, the Fund will suffer a loss to the extent the price of the

6
<PAGE>

currency it has agreed to sell exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed
to purchase. Should forward prices increase, the Fund will suffer a loss to the
extent the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase exceeds the price of
the currency it has agreed to sell. A default on the contract would deprive the
Fund of unrealized profits or force the Fund to cover its commitments for
purchase or sale of currency, if any, at the current market price.

Hedging against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate
fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities or prevent losses if the
prices of such securities decline. Such transactions also preclude the
opportunity for gain if the value of the hedged currency should rise. Moreover,
it may not be possible for the Fund to hedge against a devaluation that is so
generally anticipated that the Fund is not able to contract to sell the currency
at a price above the devaluation level it anticipates. The cost to the Fund of
engaging in currency exchange transactions varies with such factors as the
currency involved, the length of the contract period, and prevailing market
conditions. Since currency exchange transactions are usually conducted on a
principal basis, no fees or commissions are involved.

Debt Securities

Each Fund may invest in debt securities, including lower-rated securities
(i.e., securities rated BB or lower by Standard & Poor's Corporation ("S&P") or
Ba or lower by Moody's Investor Services, Inc. ("Moody's"), commonly called
"junk bonds") and securities that are not rated. There are no restrictions as
to the ratings of debt securities acquired by a Fund or the portion of a Fund's
assets that may be invested in debt securities in a particular ratings category,
except that International Fund and International Small Cap Fund will not invest
more than 10% of their respective total assets in securities rated below
investment grade, Balanced Fund will not invest more than 20% of its total
assets in such securities, and each of the other Funds will not invest more than
25% of its total assets in such securities.

Securities rated BBB or Baa are considered to be medium grade and to have
speculative characteristics. Lower-rated debt securities are predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. Investment in medium- or lower-quality debt securities involves
greater investment risk, including the possibility of issuer default or
bankruptcy. An economic downturn could severely disrupt the market for such
securities and adversely affect the value of such securities. In addition,
lower-quality bonds are less sensitive to interest rate changes than higher-
quality instruments and generally are more sensitive to adverse economic changes
or individual corporate developments. During a period of adverse economic
changes, including a period of rising interest rates, issuers of such bonds may
experience difficulty in servicing their principal and interest payment
obligations.

Medium- and lower-quality debt securities may be less marketable than
higher-quality debt securities because the market for them is less broad. The
market for unrated debt securities is even narrower. During periods of thin
trading in these markets, the spread between bid and asked prices is likely to
increase significantly, and a Fund may have greater difficulty selling its
portfolio securities. See "Net Asset Value." The market value of these
securities and their liquidity may be affected by adverse publicity and investor
perceptions.

A description of the characteristics of bonds in each ratings category is
included in the appendix to this statement of additional information.

When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Securities

Each Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed-delivery
basis. Although the payment and interest terms of these securities are
established at the time a Fund enters into the commitment, the securities may be
delivered and paid for a month or more after the date of purchase, when their
value may have changed. A Fund makes such commitments only with the intention
of actually acquiring the securities, but may sell the securities before

7
<PAGE>

settlement date if the adviser deems it advisable for investment reasons. A
Fund may utilize spot and forward foreign currency exchange transactions to
reduce the risk inherent in fluctuations in the exchange rate between one
currency and another when securities are purchased or sold on a when-issued or
delayed-delivered basis.

At the time a Fund enters into a binding obligation to purchase securities
on a when-issued basis, liquid assets of the Fund having a value at least as
great as the purchase price of the securities to be purchased will be segregated
on the books of the Fund and held by the custodian throughout the period of the
obligation. The use of these investment strategies, as well as any borrowing by
a Fund, may increase net asset value fluctuation.

Illiquid Securities

No Fund may invest in illiquid securities, if as a result such securities
would comprise more than 15% of the value of the Fund's assets.

If through the appreciation of illiquid securities or the depreciation of
liquid securities, the Fund should be in a position where more than 15% of the
value of its net assets are invested in illiquid assets, including restricted
securities, the Fund will take appropriate steps to protect liquidity.

Illiquid securities may include restricted securities, which may be sold
only in privately negotiated transactions or in a public offering with respect
to which a registration statement is in effect under the Securities Act of 1933
(the "1933 Act"). Where a Fund holds restricted securities and registration is
required, the Fund may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration
expenses and a considerable period may elapse between the time of the decision
to sell and the time the Fund may be permitted to sell a security under an
effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market
conditions were to develop, the Fund might obtain a less favorable price than
prevailed when it decided to sell. Restricted securities will be priced at fair
value as determined in good faith by the board of trustees.

Notwithstanding the above, each Fund may purchase securities that, although
privately placed, are eligible for purchase and sale under Rule 144A under the
1933 Act. This rule permits certain qualified institutional buyers, such as the
Funds, to trade in privately placed securities even though such securities are
not registered under the 1933 Act. The adviser, under the supervision of the
board of trustees, may consider whether securities purchased under Rule 144A are
liquid and thus not subject to the Fund's restriction of investing no more than
15% of its assets in illiquid securities. (See restriction 11 under "Investment
Restrictions.") A determination of whether a Rule 144A security is liquid or
not is a question of fact. In making this determination the adviser will
consider the trading markets for the specific security taking into account the
unregistered nature of a Rule 144A security. In addition, the adviser could
consider the (1) frequency of trades and quotes, (2) number of dealers and
potential purchasers, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, (4) and the
nature of the security and of market place trades (e.g., the time needed to
dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of
transfer). The liquidity of Rule 144A securities would be monitored and, if as
a result of changed conditions, it is determined that a Rule 144A security is no
longer liquid, the Fund's holdings of illiquid securities would be reviewed to
determine what, if any, steps are required to assure that the Fund does not
invest more than 15% of its assets in illiquid securities. Investing in Rule
144A securities could have the effect of increasing the amount of a Fund's
assets invested in illiquid securities if qualified institutional buyers are
unwilling to purchase such securities.

Short Sales

Each Fund may sell securities short against the box, that is: (1) enter
into short sales of securities that it currently owns or has the right to
acquire through the conversion or exchange of other securities that it owns
without additional consideration; and (2) enter into arrangements with

8
<PAGE>

the broker-dealers through which such securities are sold short to receive
income with respect to the proceeds of short sales during the period the Fund's
short positions remain open. A Fund may make short sales of securities only if
at all times when a short position is open the Fund owns at least an equal
amount of such securities or securities convertible into or exchangeable for,
without payment of any further consideration, securities of the same issue as,
and equal in amount to, the securities sold short.

In a short sale against the box, a Fund does not deliver from its portfolio
the securities sold and does not receive immediately the proceeds from the short
sale. Instead, the Fund borrows the securities sold short from a broker-dealer
through which the short sale is executed, and the broker-dealer delivers such
securities, on behalf of the Fund, to the purchaser of such securities. Such
broker-dealer is entitled to retain the proceeds from the short sale until the
Fund delivers to such broker-dealer the securities sold short. In addition, the
Fund is required to pay to the broker-dealer the amount of any dividends paid on
shares sold short. Finally, to secure its obligation to deliver to such broker-
dealer the securities sold short, the Fund must deposit and continuously
maintain in a separate account with the Fund's custodian an equivalent amount of
the securities sold short or securities convertible into or exchangeable for
such securities without the payment of additional consideration. A Fund is said
to have a short position in the securities sold until it delivers to the broker-
dealer the securities sold, at which time the Fund receives the proceeds of the
sale. A Fund may close out a short position by purchasing on the open market
and delivering to the broker-dealer an equal amount of the securities sold
short, rather than by delivering portfolio securities.

Short sales may protect a Fund against the risk of losses in the value of
its portfolio securities because any unrealized losses with respect to such
portfolio securities should be wholly or partially offset by a corresponding
gain in the short position. However, any potential gains in such portfolio
securities should be wholly or partially offset by a corresponding loss in the
short position. The extent to which such gains or losses are offset will depend
upon the amount of securities sold short relative to the amount the Fund owns,
either directly or indirectly, and, in the case where the Fund owns convertible
securities, changes in the conversion premium.

Short sale transactions involve certain risks. If the price of the
security sold short increases between the time of the short sale and the time a
Fund replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will incur a loss and if the price
declines during this period, the Fund will realize a short-term capital gain.
Any realized short-term capital gain will be decreased, and any incurred loss
increased, by the amount of transaction costs and any premium, dividend or
interest which the Fund may have to pay in connection with such short sale.
Certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code may limit the degree to which a
Fund is able to enter into short sales. There is no limitation on the amount of
each Fund's assets that, in the aggregate, may be deposited as collateral for
the obligation to replace securities borrowed to effect short sales and
allocated to segregated accounts in connection with short sales. No Fund
currently expects that more than 20% of its total assets would be involved in
short sales against the box.

Options

Each Fund may purchase both call options and put options on securities. A
call or put option is a contract that gives the Fund, in return for a premium
paid upon purchase of the option, the right during the term of the option to buy
from, or to sell to, the seller of the option the security underlying the option
at a specified exercise price. The option is valued initially at the premium
paid for the option. Thereafter, the value of the option is marked-to-market
daily. It is expected that a Fund will not purchase a call option or a put
option if the aggregate value of all call and put options held by the Fund would
exceed 5% of the Fund's net assets.

9
<PAGE>

Temporary Strategies

Each Fund has the flexibility to respond promptly to changes in market and
economic conditions. In the interest of preserving shareholders' capital, the
adviser may employ a temporary defensive investment strategy if it determines
such a strategy to be warranted. Pursuant to such a defensive strategy, a Fund
temporarily may hold cash (U.S. dollars, foreign currencies, or multinational
currency units) and/or invest up to 100% of its assets in high quality debt
securities or money market instruments of U.S. or foreign issuers, and most or
all of International Fund's investments and International Small Cap Fund's
investments may be made in the United States and denominated in U.S. dollars.
It is impossible to predict whether, when or for how long a Fund will employ
defensive strategies.

In addition, pending investment of proceeds from new sales of Fund shares
or to meet ordinary daily cash needs, each Fund temporarily may hold cash (U.S.
dollars, foreign currencies or multinational currency units) and may invest any
portion of its assets in money market instruments.

PERFORMANCE INFORMATION

From time to time the Funds may quote total return figures in sales
material. "Total Return" for a period is the percentage change in value during
the period of an investment in Fund shares, including the value of shares
acquired through reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains distributions.
"Average Annual Total Return" is the average annual compounded rate of change in
value represented by the Total Return for the period.

Average Annual Total Return will be computed as follows:

ERV = P(1+T)/n/

Where: P = the amount of an assumed initial investment in Fund shares
T = average annual total return
n = number of years from initial investment to the end of the
period
ERV = ending redeemable value of shares held at the end of the
period

For example, Total Return and Average Annual Total Return on a $1,000
investment in each Fund other than Select Fund for the following periods ended
October 31, 1996 were:

10
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Total Average Annual
Return Total Return
------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
Oakmark Fund
One year................................ 18.1% 18.1%
Five years.............................. 216.1 25.8
Life of Fund*........................... 282.5 29.2

Small Cap Fund
One year and life of Fund*.............. 31.9 31.9

Balanced Fund
One year and life of Fund*.............. 12.9 12.9

International Fund
One year................................ 24.9 24.9
Life of Fund*........................... 83.1 16.0

International Small Cap Fund
One year and life of Fund*.............. 14.1 14.1

</TABLE>
--------------
*Life of Fund commenced with the public offering of its shares as follows:
Oakmark, 8/5/91; International, 9/30/92; Small Cap, Balanced and
International Small Cap, 11/1/95.

Performance figures quoted by the Funds will assume reinvestment of all
dividends and distributions, but will not take into account income taxes payable
by shareholders. The Funds impose no sales charge and pay no distribution
("12b-1") expenses. Each Fund's performance is a function of conditions in the
securities markets, portfolio management, and operating expenses. Although
information such as yield and total return is useful in reviewing a Fund's
performance and in providing some basis for comparison with other investment
alternatives, it should not be used for comparison with other investments using
different reinvestment assumptions or time periods.

In advertising and sales literature, the performance of a Fund may be
compared with that of other mutual funds, indexes or averages of other mutual
funds, indexes of related financial assets or data, and other competing
investment and deposit products available from or through other financial
institutions. The composition of these indexes or averages differs from that of
the Funds. Comparison of a Fund to an alternative investment should consider
differences in features and expected performance.

All of the indexes and averages noted below will be obtained from the
indicated sources or reporting services, which the Funds generally believe to be
accurate. The Funds may also refer to publicity (including performance
rankings) in newspapers, magazines, or other media from time to time. However,
the Funds assume no responsibility for the accuracy of such data. Newspapers
and magazines that might mention the Funds include, but are not limited to, the
following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
Barron's Fortune The New York Times
Business Week Global Finance Pensions and Investments
Changing Times Investor's Daily Personal Investor
Chicago Tribune Kiplinger's Personal Finance Smart Money
Chicago Sun-Times Los Angeles Times Stanger Reports
Crain's Chicago Business Money Time
Consumer Reports Mutual Fund Letter USA Today
Consumer Digest Mutual Funds Magazine U.S. News and World Report
Financial World Morningstar The Wall Street Journal
Forbes Newsweek Worth

</TABLE>

11
<PAGE>

A Fund may compare its performance to the Consumer Price Index (All Urban),
a widely recognized measure of inflation. The performance of a Fund may also be
compared to the Morgan Stanley EAFE (Europe, Australia and Far East) Index, a
generally accepted benchmark for performance of major overseas markets, and to
the following indexes or averages:

Dow-Jones Industrial Average Wilshire 5000
Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index New York Stock Exchange Composite Index
Standard & Poor's 400 Industrials American Stock Exchange Composite Index
Standard & Poor's Small Cap 600 NASDAQ Composite
Standard & Poor's Mid Cap 400 NASDAQ Industrials
Russell 2000

In addition, each of Oakmark Fund, Select Fund, Small Cap Fund and Balanced
Fund may compare its performance to the following indexes and averages: Value
Line Index; Lipper Capital Appreciation Fund Average; Lipper Growth Funds
Average; Lipper Small Company Growth Funds Average; Lipper General Equity Funds
Average; Lipper Equity Funds Average; Lipper Small Company Growth Fund Index;
and Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index. Each of International Fund
and International Small Cap Fund may compare its performance to the following
indexes and averages: Lipper International & Global Funds Average; Lipper
International Fund Index; Lipper International Equity Funds Average; Morgan
Stanley Capital International World ex the U.S. Index; Morningstar International
Stock Average.

Lipper Indexes and Averages are calculated and published by Lipper
Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"), an independent service that monitors the
performance of more than 1,000 funds. The Funds may also use comparative
performance as computed in a ranking by Lipper or category averages and rankings
provided by another independent service. Should Lipper or another service
reclassify a Fund to a different category or develop (and place a Fund into) a
new category, that Fund may compare its performance or ranking against other
funds in the newly assigned category, as published by the service. Each Fund
may also compare its performance or ranking against all funds tracked by Lipper
or another independent service, including Morningstar, Inc.

The Funds may cite their ratings, recognition, or other mention by
Morningstar or any other entity. Morningstar's rating system is based on risk-
adjusted total return performance and is expressed in a star-rating format. The
risk-adjusted number is computed by subtracting a fund's risk score (which is a
function of the fund's monthly returns less the 3-month T-bill return) from the
fund's load-adjusted total return score. This numerical score is then
translated into rating categories, with the top 10% labeled five star, the next
22.5% labeled four star, the next 35% labeled three star, the next 22.5% labeled
two star, and the bottom 10% one star. A high rating reflects either above-
average returns or below-average risk or both.

To illustrate the historical returns on various types of financial assets,
the Funds may use historical data provided by Ibbotson Associates, Inc.
("Ibbotson"), a Chicago-based investment firm. Ibbotson constructs (or obtains)
very long-term (since 1926) total return data (including, for example, total
return indexes, total return percentages, average annual total returns and
standard deviations of such returns) for the following asset types: common
stocks; small company stocks; long-term corporate bonds; long-term government
bonds; intermediate-term government bonds; U.S. Treasury bills; and Consumer
Price Index.

INVESTMENT ADVISER

The Funds' investment adviser, Harris Associates L.P. (the "Adviser"),
furnishes continuing investment supervision to the Funds and is responsible for
overall management of the

12
<PAGE>

Funds' business affairs pursuant to investment advisory agreements relating to
the respective Funds (the "Agreements"). The Adviser furnishes office space,
equipment and personnel to the Funds, and assumes the expenses of printing and
distributing the Funds' prospectus and reports to prospective investors.

Each Fund pays the cost of its custodial, stock transfer, dividend
disbursing, bookkeeping, audit and legal services. Each Fund also pays other
expenses such as the cost of proxy solicitations, printing and distributing
notices and copies of the prospectus and shareholder reports furnished to
existing shareholders, taxes, insurance premiums, the expenses of maintaining
the registration of that Fund's shares under federal and state securities laws
and the fees of trustees not affiliated with the Adviser.

The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reimburse each Fund to the extent
that its annual ordinary operating expenses exceed the following percent of the
Fund's average net assets through October 31, 1998, subject to earlier
termination by the Adviser on 30 days' notice to the Fund: 1.5% in the case of
Oakmark Fund, Select Fund, Small Cap Fund or Balanced Fund and 2% in the case of
International Fund and International Small Cap Fund. For the purpose of
determining whether a Fund is entitled to any reduction in advisory fee or
expense reimbursement, that Fund's expenses are calculated daily and any
reduction in fee or reimbursement is made monthly.

For its services as investment adviser, the Adviser receives from each Fund
a monthly fee based on that Fund's net assets at the end of the preceding month.
The annual rates of fees as a percentage of each Fund's net assets are as
follows:

Fund Fee
- ---------------- -----------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Balanced .75%

Oakmark 1% up to $2.5 billion; .95% on the next $1.25
billion; .90% on the next $1.25 billion; and .85% on
net assets in excess of $5 billion

International 1% up to $2.5 billion; .95% on the next $2.5 billion;
and .90% on net assets in excess of $5 billion

Select 1.00%

Small Cap and 1.25%
International Small Cap

</TABLE>

The table below shows gross advisory fees paid by the Funds and any expense
reimbursements by the Adviser to them, which are described in the prospectus.
Select Fund did not commence operations until November 1, 1996.

13
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
Type of ------------------------------
Fund Payment 1996 1995 1994
---- ------- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Oakmark Advisory fee $36,082,925 $21,215,738 $13,431,816

Small Cap Advisory fee 956,809 - -

Balanced Advisory fee 69,005 - -
Reimbursement 14,245

International Advisory fee 10,113,272 9,916,904 13,080,028

International Advisory fee 258,427 - -
Small Cap Reimbursement 35,441 - -

</TABLE>

The Agreement for each Fund is for an initial term expiring September 30,
1997. Each Agreement will continue from year to year thereafter so long as such
continuation is approved at least annually by (1) the board of trustees or the
vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, and (2) a
majority of the trustees who are not interested persons of any party to the
Agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such
approval. Each Agreement may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by
either the Trust or the Adviser upon sixty days' written notice, and is
automatically terminated in the event of its assignment as defined in the 1940
Act.

The Adviser is a limited partnership managed by its general partner, Harris
Associates, Inc., whose directors are David G. Herro, Robert M. Levy, Roxanne M.
Martino, Victor A. Morgenstern, Anita M. Nagler, William C. Nygren, Neal Ryland,
Robert J. Sanborn and Peter S. Voss. Mr. Morgenstern is the chairman of the
board and chief executive officer of Harris Associates, Inc.

TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

Information on the trustees and officers of the Trust is included in the
Funds' prospectus under "Trustees and Officers." All of that information is
incorporated herein by reference.

The addresses of the trustees are as follows:

Michael J. Friduss c/o MJ Friduss & Associates
1555 Museum Drive
Highland Park, Illinois 60035

Thomas H. Hayden c/o Bozell Worldwide, Inc.
625 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611-3110

Christine M. Maki c/o Hyatt Corporation
200 West Madison Street
Chicago, Illinois 60606

Victor A. Morgenstern c/o Harris Associates L.P.
Two North La Salle Street, Suite 500
Chicago, Illinois 60602

14
<PAGE>

Allan J. Reich c/o D'Ancona & Pflaum
30 North La Salle Street, Suite 2900
Chicago, Illinois 60602

Marv R. Rotter c/o Rotter & Associates
5 Revere Drive, Suite 400
Northbrook, Illinois 60062-1571

Burton W. Ruder c/o The Academy Group
707 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 410
Northbrook, Illinois 60062

Peter S. Voss c/o New England Investment Companies, L.P.
399 Boylston Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02116

Gary N. Wilner, M.D. c/o Evanston Hospital
2650 Ridge Avenue
Evanston, Illinois 60201

Messrs. Morgenstern and Voss are trustees who are "interested persons" of
the Trust as defined in the 1940 Act. They and Dr. Wilner are members of the
executive committee, which has authority during intervals between meetings of
the board of trustees to exercise the powers of the board, with certain
exceptions.

At January 31, 1997, the trustees and officers as a group owned
beneficially the following percentages of the outstanding shares of the Funds:
Select, 10.2%; Small Cap, 2.0%; Balanced, 22.5%; International Small Cap, 9.6%;
Oakmark and International, less than 1%.

The following table shows the compensation paid by the Trust in the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1996 to each trustee who was not an "interested person"
of the Trust:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Aggregate
Compensation
Name of Trustee from the Trust*
<S> <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Christine M. Maki $18,500
Michael J. Friduss 18,500
Thomas H. Hayden 17,000
Allan J. Reich 17,500
Marv R. Rotter 16,000
Burton W. Ruder 17,000
Gary N. Wilner, M.D. 19,000
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The Trust is not part of a fund complex.

Other trustees who are "interested persons" of The Trust, as well as the
officers of the Trust, are compensated by the Adviser and not by The Trust. The
Trust does not provide any pension or retirement benefits to its trustees.

15
<PAGE>

PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS

The only persons known by the Trust to own of record or "beneficially"
(within the meaning of that term as defined in rule 13d-3 under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934) 5% or more of the outstanding shares of any Fund as of
January 31, 1997 were William C. Nygren, who owned beneficially 6.5% of the
shares of Select Fund, and Clyde and Joan McGregor, who collectively owned
beneficially 14.8% of the shares of Balanced Fund. The address of those
shareholders is Suite 500, Two North La Salle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60602.

PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES

Purchases and redemptions are discussed in the Funds' prospectus under the
headings "How to Purchase Shares," "How to Redeem Shares," and "Shareholder
Services." All of that information is incorporated herein by reference.

The net asset value per share of each Fund is determined by the Trust's
custodian, State Street Bank and Trust Company. Securities traded on securities
exchanges, or in the over-the-counter market in which transaction prices are
reported on the NASDAQ National Market System, are valued at the last sales
prices at the time of valuation or, lacking any reported sales on that day, at
the most recent bid quotations. Other securities traded over-the-counter are
also valued at the most recent bid quotations. Money market instruments having
a maturity of 60 days or less from the valuation date are valued on an amortized
cost basis. The values of securities of foreign issuers are generally based
upon market quotations which, depending upon local convention or regulation, may
be last sale price, last bid or asked price, or the mean between last bid and
asked prices as of, in each case, the close of the appropriate exchange or other
designated time. Securities for which quotations are not available and any
other assets are valued at a fair value as determined in good faith by the board
of trustees. All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign
currencies are converted into U.S. dollars at the mean of the bid and offer
prices of such currencies against U.S. dollars quoted by any major bank or
dealer. If such quotations are not available, the rate of exchange will be
determined in accordance with policies established in good faith by the Board.

The Funds' net asset values are determined only on days on which the New
York Stock Exchange is open for trading. The Exchange is regularly closed on
Saturdays and Sundays and on New Year's Day, the third Monday in February, Good
Friday, the last Monday in May, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and
Christmas. If one of these holidays falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the Exchange
will be closed on the preceding Friday or the following Monday, respectively.

Trading in the portfolio securities of International Fund or International
Small Cap Fund (and of any other Fund, to the extent it invests in securities of
non-U.S. issuers) takes place in various foreign markets on certain days (such
as Saturday) when the Fund is not open for business and does not calculate its
net asset value. In addition, trading in the Fund's portfolio securities may
not occur on days when the Fund is open. Therefore, the calculation of net
asset value does not take place contemporaneously with the determinations of the
prices of many of the Fund's portfolio securities and the value of the Fund's
portfolio may be significantly affected on days when shares of the Fund may not
be purchased or redeemed.

Computation of net asset value (and the sale and redemption of a Fund's
shares) may be suspended or postponed during any period when (a) trading on the
New York Stock Exchange is restricted, as determined by the Securities and
Exchange Commission, or that exchange is closed for other than customary weekend
and holiday closings, (b) the Commission has by order permitted such suspension,
or (c) an emergency, as determined by the Commission, exists

16
<PAGE>

making disposal of portfolio securities or valuation of the net assets of a Fund
not reasonably practicable.

Shares of any of the Funds may be purchased through certain financial
service companies, without incurring any transaction fee. For services provided
by such a company with respect to Fund shares held by that company for its
customers, the company may charge a fee of up to 0.30% of the annual average
value of those accounts. Each Fund may pay a portion of those fees, not to
exceed the estimated fees that the Fund would pay to its own transfer agent if
the shares of the Fund held by such customers of the company were registered
directly in their names on the books of the Fund's transfer agent. The balance
of those fees are paid by the Adviser.

The Trust has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act
pursuant to which it is obligated to redeem shares solely in cash up to the
lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of a Fund during any 90-day
period for any one shareholder. Redemptions in excess of the above amounts will
normally be paid in cash, but may be paid wholly or partly by a distribution in
kind of marketable securities.

Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining small accounts, the Trust
reserves the right to redeem at net asset value the shares of any shareholder
whose account in any Fund has a value of less than the minimum amount specified
by the board of trustees, which currently is $1,000. Before such a redemption,
the shareholder will be notified that the account value is less than the minimum
and will be allowed at least 30 days to bring the value of the account up to the
minimum. The agreement and declaration of trust also authorizes the Trust to
redeem shares under certain other circumstances as may be specified by the board
of trustees.

In connection with the Exchange Plan, the Adviser acts as a Service
Organization for the Government Portfolio and the Tax-Exempt Diversified
Portfolio of Goldman Sachs Money Market Trust and the GS Short Duration Fund
Portfolio of Goldman Sachs Trust. For its services it receives fees at rates of
up to .50% of the average annual net assets of each account in those portfolios
established through the Exchange Plan, pursuant to 12b-1 plans adopted by those
investment companies.

ADDITIONAL TAX INFORMATION

General. Each Fund intends to continue to qualify to be taxed as a
regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, so as to be relieved of federal income tax on its capital gains and net
investment income currently distributed to its shareholders. At the time of your
purchase, a Fund's net asset value may reflect undistributed income, capital
gains or net unrealized appreciation of securities held by that Fund. A
subsequent distribution to you of such amounts, although constituting a return
of your investment, would be taxable either as dividends or capital gain
distributions.

International Fund and International Small Cap Fund. Dividends and
distributions paid by International Fund and International Small Cap Fund are
not eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders, if
as expected, none of such Funds' income consists of dividends paid by United
States corporations. Capital gain distributions paid by the Funds are never
eligible for this deduction.

Certain foreign currency gains and losses, including the portion of gain or
loss on the sale of debt securities attributable to foreign exchange rate
fluctuations are taxable as ordinary income. If the net effect of these
transactions is a gain, the dividend paid by either of these Funds will be

17
<PAGE>

increased; if the result is a loss, the income dividend paid by either of these
Funds will be decreased.

Income received by International Fund or International Small Cap Fund from
sources within various foreign countries will be subject to foreign income taxes
withheld at the source. Under the Code, if more than 50% of the value of the
Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year comprise securities issued
by foreign corporations, the Fund may file an election with the Internal Revenue
Service to "pass through" to the Fund's shareholders the amount of foreign
income taxes paid by the Fund. Pursuant to this election, shareholders will be
required to: (i) include in gross income, even though not actually received,
their respective pro rata share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund; (ii) treat
their pro rata share of foreign taxes as paid by them; and (iii) either deduct
their pro rata share of foreign taxes in computing their taxable income, or use
it as a foreign tax credit against U.S. income taxes (but not both). No
deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by a shareholder who does not itemize
deductions.

Both International Fund and International Small Cap Fund intend to meet the
requirements of the Code to "pass through" to its shareholders foreign income
taxes paid, but there can be no assurance that a Fund will be able to do so.
Each shareholder will be notified within 60 days after the close of each taxable
year of a Fund, if the foreign taxes paid by the Fund will "pass through" for
that year, and, if so, the amount of each shareholder's pro rata share (by
country) of (i) the foreign taxes paid, and (ii) the Fund's gross income from
foreign sources. Of course, shareholders who are not liable for federal income
taxes, such as retirement plans qualified under Section 401 of the Code, will
not be affected by any such "pass through" of foreign tax credits.

TAXATION OF FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS

The Code provides that dividends from net income (which are deemed to
include for this purpose each shareholder's pro rata share of foreign taxes paid
by International Fund and International Small Cap Fund (see discussion of "pass
through" of the foreign tax credit to U.S. shareholders), will be subject to
U.S. tax. For shareholders who are not engaged in a business in the U.S., this
tax would be imposed at the rate of 30% upon the gross amount of the dividend in
the absence of a Tax Treaty providing for a reduced rate or exemption from U.S.
taxation. Distributions of net long-term capital gains realized by these Funds
are not subject to tax unless the foreign shareholder is a nonresident alien
individual who was physically present in the U.S. during the tax year for more
than 182 days.

PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS

Portfolio transactions for each Fund are placed with those securities
brokers and dealers that the Adviser believes will provide the best value in
transaction and research services for that Fund, either in a particular
transaction or over a period of time. Subject to that standard, portfolio
transactions for each Fund may be executed through Harris Associates Securities
L.P. ("HASLP"), a registered broker-dealer and an affiliate of the Adviser.

In valuing brokerage services, the Adviser makes a judgment as to which
brokers are capable of providing the most favorable net price (not necessarily
the lowest commission) and the best execution in a particular transaction. Best
execution connotes not only general competence and reliability of a broker, but
specific expertise and effort of a broker in overcoming the anticipated
difficulties in fulfilling the requirements of particular transactions, because
the problems of execution and the required skills and effort vary greatly among
transactions.

18
<PAGE>

Although some transactions involve only brokerage services, many involve
research services as well. In valuing research services, the Adviser makes a
judgment of the usefulness of research and other information provided by a
broker to the Adviser in managing a Fund's investment portfolio. In some cases,
the information, e.g., data or recommendations concerning particular securities,
relates to the specific transaction placed with the broker, but for the greater
part the research consists of a wide variety of information concerning
companies, industries, investment strategy and economic, financial and political
conditions and prospects, useful to the Adviser in advising the Funds.

The Adviser is the principal source of information and advice to the Funds,
and is responsible for making and initiating the execution of the investment
decisions for each Fund. However, the board of trustees recognizes that it is
important for the Adviser, in performing its responsibilities to the Funds, to
continue to receive and evaluate the broad spectrum of economic and financial
information that many securities brokers have customarily furnished in
connection with brokerage transactions, and that in compensating brokers for
their services, it is in the interest of the Funds to take into account the
value of the information received for use in advising the Funds. Consequently,
the commission paid to brokers (other than HASLP) providing research services
may be greater than the amount of commission another broker would charge for the
same transaction. The extent, if any, to which the obtaining of such
information may reduce the expenses of the Adviser in providing management
services to the Funds is not determinable. In addition, it is understood by the
board of trustees that other clients of the Adviser might also benefit from the
information obtained for the Funds, in the same manner that the Funds might also
benefit from information obtained by the Adviser in performing services to
others.

HASLP may act as broker for a Fund in connection with the purchase or sale
of securities by or to the Fund if and to the extent permitted by procedures
adopted from time to time by the board of trustees of the Trust. The board of
trustees, including a majority of the trustees who are not "interested"
trustees, has determined that portfolio transactions for a Fund may be executed
through HASLP if, in the judgment of the Adviser, the use of HASLP is likely to
result in prices and execution at least as favorable to the Fund as those
available from other qualified brokers and if, in such transactions, HASLP
charges the Fund commission rates at least as favorable to the Fund as those
charged by HASLP to comparable unaffiliated customers in similar transactions.
The board of trustees has also adopted procedures that are reasonably designed
to provide that any commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to HASLP are
consistent with the foregoing standard. The Funds will not effect principal
transactions with HASLP. In executing transactions through HASLP, the Funds
will be subject to, and intend to comply with, section 17(e) of the 1940 Act and
rules thereunder.

The reasonableness of brokerage commissions paid by the Funds in relation
to transaction and research services received is evaluated by the staff of the
Adviser on an ongoing basis. The general level of brokerage charges and other
aspects of the Funds' portfolio transactions are reviewed periodically by the
board of trustees.

Transactions of the Funds in the over-the-counter market and the third
market are executed with primary market makers acting as principal except where
it is believed that better prices and execution may be obtained otherwise.

Although investment decisions for the Funds are made independently from
those for other investment advisory clients of the Adviser, it may develop that
the same investment decision is made for both a Fund and one or more other
advisory clients. If both a Fund and other clients purchase or sell the same
class of securities on the same day, the transactions will be allocated as to
amount and price in a manner considered equitable to each.

<PAGE>

The Funds do not purchase securities with a view to rapid turnover.
However, there are no limitations on the length of time that portfolio
securities must be held. Portfolio turnover can occur for a number of reasons,
including general conditions in the securities market, more favorable investment
opportunities in other securities, or other factors relating to the desirability
of holding or changing a portfolio investment. A high rate of portfolio
turnover would result in increased transaction expense, which must be borne by
the Fund. High portfolio turnover may also result in the realization of capital
gains or losses and, to the extent net short-term capital gains are realized,
any distributions resulting from such gains will be considered ordinary income
for federal income tax purposes. The portfolio turnover rates for Oakmark Fund
and International Fund are set forth in the prospectus under "Financial
Highlights." The portfolio turnover rate of each of Select Fund, Small Cap
Fund, Balanced Fund and International Small Cap Fund is not expected to exceed
100%.

The following table shows the aggregate brokerage commissions (excluding
the gross underwriting spread on securities purchased in initial public
offerings) paid by each Fund other than Select Fund during the periods
indicated, as well as the aggregate commissions paid to affiliated persons of
the Trust. Select Fund had not commenced operations as of October 31, 1996.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
------------------------------------------------------------
1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Oakmark Fund
Aggregate commissions............ $2,863,961 (100%) $2,100,849 (100%) $1,594,102 (100%)
Commissions paid to affiliates*.. 1,192,641 (41.6%) 389,339 (18.5%) 244,055 (15%)

Small Cap Fund
Aggregate commissions............ 404,602 (100%) -- --
Commissions paid to affiliates*.. 132,729 (32.8%) -- --

Balanced Fund
Aggregate commission............. 19,797 (100%) -- --
Commissions paid to affiliates*.. 14,487 (73.2%) -- --

International Fund
Aggregate commissions............ 2,804,611 (100%) 2,609,780 (100%) 5,170,141 (100%)
Commissions paid to affiliates*.. 82,872 (3.0%) 71,600 (2.7%) 6,980 (0.1%)

International Small Cap Fund
Aggregate commissions............ 198,847 (100%) -- --
Commissions paid to affiliates*.. 6,128 (3.1%) -- --
- --------------------------

</TABLE>

* The percent of the dollar amount of each Fund's aggregate transactions
involving the Fund's payment of brokerage commissions that were executed
through affiliates for each of the years is shown below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Year Ended October 31,
---------------------------------
Fund 1996 1995 1994
---- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Oakmark 47.0% 7.5% 17.0%
Small Cap 40.0 - -
Balanced 78.0 - -
International 5.0 1.6 0.3
International Small Cap 0.4 - -
</TABLE>

20
<PAGE>

Of the aggregate brokerage commissions paid during the 1996 fiscal year,
the Funds paid the following commissions to brokers who furnished research
services: Oakmark, $77,639; Small Cap, $8,902; Balanced, $312; International,
$28; International Small Cap, $0.

DECLARATION OF TRUST

The Agreement and Declaration of Trust under which the Trust has been
organized ("Declaration of Trust") disclaims liability of the shareholders,
trustees and officers of the Trust for acts or obligations of the Trust and
requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation,
or contract entered into or executed by the Trust or the board of trustees. The
Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Trust's assets for
all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally liable for
obligations of the Trust. Thus, although shareholders of a business trust may,
under certain circumstances, be held personally liable under Massachusetts law
for the obligations of the Trust, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial
loss on account of shareholder liability is believed to be remote because it is
limited to circumstances in which the disclaimer is inoperative and the Trust
itself is unable to meet its obligations. The risk to any one series of
sustaining a loss on account of liabilities incurred by another series is also
believed to be remote.

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company, P.O. Box 8510, Boston Massachusetts
02266-8510 is the custodian for the Trust. It is responsible for holding all
securities and cash of each Fund, receiving and paying for securities purchased,
delivering against payment securities sold, receiving and collecting income from
investments, making all payments covering expenses of the Funds, and performing
other administrative duties, all as directed by authorized persons of the Trust.
The custodian also performs certain portfolio accounting services for the Funds,
for which each Fund pays the custodian a monthly fee. The fee paid by Oakmark
Fund is $2,500 per month. The fee paid by Oakmark International is $3,000 per
month. The fee paid by each of Select Fund, Small Cap Fund and Balanced Fund is
$2,500 per month and the fee paid by International Small Cap Fund is $3,000 per
month, which fees have been waived during the first six months of operations of
each of the Funds. The custodian does not exercise any supervisory function in
such matters as the purchase and sale of portfolio securities, payment of
dividends, or payment of expenses of a Fund. The Trust has authorized the
custodian to deposit certain portfolio securities of each Fund in central
depository systems as permitted under federal law. The Funds may invest in
obligations of the custodian and may purchase or sell securities from or to the
custodian.

INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Arthur Andersen LLP, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603, audits
and reports on each Fund's annual financial statements, reviews certain
regulatory reports and the Funds' federal income tax returns, and performs other
professional accounting, auditing, tax and advisory services when engaged to do
so by the Trust.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Copies of the annual reports for each Fund other than Select Fund for the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1996 accompany this Statement of Additional
Information. Those reports contain financial statements, notes thereto,
supplementary information entitled "Condensed Financial Information" and reports
of independent auditors, all of which (but no other part of the

21
<PAGE>

reports), as well as the unaudited financial statements of Select Fund and the
notes thereto that also accompany this Statement of Additional Information, are
incorporated herein by reference.

A copy of the Funds' Prospectus and additional copies of the reports to
shareholders may be obtained from the Trust at no charge by writing to the Trust
at the address shown on the cover page of this statement of additional
information, or by telephoning the number shown on the cover page.

APPENDIX -- BOND RATINGS

A rating by a rating service represents the service's opinion as to the
credit quality of the security being rated. However, the ratings are general
and are not absolute standards of quality or guarantees as to the credit-
worthiness of an issuer. Consequently, the Adviser believes that the quality of
debt securities in which the Fund invests should be continuously reviewed and
that individual analysts give different weightings to the various factors
involved in credit analysis. A rating is not a recommendation to purchase,
sell, or hold a security, because it does not take into account market value or
suitability for a particular investor. When a security has received a rating
from more than one service, each rating should be evaluated independently.
Ratings are based on current information furnished by the issuer or obtained by
the rating services from other sources which they consider reliable. Ratings
may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in or
unavailability of such information, or for other reasons.

The following is a description of the characteristics of ratings used by
Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") and Standard & Poor's Corporation
("S&P").

Ratings by Moody's:

Aaa. Bonds rated Aaa are judged to be the best quality. They carry the
smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge."
Interest payments are protected by a large or an exceptionally stable margin and
principal is secure. Although the various protective elements are likely to
change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such bonds.

Aa. Bonds rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high-grade
bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection
may not be as large as in the Aaa bonds, fluctuation of protective elements may
be of greater amplitude, or there may be other elements present which make the
long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa bonds.

A. Bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to
be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.

Baa. Bonds rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations, i.e.,
they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and
principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.

Ba. Bonds rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future
cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest and
principal payments may be very

22
<PAGE>

moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.

B. Bonds rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.

Caa. Bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default
or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.

Ca. Bonds rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative in a high
degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.

C. Bonds rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and issues so rated
can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing.

Ratings By Standard & Poor's:

AAA. Debt rated AAA has the highest rating. Capacity to pay interest and
repay principal is extremely strong.

AA. Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in a small degree.

A. Debt rated A has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated
categories.

BBB. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions, or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than for debt in higher rated categories.

BB-B-CCC-CC. Bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest
and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. While such
bonds will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are
outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.

C. This rating is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is being
paid.

D. Debt rated D is in default, and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.

NOTE: The ratings from AA to B may be modified by the addition of a plus
(+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating
categories.

23
<PAGE>
The Oakmark Select Fund January 31, 1996

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
The Oakmark Select Fund
Schedule of Investments -- January 31, 1997 (Unaudited)
Market
Shares Held Value
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
COMMON STOCKS - 98.6%

OTHER CONSUMER GOODS & SERVICES - 8.2%
160,900 Brunswick Corporation 4,042,612
86,000 Polaroid 3,784,000
---------
7,826,612

BANKS - 3.8%
109,000 Peoples Bank of Bridgeport Connecticut 3,624,250

INSURANCE - 4.4%
117,000 PartnerRe Ltd. 4,153,500

OTHER FINANCIAL - 16.9%
317,000 First USA, Inc. 16,048,125

BROADCASTING & CABLE TV - 11.4%
219,000 U.S. West Media Group 4,078,875
447,000 TCI Satellite Entertainment, Inc. Class A (a) 3,631,875
101,000 Cablevision Systems Corporation (a) 3,168,875
---------
10,879,625

TV PROGRAMMING - 15.5%
774,500 TCI Communications, Inc. (a) 14,715,500

PUBLISHING - 8.5%
177,000 Dun & Bradstreet Corporation 4,248,000
235,700 ACNielson Corporation 3,859,588
---------
8,107,588

DATA STORAGE - 2.9%
94,500 Imation Corporation (a) 2,752,313

AEROSPACE & DEFENSE - 7.9%
112,000 McDonnell Douglas Corporation 7,532,000

</TABLE>
<PAGE>
The Oakmark Select Fund January 31, 1996

OIL & NATURAL GAS - 3.7%
275,000 Titan Exploration, Inc. 3,471,875

OTHER INDUSTRIAL GOODS & SERVICES - 5.7%
165,000 Premark International, Inc. 3,795,000
40,000 SPX Corporation 1,625,000
---------
5,420,000

DIVERSIFIED CONGLOMERATES - 6.3%
176,000 U.S. Industries, Inc. (a) 5,962,000

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS 93,735,263

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 8.0%

COMMERCIAL PAPER - 6.3%
Face Amount Commercial Paper
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,000,000 American Express Credit Corporation, 5.38% due 2/3/97 2,000,000
2,000,000 Ford Motor Credit Corp., 5.35% due 2/4/97 2,000,000
2,000,000 General Electric Capital Corporation, 5.48% due 2/3/97 2,000,000

TOTAL COMMERCIAL PAPER 6,000,000

REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS - 1.7%
Face Amount Repurchase Agreements
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,560,000 State Street Repurchase Agreement, 5.47% due 2/3/97 1,560,000
Collateralized by US Treasury Securities

TOTAL REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS 1,560,000

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS 7,560,000

</TABLE>

<PAGE>
The Oakmark Select Fund January 31, 1996

Total Investments - 106.6% 101,295,263
Other liabilites, less other assets - (6.6%) (6,267,192)
----------
TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100% $95,028,071
===========
</TABLE>
- -------------
Notes:
(a) Non-income producing security.

<PAGE>

The Oakmark Select Fund
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
January 31, 1997 (Unaudited)

Assets
- ------
<S> <C> <C>
Investments, at value (cost: $90,540,910) $101,295,263
Cash 426
Receivable for:
Securities Sold 0
Fund Shares Sold 1,643,595
Dividends and Interest 44,735
---------
Total Receivables 1,688,330
Miscellaneous Assets 54,742
------------
103,038,760

Liabilities and Net Assets
- --------------------------
Payable for:
Securities Purchased 7,817,908
Fund shares redeemed 0
Due to Adviser 68,258
Other 124,523
---------
Total liabilities 8,010,689
------------

Net assets applicable to Fund shares outstanding $95,028,071
============

Fund Shares Outstanding 7,604,679
============

Pricing of Shares
- -----------------

Net asset value per share $12.50
============

Analysis of Net Assets
- ----------------------
Paid in Capital $84,286,741
Accumulated undistributed net realized gain on sale of investments
and foreign exchange currency contracts 11,375
Net unrealized appreciation of investments 10,754,353
Accumulated undistributed net investment income (loss) (24,397)
------------
Net assets applicable to Fund shares outstanding $95,028,071
============
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to financial statements.
<PAGE>

The Oakmark Select Fund
Statement of Operations - January 31, 1997

Three Months Ended
January 31, 1996
------------------
(Unaudited)
<S> <C>
Investment Income
Dividends $83,169
Interest Income - CP 56,108
Interest Income - Bonds 0
Other Income 0
Total investment income 139,277
-----------

Expenses:
Investment advisory fee 68,258
Transfer and dividend disbursing agent fees 21,309
Custodian and accounting fees 4,784
Legal fees 3,526
Audit fees 5,114
Trustees fees 2,333
Registration and blue sky expenses 47,351
Reports to shareholders 761
Amortization of organization cost 177
Other - net 10,584
-----------
Total expenses 164,196
Expense Offset Arrangements (522)
-----------
Net Expenses 163,675
-----------

Net investment income (loss) (24,397)

Net realized and unrealized gain on investments:
Net realized gain on sale of investments 11,375
Net change in unrealized appreciation 10,754,353
-----------
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments 10,765,728
-----------

-----------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $10,741,330
===========
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to financial statements.
<PAGE>

The Oakmark Select Fund
Statement of Changes in Net Assets - January 31, 1997

Three Months Ended
January 31,1996
------------------
(Unaudited)
<S> <C>
From Operations:
Net investment income (loss) ($24,397)
Net realized gain on sale of investments 11,375
Net change in unrealized appreciation 10,754,353
------------
Net increase in net assets from operations 10,741,330

Distributions to shareholders from:
Net investment income 0
Net realized short-term gain 0
Net realized long-term gain 0
------------
Total Distributions to Shareholders 0
------------

From Fund share transactions:
Reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions 0
Proceeds from shares sold, net of fees 87,356,751
Payments for shares redeemed, net of fees (3,070,010)
------------
Net increase in net assets from Fund share transactions 84,286,741
------------

Total increase in net assets 95,028,071
Net assets:
Beginning of period 0
------------
End of period (including undistributed net investment loss of $24,397) $95,028,071
============
</TABLE>

See accompanying notes to financial statements.
<PAGE>

HARRIS ASSOCIATES INVESTMENT TRUST
THE OAKMARK SELECT FUND

1. Significant Accounting Policies

The following are the significant accounting policies of The Oakmark Select
Fund ("The Fund"), a series of the Harris Associates Investment Trust (a
Massachusetts business trust). These policies are in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). The presentation of financial
statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates and assumptions.

Security valuation --

Investments are stated at current value. Securities traded on securities
exchanges and securities traded on the NASDAQ National Market are valued at the
last sales price on the day of valuation, or if lacking any reported sales that
day, at the most recent bid quotation. Over-the-counter securities not so
traded are valued at the most recent bid quotation. Money market instruments
having a maturity of 60 days or less from the date of valuation are valued on an
amortized cost basis which approximates market value. Securities for which
quotations are not readily available are valued at a fair value as determined by
the Trustees.

Security transactions and investment income --

Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date (date the order to
buy or sell is executed) and dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend
date. Interest income and expenses are recorded on the accrual basis.

Fund shares are sold and redeemed on a continuing basis at net asset value.
Net asset value per share is determined daily as of the close of regular trading
on the New York Stock Exchange on each day the Exchange is open for trading by
dividing the total value of the Fund's investments and other assets, less
liabilities, by the number of Fund shares outstanding.

Federal income taxes, dividends and distributions to shareholders --

No provision is made for Federal income taxes since the Funds elect to be
taxed as "regulated investment companies" and make such distributions to their
shareholders as to be relieved of all Federal income taxes under provisions of
current Federal tax law.

2. Transactions with affiliates

The Fund has an investment advisory agreement with Harris Associates L.P.
(Adviser). For management services and facilities furnished, the Fund pays the
Adviser monthly fees at an annual rate of 1.00 percent. This fee is calculated
on the total net assets as determined at the end of each preceding calendar
month. The investment advisory agreement of the Fund provides that the Adviser
will reimburse the Fund to the extent that annual expenses, excluding certain
expenses, exceed 2.5% of average net assets. For the three months ended January
31, 1997, it was not necessary for the Adviser to reimburse expenses incurred by
the Fund.

In connection with the organization of the Fund, expenses of approximately
$3,543 were advanced to the Fund by the Adviser. These expenses are being
amortized on a straight line basis through October, 2001. Registration expenses
of approximately $62,282 were advanced to the Fund by the Adviser. Registration
expenses will be amortized over the year ended October 31, 1997.

During the three months ended January 31, 1997, the Fund incurred brokerage
commissions of $118,678 of which 91,583 was paid to an affiliate of the Adviser.
<PAGE>

3. Fund share transactions

Proceeds and payments on Fund shares as shown in the statement of changes in
net assets are in respect of the following number of shares (in thousands):

Three Months Ended January 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Select Fund
-----------
<S> <C>

Shares sold 7,872,245
Shares issued in reinvestment of dividends 0
Less shares redeemed (267,566)
---------

Net increase in shares outstanding 7,604,679
=========

</TABLE>

4. Investment transactions

Transactions in investment securities (excluding short term securities) were as
follows:

Select
------

Purchases $83,043,910
Proceeds from Sales 74,375

<PAGE>

The Oakmark Select Fund
Financial Highlights
For a Share Outstanding throughout the period

Three Months
Ended
January 31, 1997
----------------
(Unaudited)

<S> <C>
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $10.00
Income From Investment Operations:
Net Investment Income (Loss) (0.00)
Net Gains or Losses on Securities (both
realized and unrealized) 2.50
--------
Total From Investment Operations: 2.50

Less Distributions:
Dividends (from net investment income) 0.00
Distributions (from capital gains) 0.00
--------
Total Distributions 0.00

Net Asset Value, End of Period $12.50
========

Total Return 25%
Ratios/Supplemental Data:
Net Assets, End of Period ($million) $95.03
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets 1.41%*
Ratio of Net Income (Loss) to Average Net Assets -0.21%*
Portfolio Turnover Rate 0.13%
Average Commission Rate Paid $0.0586
</TABLE>

Notes
- -----
* Ratios have been determined on an annualized basis using daily average
net assets.