Here’s something you may not know: applying to college can cost money, with colleges charging anywhere from $20 to $100 to submit an application. Those fees can add up, even if you’re only applying to a handful of schools. But there’s good news: an application fee waiver may be available.
Fee waivers, like fees themselves, will vary depending on the college. Some colleges offer them based on financial need or a hardship that a student may be experiencing. If you would like to know if you’re eligible for a fee waiver, the best place to start is with the admissions office. Call and speak to an admissions representative. Explain why paying the application fee may be a hindrance to you applying to the school.
Who Receives a Fee Waiver?
Some colleges offer fee waivers to students who meet certain criteria, such as:
- Being a homeless student, ward of the court, or orphan
- Participating in a federal program that helps low-income students, such as TRIO or GEAR UP
- Meeting financial need test criteria, such as receiving public assistance, food stamps, or subsidized housing
- Being a Veteran of the armed forces
- Qualifying for an ACT or SAT fee waiver based on income
- Being a first-generation college student
Other colleges may offer fee waivers to those students who attend campus tours or open house programs. Colleges may also waive the application fee for every student who lives in the city or state where the school is located.
In addition, if you’re accepted to a college through direct admissions, it’s common for the college to waive your application fee.
And finally, college application events held at high schools or college access organizations often offer fee waivers to students who apply to certain colleges at the event.
What Are Common App Fee Waivers?
The Common App automatically grants fee waivers to students who meet certain criteria, including many of the ones listed above. You can view the full list of qualifications on the Common App website. To receive a fee waiver (which will be applicable to all schools you apply to through the Common App), complete the fee waiver section within your Common App Profile.
To find out more information about fee waivers or to discuss how college application fees are preventing you from applying to college, talk to your school counselor for assistance.
