How to Get a College Application Fee Waiver in 2024

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How to Get a College Application Fee Waiver

The excitement of college applications can quickly be dampened by the mounting costs. With application fees averaging $50 per school and aspirations often exceeding just one dream institution, the financial burden can feel daunting. But don’t worry! You don’t have to let those fees affect your dreams because we’ll introduce you to a need-based college application fee waiver. We’ll make sure your academic potential determines your college journey, not your wallet.

Imagine applying to your top choices with confidence, knowing the finances don’t restrict your exploration. Curious about how to get the college application fee waiver? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, sharing eligibility, application procedures, and resources to help you overcome the fee barrier.

Table of Contents

What is a College Application Fee Waiver?

Many colleges and universities require application fees to consider students for enrollment. While these fees help cover administrative costs, they can create a significant financial barrier for many students. This, coupled with additional expenses like standardized testing fees, travel costs, and AP exams, can make the college application process feel overwhelming and inaccessible.

Fortunately, there is a way to avoid this expense. A college application fee waiver is a program offered by many institutions that allows eligible students to apply without paying the standard application fee. These waivers can be a significant financial relief, considering that application fees can range from $30 to $100 or more per school. It’s especially beneficial for students who are applying to multiple schools or who come from families with limited financial means.

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Who Qualifies for a College Application Fee Waiver?

Many students qualify for college application fee waivers, and the specific criteria can vary depending on the college, the application platform, and even your location. However, some common eligibility factors include the following:

Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program: Participation in this program often indicates financial need and qualifies you for waivers from many colleges and application platforms.

Income eligibility guidelines: Your family income falling within the USDA Food and Nutrition Service guidelines often qualifies you for waivers.

Public Assistance: Receiving public assistance like SNAP or TANF can make you eligible.

Fee waivers from testing agencies: If you received a fee waiver for the SAT exam, ACT, or NACAC college fairs, you might be eligible for application fee waivers as well.

Military affiliation: Active-duty military members and veterans sometimes qualify for waivers.

Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements of each college and the application platform you’re interested in. They may have additional criteria beyond what’s listed here.

6 Ways to Get College Application Fees Waiver in US

1. Get an SAT or ACT waiver

One of the most common ways to qualify for a college application fee waiver is by having received a fee waiver for the SAT or ACT exam. These fee waivers are typically granted based on the following criteria:

Enrollment in the Federal Free or Reduced-Price Lunch (FRPL) program: This program provides meals to students from low-income families.

Meeting the income eligibility guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS): These guidelines are based on household size and income.

Receiving public assistance or participating in another low-income program offered by the local, state, or federal government: Examples include programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Being an orphan or ward of the state: This means that you have lost one or both biological parents and are under the care of the state.

2. Apply for the Common App fee waiver

The Common App makes it easier to waive college application fees for students facing financial hardship. If you’re considering any of the 1000+ colleges using the Common App, you can request a fee waiver based on:

Automatic eligibility: Having received an SAT/ACT fee waiver or meeting other common eligibility criteria (e.g., free/reduced lunch program, low-income family program participation).

Individual verification: Having a school official or community leader vouch for your financial needs. This option is useful if you’ve already used waivers from NACAC or the College Board but face further application costs.

3. Apply for the NACAC application fee waiver

Students who didn’t take the SAT or are applying to more than four schools can request a waiver through the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). Complete the NACAC Request for Application Fee Waiver with the help of your high school counselor. Suggested annual family income guidelines for this waiver depend on family size, but income isn’t the only determining factor; counselors use their discretion based on family circumstances.

The National College Fairs Program also offers waivers, but the process differs. You’ll need to fill out an “Economic Need” section and explain your situation. Confirmation from a school official or community-based organization is required.

4. Apply for the Coalition App fee waiver

Many colleges within the Coalition for Colleges offer application fee waivers to make their application process more accessible. You can easily qualify for a waiver if you meet any of the following criteria:

Participation in the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program (FRLP)
Eligibility for a fee waiver from the College Board, ACT, or National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
Qualifications for a Pell Grant
Enrollment in a TRIO program, which supports low-income and first-generation students
Active service or veteran status

Simply indicate your eligibility within your Coalition for College profile, and the application fee will be automatically waived for participating schools.

5. Apple to SUNY colleges

Students facing significant financial hardship can request a fee waiver for their SUNY application by having their school counselor complete and submit a SUNY Fee Waiver Request Form.

SUNY waives the $50 application fee for up to seven college choices for eligible students. Select “Fee Waiver” as your payment method when submitting your application. If your request is denied, you’ll need to pay the fee before your application is processed.

6. Ask the college for a fee waiver

Many colleges and universities understand that application fees can be a barrier for some students. To address this, they offer direct fee waivers, providing eligible applicants with the opportunity to apply without the financial burden. These waivers are typically offered based on financial need, academic merit, or specific demographics. Here are some ways to find out if you qualify for a fee waiver:

Check the college’s website: Most colleges clearly state their fee waiver policies and eligibility criteria on their admissions webpage. Look for keywords like “fee waiver”, “application fee assistance”, or “financial aid”.

Contact the admissions office directly: Don’t hesitate to call or email the admissions office of your desired colleges. They can provide specific information about their fee waiver process and any additional requirements.

7. Apply to colleges without application fees

Did you know there are over 100 colleges and universities in the US that don’t charge application fees? That’s right, you can explore a wide range of educational opportunities without worrying about upfront costs adding to your college application stress. Don’t limit yourself to familiar names. Research lesser-known institutions that excel in specific fields or offer unique learning environments. You might be surprised by what you discover!

While many colleges offer no-fee applications, some may have specific eligibility requirements, like demonstrated financial need or in-state residency. Be sure to check the details carefully.

From the Desk of Yocket

College application fee waivers are crucial to promoting equitable access to higher education. On one hand, they alleviate the financial burden associated with applying to colleges, which can be a significant barrier for low-income and underprivileged students. This allows them to explore a wider range of educational options without being restricted by upfront costs. Consequently, fee waivers can contribute to diversifying college campuses and enriching the learning experience for everyone.

Furthermore, application fees can discourage even qualified students from applying, leading to missed opportunities and talent going undiscovered. Waivers help ensure that colleges receive applications from a broader pool of candidates. It allows them to select the best fit based on merit and potential rather than financial capacity. This equally benefits both institutions and individual students. Additionally, Yocket provide valuable guidance to students throughout the application process, offering insights, resources, and support to navigate the complexities of college admissions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a college application fee waiver?

A college application fee waiver allows you to apply to a college without paying the application fee. This can be a significant financial relief, especially if you are planning to apply to many colleges.

What if my application for a fee waiver is denied?

If your application for a fee waiver is denied, you can try to appeal the decision by contacting the college’s admissions office. Be prepared to provide additional documentation to support your claim.

Who is eligible for a college application fee waiver?

There are several ways to qualify for a college application fee waiver. Some of the most common criteria include financial need, receiving an SAT or ACT fee waiver, being a first-generation college student, military affiliation, and minority status.

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February 15, 2024