How to Get a College Application Fee Waiver

The costs of applying to college can quickly add up, especially if you plan to apply to more than one school. The average application fee is $50 per school. Some are less, but some colleges and universities can charge even more. However, you can apply for a need-based college application fee waiver. Here’s how the process works.

Many colleges and universities charge an application fee to consider a student for enrollment. The fee helps cover the administrative costs of processing each application and limits the pool of applicants to those who are serious about attending. In addition, other relevant expenses increase the costs of applying to college, including SAT fees, AP testing fees, and travel to tour prospective schools.

But for many people, college application fees are a major financial roadblock to seeking education. Learn how to get an application fee waiver for all the schools you’re considering.

Students must qualify for a college application fee waiver based on financial need. The requirements vary based on different types of waivers. Some schools use the same criteria as SAT or ACT waivers, while others use things like free lunch enrollment to determine eligibility.

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of schools you’d like to apply to, research how to qualify for an application fee waiver for each one since eligibility may differ.

Explore programs from schools that offer an application fee waiver.

Here are common strategies to get your application fee waived when applying to college.

One of the most common eligibility guidelines colleges use to waive the application fee is if you got a fee waiver for the SAT or ACT exam. Students qualify based on:

If you’re using the Common App to apply to any of the roughly 950 participating colleges and universities, you can also request a fee waiver. You can automatically qualify if you’ve received an SAT waiver or meet any of the same standards as above.

You can also qualify by having a school official or community leader vouch for your financial need.

The National College Fairs also provides certain students with application fee waivers. The process is a little bit different in that you fill out an “Economic Need” section and explain your situation. You’ll also need confirmation from a school official or community-based organization.

Many members of the Coalition for College offer application fee waivers. There’s no documentation required — just indicate in your profile that you meet at least one of the following qualifications:

Some colleges and universities offer direct fee waivers through their admissions office. You can call directly to get details on the process since it may vary from school to school.

There are more than 100 U.S. colleges that don’t charge application fees at all. Check out the list and see if any of your top choices are on there, or get inspired to apply to a college you may not have initially considered.

There are many ways to qualify for a college application fee waiver, and many organizations use the same eligibility requirements. Common qualifications include receiving some type of public assistance, government aid, or free school lunch. You may need to submit supporting documentation depending on the organization or college.

Yes, you can waive an application fee. But you or your family must meet certain need-based qualifications to be eligible. Check different program requirements to understand what type of fee waivers you can apply for.

Yes, it is possible to directly contact a college admissions office to inquire about getting the application fee waived. Check online first, then call or email to find out any details not listed on the website. They may use similar standards as the SAT, ACT, or Common App waiver process.

It depends on what organization is issuing the fee waiver. Typically, eligibility requirements include participation in a free lunch program or some other type of income-based assistance program.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute professional financial advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Readers of this website should contact a professional advisor before making decisions about financial issues.