How to Apply to College for Free: Fee Waivers Guide by Future Leaders Program Teachers

Applying to college can be a costly endeavor. Many schools charge a fee ranging from $75 to $90 to apply. The fees can add up quickly when applying to multiple schools. The good news? Many colleges and organizations offer fee waivers that make applying more accessible.

How can I get a fee waiver for my applications?

Fee waivers for applications allow prospective students to apply at a reduced rate, or completely free of charge.  They’re designed to help students navigate the complex college admissions environment without worrying about how to pay.  Here are some ways you may qualify.

1.     If You Have Already Qualified for a Fee Waiver on the SAT or ACT

One of the most common ways to qualify for application fee waivers is if you have already qualified for the fee waiver on the SAT or ACT. Students can qualify for these waivers based on:

-          Enrollment in a free or reduced lunch program

-          Enrollment in a program for the economically disadvantaged

-          If your family receives public assistance

-          If you are a ward of the state or in a foster home

To receive this waiver, you must login to your College Board account and submit a request.

2.     Apply for the Common App Fee Waiver

If you plan on using the Common App to apply to schools, you can apply for their fee waiver which can be found on the application itself. The Common App hosts over 1,000 colleges, so applying for their fee waiver is an easy way to ensure that many, or all, of your applications are free. Your school counselor will be prompted to confirm a fee waiver when sending a transcript.

3.     Apply for the Coalition App Fee Waiver

To apply for a fee waiver on the Coalition App, they ask you to self-report if you or your family qualify for:

-          Federal free and reduced lunch programs

-          College Board, ACT, or NACAC fee waiver

-          Pell Grant eligibility

-          Are first generation college students

-          TRIO programs

4.     Apply for the NACAC Fee Waiver

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) offers a fee waiver that you can submit directly to the schools you are applying for. This is best forbest if a school you are interested in does not use the Common App or Coalition App.

5.     Ask the College for a Fee Waiver

Some colleges and universities offer direct fee waivers that are unavailable through the programs listed above. The best way to find out if your school offers fee waivers is to view their website or call their admissions department and explain your financial situation. It varies from school to school, but is always worth asking!

6.     Apply to Schools that do not Charge Application Fees

There are over 100 colleges in the United States that do not charge application fees. Almost every state has schools with no application fee. Schools you might have already been considering could be on the list as well as schools you might have never heard of.

Submitting College Applications Does Not Have to be Expensive

Application fees should not be a financial barrier that keeps you from your dream school. Use the options above to help stack your savings, and keep your college journey as affordable as possible.