usually, college application fees are between $50 to $85 range, with some costing as much as $105 (ahem, University of California Irvine). When it comes to paying for college, the application fee is one expense that can be avoided. Nearly all colleges and universities accept fee waivers, which allow students to apply to schools at no cost.
There are a few ways to get a college application fee waiver. The most common way is to qualify for free or reduced lunch through the National School Lunch Program. To qualify, students’ families must meet specific income requirements.
like the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance Program or the American Indian Higher Education Student Assistance program.
Students can also receive waivers if they have a disability or are from a low-income family. In some cases, colleges will waive the application fee for all students.
How Much Do College Applications Cost?
For students applying to college, the application fee can be a deterrent. This cost can range from $25 to $90 per school. However, there are ways to get a fee waiver.
The College Board offers fee waivers for students who take the SAT subject tests. In addition, students who demonstrate financial need or meet other eligibility requirements may receive a release.
In addition, most colleges offer waivers for their applications. Students should contact the admissions office to learn more about waiving the application fee.
How Do You Qualify for College Application Fee Waivers?
Each year, colleges and universities across the United States charge students application fees to process their admissions applications. These fees can range anywhere from $15 to $75 per application, and for many students, this expense can be a natural barrier to accessing higher education.
Fortunately, there are a few ways that students can get their college application fees waived. One way to get a fee waiver is if you are low-income. Many colleges and universities offer fee waivers to students from low-income backgrounds or who demonstrate financial need.
To qualify for a fee waiver based on income, you will need to provide documentation such as your parents’ most recent tax return or proof of government assistance. Another way to get a fee waiver is to be a first-generation college student.
| Members in Household | Total Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $21,775 |
| 2 | $29,471 |
| 3 | $37,167 |
| 4 | $44,863 |
| 5 | $52,599 |
| 6 | $60,255 |
How Do You Get College Application Fee Waivers?
There are a few ways to get a college application fee waiver. Some colleges will automatically waive the application fee if you apply for financial aid, apply to multiple schools, or are a legacy student.
Other colleges have a specific process for requesting a fee waiver. You can usually find the information on the school’s website or contact the admissions office.
If you can’t find the information on the website, call or email the admissions office and ask for help. The best way to get your college application fee waived is to be prepared and know what to do before you apply.
