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College application fees can quickly add up, and for many students, the cost of applying to multiple schools can be a financial burden. However, if you are unable to afford the fees, there are several options available to help you reduce or eliminate the cost of applying to college. It’s important to understand that colleges recognize the financial challenges students face and offer ways to ensure that cost does not become a barrier to your education.

Look for Fee Waivers

Many colleges and universities offer application fee waivers to students who demonstrate financial need. Fee waivers allow students to apply to colleges without paying the standard application fee, which can range from $50 to $100 or more.  

To apply for a fee waiver, you typically need to meet certain income criteria or qualify for programs like the Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Program or Federal TRIO Programs. Some schools automatically offer fee waivers to students who are eligible for these programs, while others may ask you to request the waiver directly through the application portal.  

If you are applying through the Common Application, it offers an easy way to request a fee waiver. The application asks about your financial situation, and if you qualify based on the criteria, you will be able to request a fee waiver for schools that accept the Common App.

Apply for Fee Waivers Through Your School or Counselor

High schools often have resources available to help students with the financial costs associated with applying to college. School counselors are familiar with fee waiver policies and can assist you in requesting them from the colleges you are applying to. Many counselors also have direct access to application fee waivers through programs such as ACT and SAT.  

If you're applying to schools that do not use the Common Application, it’s worth asking your counselor if they have any specific forms or processes in place to help students with application fees. In some cases, counselors can submit a request for a fee waiver directly to the admissions office.

Search for Colleges With No Application Fees

Some colleges and universities do not charge application fees at all. These schools, which often include state universities and smaller private institutions, are committed to making the application process more accessible to all students.  

A quick online search or review of individual college websites can help you identify these schools. If you're looking for options that are more affordable, consider applying to institutions that have made the decision to waive application fees across the board.  

Additionally, some colleges may offer “free application days” or special periods during which students can apply without paying a fee.

Use Application Fee Waivers for Standardized Testing

If you’re applying to colleges that require standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT, you may be eligible for test fee waivers as well. These waivers allow students to take the exams without having to pay the registration fees.  

The College Board (SAT) and ACT offer fee waivers for low-income students who meet eligibility requirements. By qualifying for a test fee waiver, you may be able to save money on the cost of taking standardized tests. Additionally, some schools offer fee waivers for the SAT Subject Tests or other related testing fees, which can further reduce the financial burden.

Take Advantage of Application Fee Discounts and Special Programs

Some schools offer discounts on application fees for students who meet certain criteria or participate in specific programs. For example, some institutions provide reduced fees or completely free applications to students who attend college fairs, attend virtual information sessions, or participate in outreach programs aimed at underrepresented students.  

Additionally, certain organizations and programs may cover application fees for students applying to college. Programs like QuestBridge work with highly selective schools to provide full application fee coverage as part of their application process. Students who apply through these programs are often considered for scholarships and other financial aid as well.

Focus on Schools With Lower Application Costs

While application fees can be steep at some highly selective schools, many state universities and smaller private colleges have more affordable application fees. Some of these schools charge as little as $20 or even less, making them more accessible to students on a tight budget.  

If you're facing challenges with the cost of applying, it may be worth researching schools with more affordable fees. This allows you to maximize your chances of admission while staying within your financial means.

Plan Ahead and Budget for Application Fees

If you know that applying to college will involve several application fees, planning ahead can help you manage the cost. Start by identifying which schools are your top priorities, and consider applying to a mix of colleges with application fee waivers, lower fees, and those with more flexible options.  

By budgeting early for application costs, you can allocate funds for the application process over several months. Consider setting aside money for things like fee waivers or other related expenses, such as transcript fees or standardized testing costs. Planning early allows you to avoid stress and better manage financial challenges.

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