Application fees add up significantly for students applying to 10+ schools. Here is a complete guide to accessing fee waivers at every stage.
Common App Fee Waivers — One Request Covers All Common App Schools
The most efficient waiver: when you complete your Common App profile, you are asked about fee waiver eligibility. If you qualify (free/reduced lunch, annual family income meeting USDA guidelines, foster care status, FAFSA SAI of zero, or other criteria), checking this box in your profile automatically triggers fee waiver requests to every Common App school you add. Schools cannot reject a Common App fee waiver from an eligible student.
SAT/ACT Fee Waivers — Extended Benefits
College Board SAT fee waivers (available through your school counselor for qualifying juniors and seniors) include: two free SAT attempts, four free score reports, and fee waivers at all colleges that participate in the College Board fee waiver program. ACT fee waivers similarly extend to application fees at participating schools. If you received a testing fee waiver, ask your counselor which application fee waivers it includes.
School-Specific Waivers
Many individual colleges offer their own fee waivers through: official campus visit registration (some schools waive the fee if you visit), specific recruitment programs targeting first-generation or low-income students, virtual event attendance (some schools offer fee waivers to attendees of their virtual open houses), and military family status.
Simply Asking
If you are experiencing financial hardship that isn't covered by standard waiver programs, contact the admissions office directly with a brief explanation. 'I am very interested in applying but the application fee is a genuine financial hardship for my family — is there a process for requesting a waiver?' Most admissions offices will say yes.