Application fees add up fast — $50–$100 per school can mean $500–$1,000 for students applying to 10 schools. Fee waivers exist specifically so that cost is not a barrier to applying. Here is how to access them.
Common App Fee Waivers
The Common Application has a fee waiver process built into the student profile. You may qualify if you: receive or are eligible for free or reduced-price school lunch, have an annual family income meeting USDA income guidelines, are enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families, are a ward of the state or in foster care, are homeless or living in a federally subsidized public housing program, or have filed for FAFSA and your Expected Family Contribution (or SAI) is zero. To apply: in your Common App profile, answer 'Yes' to the fee waiver question and select the applicable criterion. Documentation is typically not required at the application stage, though your school counselor may need to confirm.
SAT and ACT Fee Waivers
College Board offers SAT fee waivers for 11th and 12th grade students who meet income criteria — available through your school counselor. An SAT fee waiver includes: two free SAT attempts, four free score sends, and fee waivers for college applications that accept College Board's waiver eligibility. ACT fee waivers are similarly available through school counselors for eligible students.
Direct College Fee Waivers
Many colleges offer their own fee waivers beyond what Common App provides. If a school is on your list and you are experiencing financial hardship — even if you are uncertain whether you qualify — contact the admissions office directly and ask. Most schools will grant fee waivers to students who sincerely request them with an explanation of financial circumstances.