College Application Fee Waivers to Know for College Process

College application fee waivers help students save money during the application process. Various options exist, including waivers for the Common App, SAT, ACT, and individual colleges, making it easier for those with financial need to apply to multiple schools.

1. Common App Fee Waiver

   • Available for students applying through the Common Application platform.
   • Eligibility is based on financial need, typically requiring documentation of income or participation in certain programs.
   • Students can request a fee waiver for up to 20 colleges.

2. NACAC Fee Waiver

   • Offered by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).
   • Designed for students who demonstrate financial need and meet specific criteria.
   • Allows students to apply to colleges without paying application fees, typically up to four institutions.

3. SAT Fee Waiver

   • Provides eligible students with the opportunity to take the SAT for free.
   • Students can also receive additional benefits, such as free score reports and college application fee waivers.
   • Eligibility is generally based on family income or participation in certain programs.

4. ACT Fee Waiver

   • Allows eligible students to take the ACT at no cost.
   • Includes benefits like free score reports and college application fee waivers.
   • Eligibility is determined by financial need, often assessed through income guidelines.

5. College Board CSS Profile Fee Waiver

   • Available for students who need financial assistance when completing the CSS Profile for financial aid.
   • Eligibility is based on family income and other financial factors.
   • Waivers can cover the cost of submitting the CSS Profile to multiple colleges.

6. Individual College/University Fee Waivers

   • Many colleges and universities offer their own fee waivers for applicants.
   • Eligibility criteria and application processes vary by institution.
   • Students should check each college's website for specific details and requirements.

7. Income-Based Fee Waivers

   • Targeted at students from low-income families, allowing them to waive application fees.
   • Often requires documentation of income or participation in government assistance programs.
   • Can apply to multiple college applications, depending on the institution's policies.

8. First-Generation Student Fee Waivers

   • Designed for students who are the first in their family to attend college.
   • Many colleges offer fee waivers to support these students in the application process.
   • Eligibility may require proof of first-generation status, often through self-identification.

9. Foster Youth Fee Waivers

   • Specifically for students who are or have been in the foster care system.
   • Many colleges provide application fee waivers to support these students in their college journey.
   • Eligibility may require documentation from a social worker or foster care agency.

10. Military-Connected Student Fee Waivers

    • Available for students who are active-duty military members, veterans, or dependents of military personnel.
    • Many colleges offer fee waivers to support military-connected students in their applications.
    • Eligibility may require proof of military status or documentation from military institutions.