Navigating College Application Fee Waivers - Help?

Application fees can sure add up, especially when you're applying to multiple schools. I've heard about something called a college application fee waiver but I'm unsure how to go about getting one or filling it out. Can anybody shed some light on this process? How do I qualify for it?

Sure, I'd be happy to help you understand college application fee waivers!

These waivers are essentially a way for students who demonstrate sufficient financial need to be exempt from certain college application fees, removing a potential barrier to applying.

First, to qualify for a waiver, a few commonly recognized indicators of financial need include being enrolled in or eligible for the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program, being enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families, living in a federally subsidized public housing or a foster home, or being homeless.

With regard to the application process, it varies slightly depending on whether you're applying via the Common Application, Coalition Application, or directly through university-specific applications.

For the Common App, there's a question in the profile section asking if you qualify for a fee waiver. If you answer yes, a list of criteria will appear, and you're required to select the one that applies to you. Then, your high school guidance counselor will be asked to confirm your eligibility.

For the Coalition Application, the process is similar. You'll answer a set of questions, and based on your responses, the application will determine your eligibility for a fee waiver which - like the Common App - will need to be confirmed by your high school counselor.

If you're applying directly to a college through their specific application, you'll need to contact the college's admission office directly to understand their process.

Lastly, keep in mind that even when you qualify, not every college will have a fee waiver. Be sure to check each college’s policy. Many do offer waivers, but there might be some that do not, so it's best to check with each individual school.

Good luck with your applications!