How can international students get application fee waivers at universities?

Trying to apply to multiple schools as an international student is costly. Does anyone know which universities offer application fee waivers for international students, or how to go about requesting one?

Several universities in the U.S do offer application fee waivers to international students, but the availability and process vary by institution.

Generally, the first step you should take is to reach out directly to the admissions offices of the universities you're interested in. Explain your financial situation and inquire about the possibility of an application fee waiver. Be prepared - they may ask you for supporting financial documentation, such as a tax return or income statements.

Some universities have their own form on their website that you can fill out to request a fee waiver. This form often consists of questions about your financial situation. Hence, be sure to check the admissions page of each university's website for more specific instructions.

Another route is through the Common Application or Coalition Application, two widely-used application platforms. Both of these platforms offer an option to apply for a fee waiver directly on their portal, which covers all institutions applied to through their platform. However, not all universities accept these forms of fee waivers, especially for international students, so it's always a good idea to check directly with the university.

Some universities also collaborate with non-profit organizations like the United World Colleges (UWC) and waive application fees for their students. If you're a part of any such international student organizations, you might have more options available for fee waivers.

One thing to keep in mind is that most universities do have a limited budget for fee waivers, so it's best to ask as early as possible. The process might take some time, and waiting until the last minute could restrict your options.

Remember, fee waivers are ultimately granted on a case-by-case basis, so don't be discouraged if your request isn't granted immediately. Continue to communicate with the universities and explore all your available options.