I'm planning to apply to Boston College as a transfer student, and I'm trying to figure out how to request a fee waiver. Has anyone successfully gotten a fee waiver for their transfer application to BC?
Navigating the college transfer process can be complex and expensive, so seeking a fee waiver is a great idea. The standard application fee for Boston College transfer applicants is $75, so a waiver certainly helps! Here are the steps on how you can secure that:
Boston College is a member of the Common Application, and you can request a fee waiver directly through your Common App account. When you reach the "Profile" section, look for the "Common App Fee Waiver" subsection. Select "Yes" in response to the question about whether you feel you qualify for a fee waiver, and provide the reason that applies to your situation.
The criteria for a Common Application fee waiver are closely tied to similar benchmarks used for SAT or ACT fee waivers, or free/reduced price lunch at your school. These criteria include:
- Being enrolled in or eligible to participate in the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program (FRPL).
- Being enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families (e.g., TRIO programs).
- Living in a foster home, being homeless, or being a ward of the state.
- Having family income at or below the Bureau of Labor Statistics Low Standard Budget.
If you don't meet these criteria, don't worry! You should still reach out directly to Boston College's admissions office and explain your circumstances. Fees shouldn't stand in the way of your education, and schools are often understanding about this. In some instances, the transfer admissions staff at Boston College might be able to provide a college-specific fee waiver code.
Remember to plan this task in advance so you're not rushing close to the deadline. Best of luck with your transfer application!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.