How do I know if I qualify for a fee waiver when applying to college?

Hi everyone, I'm a high school junior, and I'm starting to think about the cost of applying to college. I've heard that some students can qualify for fee waivers, but I'm not sure if I meet the requirements. How do I know if I'm eligible? Thanks for any advice!

Hi there! It's great to see that you're getting a head start on the college application process. Fee waivers can certainly help ease the financial burden of applying to multiple colleges. To determine if you're eligible for a fee waiver, you should first check the specific requirements for each college you're interested in, as they may vary slightly. However, most schools follow the guidelines provided by the College Board or the Common Application. These guidelines typically state that you may be eligible for a fee waiver if you meet one or more of the following criteria: 1) You are enrolled in or eligible for the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program; 2) Your family's annual income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service; 3) You are enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families; 4) Your family receives public assistance. If you're unsure about your eligibility, it's best to consult with your high school counselor who can provide more guidance and help you secure a fee waiver if you qualify. Best of luck!