Hello! I'm a junior in high school, and I'm trying to budget for the college application process. Between application fees, test fees, and other expenses, I'm not sure how much it's all going to cost. How can I calculate my college application costs, and are there any ways to save money or get fee waivers? Thanks for your help!
Hello! It's great that you're thinking ahead about the costs associated with the college application process. To calculate your costs, you'll want to consider the following:
1. Application fees: Research the fees for each college you're applying to (usually between $40-$90 per application).
2. Test fees: Account for the cost of taking the SAT/ACT (including any retakes).
3. Test prep: If you're planning on using test prep services, include their costs as well.
4. College visits: If you plan to visit colleges, estimate travel and accommodation expenses.
As for saving money, you can look into fee waivers for both college applications and standardized tests. If you're eligible for free or reduced lunch at school, you're likely eligible for fee waivers. Talk to your school counselor about your options. Additionally, some colleges offer application fee waivers if you visit their campus or attend a virtual event.
Good luck!
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