Hey guys, I'm a bit stressed about the costs associated with college applications, including test fees. Is it possible to get a fee waiver for the ACT? If so, how and where do I apply, and what are the eligibility criteria? Any advice would be a lifesaver!
Absolutely, financial concerns are common for a lot of students, and the ACT does offer fee waivers to low-income 11th and 12th graders. Actually, you can get up to two fee waivers if you are eligible which is quite helpful. More than just covering the basic ACT registration fee, it also provides free test prep resources and allows sending scores to unlimited colleges (without additional charges).
So, how can you become eligible for the ACT fee waiver? Primarily, you need to meet one or more indicators of economic need listed in by the ACT. Most commonly, this includes being enrolled in a federal free or reduced-price lunch program at school; however, other conditions such as being enrolled in a program for the economically disadvantaged (like Upward Bound), or having a family income that is at or below the U.S. Poverty Income Guidelines, can also make you eligible.
To apply for the waiver, you will have to contact your school counselor or a representative of a high school-sponsored, authorized community-based program. They will have the ACT Fee Waiver forms. So have a discussion with them about your eligibility, and they should be able to guide you through the process.
Remember, fee waivers cannot be used for standby registration and can only be used once (if you miss your test, it cannot be used again). But don't worry, as mentioned earlier, you're eligible to receive two fee waivers total. I hope this helps, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions about the process. Good luck!
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