Common Application Fee Waiver

Hey everyone! I've heard that it's possible to get a fee waiver for the Common Application, but I'm not quite sure how it works. Can anyone explain the process to me or let me know if I might be eligible? Thanks in advance for the help!

Hey there! I'd be happy to help clear things up about the Common Application fee waiver process.

First and foremost, the Common App fee waiver is designed to help eligible students for whom application fees would pose a financial barrier. If you think this applies to you, you should consider requesting a fee waiver. To be eligible, you typically need to meet one or more of the following criteria:

• You are enrolled in or eligible to participate in the federal free or reduced price lunch program (FRPL).

• You have received or are eligible to receive an SAT or ACT fee waiver.

• Your annual family income falls within the income eligibility guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

• Your family receives public assistance.

• You are enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families (e.g., GEAR UP, TRIO such as Upward Bound or others).

• You live in a federally subsidized public housing, a foster home or are homeless.

• You are a ward of the state or an orphan.

• You have received or are eligible to receive a Pell Grant.

• You can provide a supporting statement from a school official, college access counselor, financial aid officer, or community leader.

When filling out the Common Application, you'll find the fee waiver section within the "Profile" tab under "Common App Fee Waiver." Here, you'll be asked to indicate which eligibility criteria you meet, and you may need to provide supporting information or documentation as well. Keep in mind that your counselor will also need to approve your request, so it's important to have a conversation with them about your eligibility.

Once your fee waiver request is approved, the application fees for participating colleges (most colleges on the Common App) will be automatically waived. Note that not all colleges might accept the fee waiver, so it's crucial to double-check with each school on your list to make sure you're covered.

I hope this explanation was helpful. Good luck with your applications, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions!