Can I ask for fee waivers for college applications?

I've been putting together my list of schools that I want to apply to, but I'm worried about the cost of application fees. Is it possible to ask for fee waivers, and if so, how do I go about requesting them from colleges?

Absolutely, you can ask for fee waivers for college applications! Many schools understand the financial burden application fees can impose on families and are more than willing to provide assistance.

To request a fee waiver, you'll typically need to demonstrate financial need. This can be done in several ways, such as showing eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch, being part of the National School Lunch Program, or proving your family's income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service. Some colleges may have their unique criteria, but generally, demonstrating financial need is the primary requirement.

The process to request a fee waiver can vary based on the application platform. For the Common App, there's a specific section where you'll indicate your need for a fee waiver and select the applicable reason. For other platforms like the Coalition App, you'll need to follow similar steps. If you're applying to a college with its separate application, contact the admissions office to inquire about the process.

Lastly, don't hesitate to talk to your high school counselor, as they can often provide guidance and support in obtaining fee waivers. Good luck with your application process!