Information about ACT Waiver Code

Hey everyone, I heard about the ACT waiver code but I'm not sure how it works. Can anyone provide some clarity about what it exactly is, how to get one, and the way it might affect my testing for the ACT in 2023? I'd appreciate the help!

The ACT waiver code is essentially a fee waiver provided by ACT, Inc for students who cannot afford the registration fee for the ACT test. If you are eligible and approved for an ACT waiver, you will not have to pay the $55 or $70 (with writing) fees to take the ACT.

To get an ACT waiver code, the primary step is to verify if you're eligible. Eligibility is based on financial need, determined by federal guidelines. Generally, you should qualify for an ACT fee waiver if you meet any of the following criteria:

1. You are enrolled in a federal free or reduced-price lunch program.

2. Your family’s income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.

3. You are enrolled in a program for the economically disadvantaged (for example, a federally funded program such as TRIO programs like Upward Bound).

4. Your family receives public assistance.

5. You are homeless, in foster care, or a ward of the state.

6. You live in federally subsidized public housing.

If you meet any of these eligibility criteria, speak to your school counselor about obtaining the fee waiver. They can request ACT fee waivers from ACT, Inc. and distribute them to eligible students. Your school counselor will fill out the needed paperwork and handle the process from there.

You can use a maximum of two ACT Fee Waivers, and the waiver covers the full registration fee for either the ACT (no writing) or the ACT (with writing).

It's important to note though, that the availability of fee waivers is on a first-come, first-served basis and the supply is sometimes limited, so it's best to apply as soon as possible. If you are planning on taking the ACT multiple times, make sure to strategize on when to use your waivers to get the maximum benefit.

Ultimately, qualifying for an ACT fee waiver allows you to take the ACT at no cost, helping to alleviate some of the financial burdens of college admissions testing. It doesn't affect how your test is scored or considered by colleges, it only impacts the cost to take the test. I hope this information is helpful to you!