Fee Waiver for Common Application: Your Ultimate Guide to Applying for Free

Introduction

Applying to college can be an expensive endeavor, especially with the cost of application fees, which can add up quickly. The Common Application, which is accepted by over 1,000 colleges and universities, charges a $75 fee for each application submitted. However, for students who qualify, there is a fee waiver program available to help cover the cost of the application fee.

Who is Eligible for a Fee Waiver?

The Common Application offers fee waivers to students who meet certain criteria. These criteria include:

• Students who are enrolled in or eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program (FRLP)
• Students who are enrolled in or eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
• Students who receive a fee waiver from their high school counselor
• Students who are homeless or in foster care
• Students who are considered low-income by their school district

How to Apply for a Fee Waiver

To apply for a fee waiver, students can either:

1. Complete the Common Application's Online Fee Waiver Request Form
2. Submit a Fee Waiver Certification Form signed by their school counselor

The online fee waiver request form is available on the Common Application website. Students will need to provide their name, contact information, and financial information to complete the form. The fee waiver certification form is available from school counselors. Students will need to provide their name, contact information, and a statement from their counselor verifying their eligibility for a fee waiver.

Deadlines for Applying for a Fee Waiver

The deadline for applying for a fee waiver varies depending on the college or university you are applying to. However, most deadlines fall between November 1 and December 1. It is important to check with the admissions office of each college or university you are applying to for their specific deadline.

Benefits of Applying for a Fee Waiver

There are many benefits to applying for a fee waiver, including:

• Saving money: The Common Application fee is $75 per application, which can add up quickly if you are applying to multiple colleges and universities.
• Increasing your chances of admission: Some colleges and universities give preference to students who apply for a fee waiver, as it demonstrates financial need.
• Making college more accessible: Fee waivers help to make college more accessible for students from low-income backgrounds, who may not otherwise be able to afford to apply to college.

Conclusion

If you meet the eligibility criteria, we strongly encourage you to apply for a fee waiver. It is a simple and easy way to save money on your college applications and increase your chances of admission.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between a fee waiver and a fee reduction?

A fee waiver is a complete waiver of the application fee, while a fee reduction is a partial waiver of the application fee.

2. How many colleges and universities accept the Common Application fee waiver?

Over 1,000 colleges and universities accept the Common Application fee waiver.

3. What is the deadline for applying for a fee waiver?

The deadline for applying for a fee waiver varies depending on the college or university you are applying to. However, most deadlines fall between November 1 and December 1.

4. How can I get a fee waiver from my high school counselor?

To get a fee waiver from your high school counselor, you will need to submit a Fee Waiver Certification Form. Your counselor will need to verify that you meet the eligibility criteria for a fee waiver.

5. What happens if I don't qualify for a fee waiver?

If you do not qualify for a fee waiver, you will be responsible for paying the application fee. However, some colleges and universities offer payment plans to help students who cannot afford to pay the application fee all at once.

6. Can I apply for a fee waiver after I have already submitted my application?

No, you cannot apply for a fee waiver after you have already submitted your application.

7. What should I do if I have any questions about the fee waiver program?

If you have any questions about the fee waiver program, you can contact the Common Application at 1-866-343-9069 or [email protected].