I'm starting to feel a bit stressed about the cost of applying to all these colleges. Does anybody know how can I go about getting a fee waiver through the Common App? Whats the process like? Are there any catches I should watch for?
2 months agoSure, let's walk through the fee waiver process on the Common App. Bear in mind, this waiver is applicable only for the application fee and not any other costs, such as sending test scores (although, as an aside, some colleges allow self-reported scores).
The fee waiver request is a part of the Common App itself. You'll find it in the "Profile" section where you provide your basic information. You'll see a question asking if you'd like to apply for a Common App fee waiver. From there, you should simply tick the box stating, "Yes, I feel that my financial circumstances qualify me for an application fee waiver."
Once you click on this option, you're required to indicate the reasons why you're eligible based on the appearing criteria, which include receiving free/reduced-lunch, being enrolled in or eligible to partake in federal free/reduced-lunch program, enrollment in programs like Upward Bound, to just cite a few examples.
Then, you will need to get a school official – usually your counselor – to sign off on the waiver, verifying your financial needs. This confirmation can either be done digitally through the Common App or through a written affirmation sent to colleges directly.
As for potential catches, it's important to note that not every school which accepts the Common App will also accept the Common App fee waiver. You might have to apply separately for a fee waiver directly with those colleges.
Remember, honest self-reporting is crucial through this process, because misrepresenting your financial status can lead to severe consequences.
Once you complete these steps, you'll see that participating colleges' application fees are automatically waived when you go to submit your application.
In the end, don't let the cost of application fees deter you from applying to your dream schools. Colleges understand that these costs can add up and hence, offer this support to ease the financial burden associated with the college application process.
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