I've heard about the Common App fee waiver, and I could really use one when applying to colleges. How do I know if I'm eligible, and what's the process to apply for one?
4 months agoTo determine your eligibility for a Common App fee waiver, consider the following guidelines. You might be eligible if:
1. You received a fee waiver for the SAT or ACT.
2. Your annual family income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
3. You're enrolled in or eligible to participate in the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program (FRPL).
4. Your family receives public assistance.
5. You live in federally subsidized public housing or a foster home, or you are homeless.
6. You're a ward of the state or an orphan.
7. You can provide a supporting statement from a school official, college access counselor, financial aid officer, or community leader.
If you meet one or more of these criteria, you can request a Common App fee waiver during the application process. Here's how to apply for one:
1. Create a Common App account and start your application.
2. In the "Profile" section, under "Personal Information," you'll find a question about fee waivers. Select "Yes" to indicate your interest in a fee waiver.
3. You'll then see a list of eligibility criteria mentioned earlier. Choose the ones that apply to you.
4. If needed, provide additional information or context about your financial situation in the text box provided.
5. Upon submitting your application, the fee waiver request will be sent to your high school counselor for confirmation.
It's important to discuss your fee waiver eligibility with your high school counselor before submitting your application. They may be able to provide guidance or verification of your eligibility. Note that the final decision to grant a fee waiver lies with the colleges to which you're applying. If approved, the fee for each college application will be waived, lowering your overall application costs.
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