Who Qualifies for an SAT Fee Waiver?

Learn who is eligible for an SAT fee waiver and the criteria used to determine qualification. This guide breaks down income guidelines and other key factors essential for SAT preparation without unnecessary elaboration.

Overview

An SAT fee waiver is provided by the College Board to help eligible students take the SAT without financial burden. The waiver not only covers the test fee but also includes other benefits, ensuring that low-income students have a fair opportunity to pursue higher education.

Eligibility Criteria

Students may qualify for an SAT fee waiver if they meet any one of the following conditions:

• Enrollment in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP):
  This program is a common benchmark for determining low-income status within U.S. schools.

• Household Income Guidelines Based on USDA Standards:
  Families must meet the annual income requirements as specified by the USDA. For instance, for a family of four during the 2023–2024 period, the maximum income is approximately $39,000. Updated income thresholds and charts are available from official resources.
  USDA Income Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)USDA Income Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)

• Enrollment in Government Programs for Low-Income Families:
  Eligibility may also be established through participation in programs such as:

  • TRIO programs (e.g., Upward Bound)
  • SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
  • Medicaid

• Living Conditions Reflecting Financial Hardship:
  Includes students living in federally subsidized public housing, foster homes, those who are homeless, wards of the state, or orphans.

• Receipt of Public Assistance:
  Participation in public assistance programs automatically qualifies the student under many circumstances.

Who Can Request a Fee Waiver?

• High School Juniors and Seniors:
  Students enrolled in high school in the U.S. or U.S. territories are eligible.

• U.S. Citizens Living Abroad:
  U.S. citizens residing outside the country can also qualify.

• Non-U.S. Citizens:
  Students who are non-U.S. citizens may qualify if they are part of a low-income household and meet the other established criteria.

Benefits Included with the Fee Waiver

Students who are granted an SAT fee waiver receive:

• Two free SAT registrations:
  This may include taking the test with or without the essay option.

• Two free SAT Subject Test registrations:
  Subject tests are available based on current College Board offerings.

• Six free score reports sent to colleges:
  Additional score reports can be sent later without additional cost.

• Waived college application fees:
  Participating colleges do not charge an application fee to eligible students.

• Free CSS Profile application fee:
  Covers the fee waiver for the CSS Profile, an essential component for college financial aid.

How to Obtain a Fee Waiver

1. Consult with a School Counselor or Authorized Educator:
   They can verify eligibility and provide a fee waiver code if you meet the criteria.

2. Register on the College Board Website:
   Use your College Board account to enter the provided fee waiver code during the SAT registration process.

Additional Resources

• College Board: SAT Fee WaiversCollege Board: SAT Fee Waivers
• USDA Income Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)USDA Income Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)
• CSS Profile Fee WaiversCSS Profile Fee Waivers
• SAT Practice with Fee WaiversSAT Practice with Fee Waivers

Conclusion

The SAT fee waiver is an essential resource for students who may face financial challenges. It covers various aspects of the SAT registration and testing process, ensuring that eligible students have the opportunity to pursue higher education without financial constraints. If uncertainty exists regarding eligibility, students should seek guidance from their school counselor to review all available options confidentially.