Fee Waivers and College Applications

This guide explains how SAT fee waivers not only reduce your testing expenses but also help lower the costs of college applications. For more comprehensive SAT preparation resources and support, visit SAT SphereSAT Sphere.

Overview

SAT fee waivers can significantly ease the financial burden of applying to college by granting free or reduced-fee applications to many institutions. They are especially beneficial for U.S. students facing financial hardship, though international students may need to explore alternative options.

How College Application Fee Waivers Work

For U.S. Students

• Automatic Waivers via the College Board:
  When you register for the SAT with a fee waiver, you automatically receive access to college application fee waivers through your College Board account. These waivers are accepted by more than 2,000 colleges and universities.

• How to Use Them:

  • Access the fee waiver form under the “Apply to Colleges” section in your College Board account.
  • Download or send the waiver directly to participating colleges.
  • Some institutions require you to upload the form to their application portal, while others may accept it via email or postal mail.

• Other Options:

  • NACAC Fee Waiver Form: Use the form provided by the National Association for College Admission Counseling.
    NACAC Fee Waiver Form (PDF)NACAC Fee Waiver Form (PDF)
  • Common App Fee Waivers: Indicate your need directly on the Common Application.
  • Coalition App: Similar fee waiver request options are available on the Coalition for College application platform.

For International Students

• Limited Direct Benefit:
  SAT fee waivers primarily benefit U.S. students or U.S. citizens living abroad. International applicants do not automatically receive College Board fee waivers for college applications.

• Alternative Options:

  • Many U.S. colleges offer fee waivers for international students upon request.
  • Contact the admissions office directly with evidence of financial hardship.
  • Utilize fee waiver options on platforms like the Common App or Coalition App, where available.

Practical Tips

• Start Early: Research the fee waiver policies for each college you plan to apply to.
• Keep Your Documentation Ready: Be prepared to provide proof of financial need or eligibility.
• Combine Waiver Sources: Use College Board waivers along with NACAC and application-specific waivers.
• Communicate with Admissions: If you’re unsure about a college’s process, reach out directly to their admissions office.

Quick Reference Table

Useful Resources

• College Board: SAT Fee Waivers and College ApplicationsCollege Board: SAT Fee Waivers and College Applications
• NACAC Fee Waiver Form (PDF)NACAC Fee Waiver Form (PDF)
• Common App Fee Waiver GuideCommon App Fee Waiver Guide
• Coalition for College Fee Waiver InfoCoalition for College Fee Waiver Info
• SAT SphereSAT Sphere – Your resource for SAT preparation, study tips, and comprehensive college application support.

By leveraging SAT fee waivers, eligible students can significantly reduce the cost of both testing and applying to college, making the path to higher education more accessible.