The price tag associated with getting a college degree continues to skyrocket. So it’s more important than ever before for students to find ways to reduce their costs. One easy way is to look for a college online with no application fee. Schools with no application fee can save you a bundle of cash. In this article, we feature some of the top colleges with free applications.
Applying To College
The college application process is seen as the first step toward securing a brighter future. Yet many students are held back from applying simply because they can’t afford the application fees. This is especially true for those who would like to apply to multiple schools. Yes, Federal student aid, scholarships, and Pell Grants can reduce the cost of tuition once you are accepted. But there are no funding sources to help ease the financial burden of application fees when you apply for online colleges
The entire college application process can be stressful as it is. There are often essay requirements, standardized testing, and deadlines. Additionally, it can be a time of uncertainty. The fear of being rejected by your dream college can add to the pressure you already feel.
Luckily, college application fees no longer have to stand in the way of your education. Many online colleges have begun offering free college applications. Read on for more details on how these accredited online colleges are making the application process more affordable.
Top 15 No Application Fee Online Colleges
| School | Tuition |
| Chadron State College | $7,834 |
| Indiana Wesleyan University | $8,120 |
| University of Texas Rio Grande Valley | $9,538 |
| University of Texas at El Paso | $9,744 |
| Colorado Technical University | $12,696 |
| Johnson & Wales University | $13,365 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $15,380 |
| Lindsey Wilson College | $26,228 |
| Maryville University | $27,166 |
| Brescia University | $27,950 |
| Baker University | $32,320 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | $43,670 |
| Norwich University | $45,340 |
| Loyola University Chicago | $49,498 |
| Saint Louis University | $50,644 |
Note: This list of accredited online colleges with no application fees is ordered by tuition. The costs listed are based on undergraduate in-state fees per academic year. For online, out-of-state, and graduate students, costs may vary.
Online Colleges No Application Fee
Chadron State College
Chadron, Nebraska
No Application Fee
Chadron State College is a public, four-year institution in Chadron, Nebraska. It is one of three public colleges in the Nebraska State College System. The school has a reputation for providing top-quality education at an affordable price. This small, friendly online college serves about 2,200 a year. And it features both undergraduate and graduate degree programs. There are about 60 programs in all. And many of them can be completed entirely online. The online bachelor’s degree programs include:
- Applied Sciences in Technical Occupations
- Business
- Education
- Family & Consumer Sciences
- Geoscience
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Mathematics
- Psychological Sciences
There are also five online graduate programs, some with various concentrations. They include:
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Education
- Master of Science in Organizational Management
- Master of Science in Athletic Training
- Master of Arts in Education
Many of the online courses are offered in accelerated eight-week formats. And the school features 24/7 support for all remote learners. In addition, CSC is one of the best online colleges for an affordable degree. Remote students pay the same low tuition costs as in-state students. There are no college application fees. Plus, the school offers Federal financial aid, scholarships, and more.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $7,834
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, Indiana
No Application Fee
Indiana Wesleyan University is a private Christian University in Marion, Indiana. The school boasts a student population of over 10,000. And it is another one of the best online colleges in terms of cost. Undergraduates pay just over $8,000 per academic year. Students at this non-profit online college can choose from over 160 online degrees. And incoming students benefit from a generous transfer policy. Undergraduate transfer students can bring in up to 75% of the credits needed to earn their degree. And graduate transfer students can bring up to 35% of their credits.
Coursework is asynchronous, so there are no set class times, and you can go at your own pace. Students typically take one five to eight-week course at a time before moving on to the next. Some of the bachelor’s online degrees at Indiana Wesleyan University include:
- Accounting
- Addictions Counseling
- Aviation Management
- Biblical Studies
- Cybersecurity
- Early Childhood EducationTrackLicensure
- Global Security and Strategy Management
- Information Technology
- Communication
- History
- Marketing – Digital Media Business Strategies
- Service and Leadership
- Social Work
Indiana Wesleyan University students can also choose from a huge range of online master’s degrees. Many of them feature multiple specializations. Some of those options include:
- Healthcare Administration
- Project Management
- Christian School Education
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Community Care
- Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy
- Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction
- Divinity
- Worship Arts
- Human Resource Management
- Information Technology Leadership
- Policy/Organizational Change
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology
- Non-Profit Leadership
- Special Education
- Sports Leadership
- Technology/Digital Literacy in Education
Indiana Wesleyan University strives to make college affordable. In addition to lower-than-average tuition costs, the school has many financial assistance options. These include grants, scholarships, loans, and military/veteran discounts. IWU has no college application fees. Prospective students can even take a free online orientation class. This allows them to see how the virtual classroom works.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $8,120
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, Texas
No Application Fee
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is a private college in Edinburg, Texas. It is part of the University of Texas System and has multiple campuses throughout the region. UTRGV serves over 31,000 students a year and offers over 110 programs. The school features bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. Several of the school’s programs can be completed online. The fully online undergraduate programs include:
- Addiction Studies
- Health Services Technology
- Hospitality and Tourism Management
There is also an online undergraduate degree program called Finish@UT Initiative. This is a degree completion program for students who already have their core credits. You can choose from numerous online bachelor’s degree programs offered through multiple UT schools.
Some of UTRGV’s online graduate programs include:
- Bilingual Education Bioethics
- Engineering Management
- Mathematics
- Medical Science
- Nursing Administration
- Nursing Education
- Physician Assistant Studies
- Reading and Literacy Spanish Translation and Interpreting
The college also offers several accelerated online programs across a range of areas. The accelerated programs feature seven-week classes. And they allow graduate students to complete their degree in less time so they can get back to work.
Courses are delivered through Blackboard, the school’s online learning management platform. Each course may use a variety of tech formats. Remote learners are supported with many services to help them stay on track. These include academic advising, career coaching, and counseling. Students can also access the library, free online tutoring, and more. There are no college application fees for domestic students. However, international students will need to pay a fee.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,538
University of Texas at El Paso
El Paso, Texas
No Application Fee
The University of Texas at El Paso, Texas, is a large public university with over 24,000 students. The school is known for being the nation’s leading Hispanic-Serving university. UTEP offers over 170 degree options. And many of the programs are featured online. Most online classes require that students check in several times a week. And they will also need to complete their assignments by specific deadlines. However, generally, there are no set class log-in times. So you can complete your coursework at your convenience. The ten online bachelor’s degrees at the UTEP online college include:
- Criminal Justice
- Security Studies
- Media Advertising
- Organizational and Corporate Communication
- Chicano Studies
- Applied Arts and Science
- Multidisciplinary Studies
- Nursing RN to BSN Option
- Education With a Concentration in Early Childhood Care and Education
- Business Administration
UTEP also offers a wide range of online graduate programs. A few of the most popular master’s degree programs include:
- Defense and Strategic Studies
- Education with a Concentration in Diversity, Equity, and Social Justice in Education
- Education with a Concentration in STEM Education
- Master of Education in Bilingual Education
- Literacy Education
- Construction Management
- Systems Engineering
- Creative Writing
- Music with a Concentration in Conducting
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Administration and Management
Students at UTEP can also pursue several Grow With Google certificates at no cost. These online certificate programs complement specific areas of study. And students can find them useful in a range of careers. Remote students at the University of El Paso can access to the same support services as those in the on campus programs. These include The Writing Center, Library, Career Services, and Assistive Technology Lab. Additionally, they are encouraged to attend commencement ceremonies on campus if they are able.
UTEP is one of the most affordable colleges on our list. And it also offers many sources of financial help. In addition, there are no college application fees for undergraduate students in the US.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $9,744
Colorado Technical University
Colorado Springs, Colorado
No Application Fee
Colorado Technical University offers some of the best career-focused programs nationwide. The school was founded in 1965 and currently has a student population of about 24,000. CTU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Most of the programs are focused on management, technology, and business. And many of CTU’s degree programs can be accessed entirely online.
The school features an immersive, hands-on model for learning. And its online programs have been ranked among the top in the nation by US News & World Report. It was also ranked as having some of the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans. Some of the popular online bachelor’s degree programs include:
- Agricultural Business
- Horticulture
- Journalism and Media Communication
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Human Development and Family Studies
- Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
- Fire and Emergency Services Administration
- Natural Resource Tourism
Master’s degree students have similar online programs to choose from. A few of these options include:
- Horticulture and Human Health
- Arts Leadership and Cultural Management
- Sport Management
- Computer Information Systems
- Natural Sciences Education
- Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Aerospace Engineering
- Systems Engineering
- Public Policy Administration
- Health and Social Sciences
- Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology
- Tourism Management
Online students at Colorado Technical University earn the same degree as on-campus students. Plus, they can access a wide range of resources to help them succeed. Financial assistance and scholarships are available at this online college. There are no college application fees at Colorado Tech and it only takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $12,696
Johnson & Wales University
Providence, Rhode Island
No Application Fee
Johnson & Wales University is a four-year private university in Providence, Rhode Island. Students who want to study online do so through JWU’s College of Professional Studies. Online students at JWU benefit from small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1. So you can be assured of receiving individualized attention at this online college.
The school has perfected experiential education. Even the online degrees feature hands-on projects to help students develop practical skills. There are 70 online undergraduate programs to choose from. Some of the online bachelor’s degrees and JWU include:
- Business Studies
- Baking & Pastry Arts and Food Service Management
- Culinary Arts and Food Service Management
- Digital Marketing & Social Media
- Food & Beverage Entrepreneurship
- Fashion Merchandising & Retailing
- Hospitality Management
- Sports, Entertainment, Event Management
- Business Administration
- Entrepreneurship
JWU students can also choose from 32 online master’s degrees. One option is the accelerated online MBA. This popular program features over a dozen concentrations. Other online graduate programs include:
- Criminal Justice
- Data Analytics
- Engineering Management
- Food Safety
- Hospitality Management
- Human Resource Management
- Non-profit Management
- Nutrition
- Operations & Project Management
- Organizational Psychology
All online students at JWU have a dedicated personal advisor. Additionally, there are many other resources to help students be successful. For example, the online college offers free tutoring, career coaching, tech support, and more. Applying to JWU is free, and the school offers a wide range of financial assistance options.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $13,365
See Also: Top 25 Most Affordable Online Business Graduate Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
No Application Fee
Southern New Hampshire University is a four-year private university in Manchester, New Hampshire. This non-profit school boasts a student population of over 145,000. The school’s programs range from certificates to doctoral-level degrees. And it offers over 200 flexible online programs.
Southern New Hampshire University is committed to removing barriers to higher education. As such, there are no GPA requirements for undergraduate admissions. And SNHU is generous when it comes to transfer credits. Undergraduate students can transfer in up to 90 credits. This allows you to complete your degree no matter where you left off. Additionally, there are no college application fees. And the online college will walk you through the admission process to make it even easier.
The range of online degree options at Southern New Hampshire University is extensive. Some of the most popular online bachelor’s programs include:
- Accounting and Finance
- Environmental Sustainability
- Human Resource Management
- Industrial Organizational Psychology
- International Business
- Marketing
- Sport Management
- Communication
- Computer Science
- Screenwriting
- Creative Writing & English
- Software Engineering
- Fashion Merchandising & Management
- Game Art & Development
SNHU also offers a wide range of online graduate programs. This is one of the most affordable online colleges on our list. The online college is career-focused and offers several start dates a year. This way, you can get started when you’re ready. Online students can access a wide range of resources to help them succeed. Students have free online tutoring, 24/7 tech support, and academic coaching. There are also virtual events, online clubs, career services, and more.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $15,380
Lindsey Wilson College
Columbia, Kentucky
No Application Fee
Lindsey Wilson College is a private, non-profit school in Columbia, Kentucky. It is affiliated with the United Methodist Church. This small college serves about 2,600 students a year. It features small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1. So students get a personalized educational experience. LWC students can choose from over 40 areas of study. And there are five online degrees offered. These include:
- Bachelors in Business Administration
- Bachelors in Criminal Justice
- Bachelors in Human Services & Counseling
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education in Counseling
Lindsey Wilson College strives to make education affordable for its students. The school offers Federal financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans. To qualify, students must fill out the FAFSA each year. There are no college application fees.
LWC students have access to many services to support them through their time at school. Some of these include:
- Peer Tutoring
- Mathematics Tutoring
- Writing Consultation
- Katie Murrell Library
- Test Proctoring
- Disability Services
- Center for Entrepreneurship
- Counseling
- Career Services
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $26,228
Maryville University
Saint Louis, Missouri
No Application Fee
Maryville University is a non-profit private university in Saint Louis. It is one of Missouri’s oldest and most respected private universities. And it has a proud history of offering students a well-rounded liberal arts education. The school serves over 10,500 students and is known for its extensive list of online degree programs. Students at Maryville can earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from anywhere in the world. In fact, students from all 50 states and over 47 countries attend the school.
Students can choose from over 31 online undergraduate degree programs. And there are also 16 remote graduate programs to explore. Additionally, students can choose from nine professional online certificate programs. Some of the bachelor’s degrees include:
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
- Data Science
- Digital Media
- Exercise Science
- Healthcare Management
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Organizational Leadership
- Sustainability
A few of the online master’s degrees programs include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Data Analytics Health Administration
- Management and Leadership
- Nursing
- Software Development
- Speech-Language Pathology
Despite its size, Maryville has an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1. And the average class size is 14 students. This ensures that students get plenty of personalized attention from their instructors. For a private college, tuition is relatively affordable. Plus, the online college offers financial aid, scholarships, and, of course, applying is free.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $14,346
Brescia University
Owensboro, Kentucky
No Application Fee
Brescia University is a not-for-profit, private Catholic college in Owensboro, Kentucky. It was founded in the Ursuline tradition. And it focuses on social and personal transformation through education. This liberal arts school is small and has a student population of less than 900 students. However, it still has an impressive list of online degree programs. Students can choose from associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. There are also several online certificates. The bachelor’s programs include:
- Business Administration
- Human Resource Management
- Accounting
- Integrated Studies
- Theology with Emphasis in Pastoral Studies
- Social Work
- Psychology
- The online master’s degrees at Brescia University include:
- Master of Business Administration
- Clinical Psychology
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Social Work
Students access their courses through BUonline. This is the school’s flexible alternative learning environment. It was developed specifically for distance learners by Brescia University. Most of the online courses are offered in an eight-week, accelerated format. This allows you to earn your degree quickly so you can get started on your career.
Students learn from the same respected faculty that teach the on campus programs. And they have a host of resources to help them succeed. Some of these include tutoring, career services, tech support, and more. Interested students can also take a course demo online.
Brescia University offers many sources of financial assistance. This includes scholarships, grants, work-study, and loans. Students can check their eligibility using the school’s Academic Scholarship Estimator. There are no college application fees if you apply online.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $27,950
Related: 5 Advantages to Attending a Small College
Baker University
Baldwin City, Kansas
No Application Fee
Baker University is a small private, non-profit college in Baldwin City, Kansas. The school serves about 2,300 students. And it features a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1. So students can be assured of plenty of one-on-one interaction with their instructors. In addition, the school utilizes a cohort model. This allows you direct access to your classmates and faculty. And it provides outstanding networking opportunities. Students can choose from four online undergraduate degrees. They include
- Business Administration With Multiple Specializations
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Interdisciplinary Studies
The Interdisciplinary Studies major at Baker University allows students to build their own custom online program. They will work with an advisor to devise an online degree based on their professional interests. There are also nine master’s degree online programs to choose from:
- Instructional Design & Performance Technology
- Master of Arts in Education
- School Leadership
- Special Education
- Higher Education Leadership
- Organizational Leadership
- Business Administration
- Sport Management
- Nursing
Baker University also features three online doctoral programs with no residency requirements. They include:
- Doctor of Education in Instructional Design & Performance Technology
- Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
- Doctor of Education in Leadership in Higher Education
Baker University is military-friendly. And veterans and active-duty service members may qualify for tuition discounts. Additionally, the school offers financial aid, scholarships, and more. It also offers a free online college application.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $32,320
Related: Online Colleges for Active Military
Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida
No Application Fee
Florida Institute of Technology is a non-profit private research university in Melbourne, Florida. About 7,800 students study at Florida Tech, which comprises four academic colleges. The school has a robust online division as well. And students can choose from dozens of programs that can be completed 100% online. Some of the online bachelor’s degrees at Florida Tech include:
- Accounting
- Applied Psychology Child Advocacy
- Clinical Psychology
- Forensic Psychology
- Aviation Management
- Business Administration
- Computer Information Systems
- Healthcare Management
- Marketing
- Human Resources Management
Students can also choose from several master’s online programs. Some of these include:
- Organizational Leadership
- MBA
- Accounting
- Cybersecurity
- Finance
- Healthcare Management
- Information Technology Management
- Marketing
- Project Management
- Supply Chain Management
Florida Tech’s online MBA program has been ranked one of the top in the country by several publications. It is IACBE accredited and can be completed in as little as two years. Additionally, it features ten customizable specializations.
Students at FIY can apply for many financial assistance programs through the FAFSA. The school offers scholarships, grants, loans, and Federal financial aid. You may also be eligible for tuition reimbursement through your employer. For undergraduate students, there is no fee to apply.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $43,670
See Also: Top ten Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs
Norwich University
Northfield, Vermont
No Application Fee
Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the US. Located in rural Northfield, Vermont, it is open to both cadets and civilians. The school offers a wide range of bachelor’s completion programs. Plus, there are several online graduate degrees. Most can be completed in 18-24 months. And they are delivered asynchronously, so you can go at your own pace. The bachelor’s online programs include:
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Business Administration
- Computer Science & Information Systems
- Criminal Justice
- Management Studies
- National Security Studies
- Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis
- RN to BS in Nursing
Norwich also offers an even wider range of online graduate programs. These are taught in small, supportive learning communities by professional instructors. A few of the most popular online master’s degree programs include:
- Defense Policy
- Diplomacy
- Global Affairs
- International Relations
- Military History
- Museum Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing: Healthcare Systems Leadership
- Nursing: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing: Nurse Education
Norwich University completely covers the cost of the college application. And the school offers scholarships, financial aid programs, and military discounts. In addition, students have 24/7 access to technical support and a dedicated team of advisors. So they have all the resources they need to succeed.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $45,340
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
No Application Fee
Loyola University Chicago is an older Catholic University founded in 1870. The college is home to over 17,000 students. As a Jesuit University, Loyola promises to prepare people to lead extraordinary lives. Loyola University Chicago has been ranked in the top ten online colleges by U.S. News and World Report. And we have featured the school multiple times in our rankings.
Loyola has a robust online division. And the school offers eight degree completion online programs. However, LUC also has an extensive list of master’s and doctorate programs online. They are offered through ten of the university’s colleges and divisions. Some of the most popular master’s online programs at Loyola University Chicago include:
- Information Technology
- Pastoral Studies
- Bioethics and Health Policy
- Health Care Mission Leadership
- Health Informatics
- Public Health
- Instructional Design
- Public Service Leadership
- International Higher Education
- Language, Culture, and Curriculum
- Business Law
- Health Law
- Compliance and Enterprise Risk Management
- Children’s Law and Policy
Most of the online doctoral programs are delivered in a hybrid format. Candidates will need to come to campus for some required residency. However, the online programs are still highly flexible. And they allow students to maintain their careers while working through their studies.
Loyola University Chicago has an array of technology and academic resources for remote students. They include campus ministry services, tutoring, success coaches, and more. The rolling application deadline makes the admission process simple. Financial aid is available. And students will not need to pay an application fee.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $49,498
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, Missouri
No Application Fee
Saint Louis University is a private, non-profit college in St. Louis, Missouri. It also has a campus in Madrid, Spain. It is the oldest Catholic University in the country and serves over 13,000 students. It is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to faith and service. This no application fee online college was built on Jesuit traditions. And SLU strives to provide each student with a transformative education.
Saint Louis University offers programs in over 80 disciplines. And the school has a robust online division. Students can choose from among 34 online programs. All the programs have multiple start dates, so you can begin when it is right for you. And the coursework is flexible, so there’s no need to abandon your full-time job. Some of the undergraduate online programs include:
- Computer Information Systems
- Cybersecurity
- Emergency Management
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
- Quick View
- Project Management
- Security and Strategic Intelligence
- Technology and Leadership
Many of the undergraduate degrees can be completed as accelerated bachelor’s to master’s programs. This allows students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously. Online courses are offered through Canvas, the school’s learning management platform. Most classes are asynchronous, so you can complete your studies independently. However, there may be some scheduled class times, especially in the graduate programs.
SLU has been ranked in the Top 60 “Best Value Schools” in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. And over 90 percent of students at Saint Louis University receive financial assistance. Scholarships are also available for prospective students. And veterans and military members receive discounts. Students at SLU are fully supported by the faculty and staff. In addition, the college provides a free online application to prospective undergraduates.
Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
Tuition: $50,644
Overview of Application Fees For College
The average college application fee is around $45. And at many prestigious private schools, fees can be between $75-$90. This might be manageable if you are only applying to one school. But many students apply to multiple colleges. For example, some students will apply to 3-4 target schools, 3-4 safety schools, and 3-4 dream schools. This is a smart move that many experts recommend. However, the costs add up. Those who use this strategy can easily end up paying hundreds of dollars on application fees!
Are There Online Colleges That Don’t Charge To Submit An Application?
Yes! Our list does not include all of the online colleges with free applications. However, the accredited online colleges on our list represent some of the best. These schools offer a smooth admission process without unnecessary extra costs. Online schools that don’t require a fee to apply are ideal for students on a budget.
The School I Want to Attend Charges For The Application? What Should I Do If I Can’t Afford It?
Naturally, applying is only free at some schools. However, don’t avoid applying for college just because you can’t afford it. Many colleges will waive the application fee if you ask. So it is worth calling to request that the fee be removed. In addition, some schools have special programs for low-income students, veterans, or those on disability. You may need to fill out a few forms, but have patience.
Can I Qualify for College Application Fee Waivers?
Another way to avoid paying application fees is with an application fee waiver request. Each of the colleges you apply to must still approve your request. However, they generally will if you’ve gone about the admission process correctly. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain criteria. If any of these things apply to you, then you likely qualify for a fee waiver request:
- You live in federally subsidized public housing.
- You are homeless, an orphan, or in foster care.
- Your family receives public assistance.
- Your family meets the income guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service.
- You’re eligible for the Federal Free or Reduced Price Lunch program.
How Can I Get a College Application Fee Waiver?
There are a few easy ways to get your application fee waived. The first is to apply to colleges using the Common Application. The second is to apply with the Coalition Application. The third involves an SAT waiver. Let’s look at each of these scenarios briefly.
The Common Application
The Common App fee waiver will automatically waive application fees for all colleges you apply to through the Common App. Over 1,000 universities and colleges are Common App members. So this can help a lot. To obtain the waiver, you must meet the same requirements as those we laid out above. You will provide the reason for requesting a waiver and electronically sign the document. Your school counselor may need to confirm your eligibility.
The Coalition Application
The Coalition Application is similar to the Common App. However, there are fewer colleges in the Coalition. However, there are still 150 member schools. And the Coalition App streamlines the process. So it makes it easy to get a waiver every time you apply to a coalition school. First, you will check off a set of boxes that apply to your particular situation. Then, your counselor will receive the request for approval. Once the request is approved, you can bypass the payment screen when applying to a college.
You Had a Waiver for Your SAT
Maybe you got a waiver when you took your SAT. If this is true, the College Board will automatically provide unlimited college application fee waivers. They should be available in your College Board account once you are a Senior. Then you just print them out and send them along with your college applications.
Please note that in all these scenarios, the colleges will still need to approve your request for a waiver. Ultimately, the online colleges application fees are up to each school.
What if None of These Situations Applies to Me?
If none of the situations above apply to you, there are still a few things you can do. First, contact your high school counselor. They will usually have some alternate forms on hand. And you will need to get their signature anyhow. Secondly, call the admissions office of the college you are interested in. Find out what their policies are and ask for their advice. Remember, colleges want to make it easy for you to enroll. So they may have alternative ways to help you avoid the application fee. At the very least, you may be able to get the fee reduced.
Will My Application Be Treated Any Differently If I Don’t Pay an Application Fee?
If the school you want to attend has no application fees, the playing field is completely leveled for all students. If you are worried that your application won’t get noticed without a payment, don’t be. It is illegal to treat low-income applicants any differently, and most schools would not want to anyhow. The application process entails much more than just paying an application fee. There are other things you can do to get noticed:
- Indicate your interest in the school by maintaining regular contact.
- Submit all of the requested documentation on time.
- Let your personality shine through and highlight your accomplishments.
If you do apply for a waiver, be polite and thank those you speak with about the process. You never know who is in the admissions office that may have access to your application. Students who are rude or disrespectful on the phone should expect staff to make a note of this. It may even end up in your files, which would be far more damaging to your chances of entry than a waiver.
Are There Other Fees That Can Be Waived?
It’s essential to apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible during your school search. This will also help defray the cost of your online education. Additionally, there are a few other options to look into:
Test Waivers
As we already discussed, certain criteria can make you eligible for an SAT waiver. In addition, the ACT has a similar program based on financial need. Talk to your advisor or counselor about applying for assistance.
See Also: What is the Difference Between the SAT and the ACT?
CSS Profile Waivers
Additional financial help via scholarships and grants can be applied for by submitting a CSS profile. This is an application used by around 250 colleges to award non-federal aid. At some schools, it is a requirement. However, the cost is $25 for the first school and $16 for each additional school. Like online college application fees, these can add up. However, the CSS profile is free if your family income is under $100,000.
I Am Applying To Several Colleges. Will I Be Refunded the Application Fees if I Am Not Accepted?
Application fees typically help offset the staffing costs needed to handle applications. So most institutions do not offer refunds, regardless of whether you are accepted or denied. This may seem like another unfair obstacle for those struggling to make ends meet.
However, If you genuinely cannot afford the fees, don’t let cost get in the way regarding admissions. Many schools don’t directly advertise application fee waivers. However, as mentioned before, call the admissions office. Some colleges will make exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
What Else Do I Need To Apply To Colleges With No Application Fee?
The specific documents and requirements for undergraduate applications will vary. It largely depends on the school you are applying to. Naturally, you need the online college application form and fee waiver request. However, there are a few other documents typically required when applying. They include:
- SAT or ACT Scores
- Letters of Recommendation
- Resume or List of Extracurricular Activities
- Personal Statement or Essay
- High School Transcripts
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the requirements for each college you are interested in during your school search. There may be additional guidelines of documentation you need to submit to your online school. It can also help to look for online colleges with open enrollment and no application fee. While there may not be such a thing as free online colleges, there are still lots of ways to save.
What Are Rolling Admissions?
Some online schools have a rolling admissions policy. Rather than releasing admissions decisions at once, they send them as they evaluate applications. For the most part, the earlier you apply, the sooner you will receive a decision.
The advantage of rolling admissions is that you are more likely to get a spot in your chosen class by applying as soon as you can. However, a rolling admissions policy can also be helpful if you are trying to get into a course at the last minute.
Beyond Free Online College Applications: What’s Next?
There are many other things for prospective students to consider when they start applying to college. Are you wondering about the benefits of attending online schools? Read 5 of the Best Advantages of Attending College Online.
Another thing to consider when you start applying to college is how to fund your online education. You might want to check out, How Can I Find Financial Aid for Online College?
Did you know that online students are eligible for many scholarships? Read 5 Tips for Obtaining Scholarships to Online Colleges. Or check out our comprehensive library of articles detailing scholarship opportunities.
Final Thoughts
College is a considerable expense. But don’t let financial concerns stand in the way of your academic dreams. This list of online schools and the information above can help. For more information on online colleges, see our homepage: Top ten Online Colleges.
