APPLYING TO U.S. UNIVERSITIES WITH FEE WAIVERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR FALL 2025

Applying to Universities in the United States can be a costly endeavor, especially with the numerous fees involved in applications. For students applying for Fall 2025, many U.S. universities are offering application fee waivers. Some institutions extend these waivers to both International and U.S. applicants, while others may limit them based on residency or financial aid. In this blog, you will get to know about the universities offering fee waivers— make sure to confirm the specifics, as they can vary!

Understanding Fee Waivers

A few waiver is a waiver of the application fee typically ranging from $35 to $100, charged by universities during the application process. Fee waivers are usually offered to students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific requirements set by the University. 

Types of Fee Waiver 

Common Application Waiver

Available to students who have financial need and are applying through the Common App.

College Board Waiver

Students who received a few waiver for the SAT or ACT may also be eligible for an application fee waiver. 

University Specific Waiver

Some universities offer their own fee waivers, often requiring a separate request form. 

KEY U.S. UNIVERSITIES OFFERING FEE WAIVERS 

The following Universities are among those providing fee waivers for applicants this season. Be sure to verify if the waiver applied to international applicants, as some may restrict waivers to U.S. citizens: 

1. University of Wisconsin System: 

   Including campuses like Wisconsin-Stout Wisconsin-Whotewater, Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wisconsin-Parkside, Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Wisconsin-River Falls.

2. University of Portland: 

   Check if fee waivers are available for your specific applicant category. 

3. University of North Texas at Dallas:

   Offers fee waivers on various conditions, beneficial for both in-state and eligible international applicants.

4. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute: 

   Generally offers fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need. 

Other Universities offering Fee waivers:

1. University of Minnesota Rochester

2. University of Michigan-Flint

3. University of Dayton

4. Trinity Washington University

5. Texas A&M University-Commerce

6. Oakland University

7. Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

8. Manchester University 

9. Loyola University Chicago 

10. Indiana Tech

11. Illinois Institute of Technology

12. Florida institute of Technology 

13. DePaul University 

14. Columbia College

15. Clarkson University

16. Clark University 

These schools not only ease the financial burden but can also encourage early applications by offering waivers during open houses, through specific application channels, or based on financial need. 

How to Apply

To apply for a fee waiver, follow these steps: 

• Check the University’s website for eligibility criteria and application procedures.

• Submit a request form, usually available on the university’s website.

• Provide required documentation, such as proof of income or financial aid. 

Tips for future admission cycle

This list applies to the Fall 2025 cycle; however, if you are reading this for a later year, it's a good idea to verify the most current details. Some universities update their fee waiver policies annually, and others may have specific deadlines to apply for waivers. 

Conclusion

Applying to U.S universities with fee waivers can make the application process more accessible. By understanding the types of fee waivers, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, you can save money and increase your chances of getting accepted. Don't miss out on this opportunity- start researching and applying today. 

Got further questions about fee waiver eligibility or the U.S. application process? Hello Study Global is here to help!  Book a free counseling session to gain clarity, understand the steps, and boost your chances of success. With a 100% track record in admission counseling, we’re ready to guide you every step of the way. Just fill out our Contact Us  form or reach out to us directly.

Contact Us