A free college application can be obtained in a variety of ways. One way is to look for schools that offer free applications to all students, those that accept applications online, and those that accept applications early. You can also apply for a college fee waiver or request a personal exception to the application fee requirements by contacting the college. If you have a close relative who attended the school before you, some colleges may waive fees. Individuals who attend open houses and tours may also be eligible for free applications.
Researching schools before applying is one way to get a free college application. Many schools provide free application assistance, though the reasons for this may vary. Some schools provide free applications to all applicants, while others provide this benefit only to those who apply online. Many colleges also waive application fees if you apply by a certain deadline. Additionally, you may be able to apply for free if you sign a contract stating that if you are accepted, you will attend the school in question.
If you apply for a waiver, you may also be eligible for a free college application. There are numerous college application fee waiver programs available to low-income students. However, there are usually guidelines for determining what constitutes a low enough income to qualify. If your income is at or below the poverty level, you may be eligible in many places. You may also be eligible for certain government programs if you meet certain criteria.
If you are unable to obtain a waiver through an organization that does so, you may contact the college to which you are applying for assistance and explain your financial situation in order to have your application fee waived. While this may not be standard procedure, a college representative might be willing to make an exception for you. This is especially true if you can demonstrate dire circumstances. Furthermore, some schools may agree to waive fees for outstanding students.
Individuals are sometimes granted waivers based on the legacy of family members who have attended the college in question. If one of your parents or siblings attended the school to which you are applying, you may be eligible for a waiver based on this history. These waivers are frequently referred to as “legacy waivers” by colleges.
If a student attends a specific event, a school may offer the student a free college application. Students who attend an open house, for example, may be eligible for free applications from some colleges. Others may offer free applications to students who take a tour of a college.