Before you pay an application fee

Ask before you register or pay

A fee waiver removes an eligible charge; a reduction lowers it. Neither is a cash scholarship. Ask your counselor which route fits the specific test, application, and school year. Do not assume a fee already paid will be refunded.

• SAT: eligible students can get benefits through a school counselor or College Board's fee-waiver request process. Check what is covered and whether a code is current.
• ACT: the official 2026–27 page lists up to two test fee waivers for eligible students in grades 11–12 testing in the U.S., its territories, or Puerto Rico. Start with your counselor; older references to four waivers do not establish the current limit.
• AP: ask your AP coordinator about a fee reduction and any additional state or school support. The final amount and local deadlines can differ.

Financial-aid and admissions forms are separate

CSS Profile is used by participating institutions for their aid processes. Its fee-waiver rules differ from test waivers and include U.S. residence conditions. Check the official criteria before submitting. A CSS Profile fee waiver does not mean you receive institutional aid.

Check each college's policy

Common App has a fee-waiver request in the Profile section, and colleges may have their own waivers. Acceptance and eligibility can vary by institution. Read each college's instructions and ask admissions when uncertain. Your counselor may need to confirm your request.