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An application fee is a non-refundable charge that universities collect to process and review student applications. This fee helps cover the cost of reviewing your documents and evaluating your profile.

In the USA, the average application fee for universities falls between ₹4,000 to ₹12,000 (around $50 to 150). Some of the top universities, like Harvard, Stanford, or MIT, may charge even more - up to ₹15,000 (around $180) per application.

If you’re applying to several universities, these fees can add up quickly. 

Here's a rough idea of how much it might cost:

• For 5 to 6 universities: Around ₹25,000 to ₹60,000 ($300 to  $720)
• For 10 to 12 universities: Between ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh ($600 to $1,200)

That's a big amount, especially when you also have to pay for exams, visa processing, and travel. This is why many students look for universities that waive application fees or offer fee waivers.

Many universities offer application fee waivers to students facing financial difficulties or those who meet specific eligibility criteria. Some universities also do not charge application fees at all, allowing students to apply without any upfront cost.

Some universities in the USA waive application fees to encourage more students to apply, especially those from diverse backgrounds or financially disadvantaged families. Applying to multiple universities can become expensive. To remove this financial barrier, universities offer fee waivers or free applications under specific conditions.

Many well-known universities in the USA, including Harvard, Yale, and Carnegie Mellon University, offer fee waivers based on financial need or other eligibility criteria.

Here are the main reasons why US universities waive application fees:

• To attract more international students: Universities want students from different countries to apply. Waiving the fee makes it easier for international students to consider them.
• To promote equal opportunities: Some students cannot afford multiple application fees. Universities that believe in fairness often waive the fee for students from low-income families.
• To support first-generation college students: If you are the first in your family to go to college, some universities will waive the fee to encourage you to apply.
• To encourage early applications: Some colleges waive the fee for students who apply early through early decision or priority deadlines.
• To reduce administrative costs: Many students start applications but don’t finish them. Waiving the fee for selected students can reduce this burden.
• To partner with organisations: Universities work with platforms like the Common App, Coalition App, or College Board to give fee waivers to eligible students.
  

Many top-ranked universities, including Ivy League universities like including Harvard (QS Rank #4) and Yale (QS Rank #23), waive application fees for eligible students based on financial need. Additionally, many mid-tier and private universities, such as Case Western Reserve University and Michigan Technological University, do not charge application fees at all. 

This is a significant cost-saving measure for international students, especially those applying to multiple institutions. Choosing universities with waived or no application fees allows students to allocate their budget to crucial expenses like standardized tests, visa applications, and living costs in the USA.

Here are some of the top universities in the USA without any application fee:

Let’s get into the details!

1. Harvard University

The top name on the list is an Ivy League institution, Harvard University! The alma mater of the who's who, notably Susan Wojcicki (CEO of YouTube), Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and more. Additionally, Harvard University World Rankings 2025 is #4. Several factors make Harvard University top-notch, but one of the primary factors is that it offers an option to apply for a fee waiver too!

A fee waiver is available from Harvard Business School for candidates belonging to underprivileged financial backgrounds. You will be required to complete a waiver form asking for your financial details, and the justification for your request for a need-based fee waiver from HBS.

To complete the form thoroughly, mention your earnings, wealth, student loan debt, family responsibilities, and/or any other conditions that might justify a fee waiver. 

2. Yale University

The Yale School of Management at Yale University offers fee waivers on a sliding basis. It implies that the Yale application cost would be determined by your or your family's existing income. The application fee is ₹14,559 ($175) for those making $30,000 (₹25 lakhs) or less annually. It is â‚¹10,399 ($125) for applicants making under ₹12.5 Lakhs ($15,000) annually.

For the School of Arts and Sciences at Yale, fee waivers may be granted on the basis of:

• Participation in a special program, event, fellowship, or status
• Documented financial hardship

3. Carnegie Mellon University

International applicants can receive fee waivers from Carnegie Mellon University, one of the top 100 universities in the world. For applying to the School of Computer Science, you will have to:

• Obtain a financial aid letter that outlines your financial needs briefly and includes any supporting evidence for your application.
• CMU will verify your need after receiving your application and waive the application fees for no more than two programmes.

The Master of Software Engineering programme is also eligible for cost waivers from the Software and Societal Systems Department (need-based). A voucher code for your application or a full waiver will be sent once the university department validates the requirement. This process might take three to five business days. Be patient during the timeframe!

4. Northeastern University

For undergraduate applicants, Northeastern University, Boston offers a need-based application fee waiver for the ₹6,239 ($75) fee.

Northeastern University, Boston (NEU) takes requests for fee waivers based on need into consideration as many other universities do. If you come from a low-income family, NEU gives you a fantastic opportunity to apply without having to pay the full amount. The university often provides waivers on particular days to encourage more graduate programme applications.

5. California State University

California State University (CSU) is one of the largest and most affordable public university systems in the USA, with 23 campuses spread across California. It enrolls over 480,000 students annually, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes  in fields like business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. Many CSU campuses consistently rank among the top regional universities in the U.S.

A renowned university in the US, California State University offers application fee waivers to students who have stayed in California for a year, or non-US citizens who qualify for AB540 non-resident tuition. This makes it an attractive option for international students looking for cost-effective education in the U.S.

6. Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) is a highly-ranked private research university located in Cleveland, Ohio, offers application fee waivers for eligible students, particularly those facing financial hardship or participating in specific educational programmes.

Ranked #259 in the QS World Rankings 2025, it attracts students globally for its cutting-edge research facilities and hands-on learning opportunities. The university has a 93% employment rate within six months of graduation, making it a strong choice for students looking for career-driven education.

With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, Case Western Reserve University ensures personalized academic mentorship and excellent research opportunities, making it a top choice for students seeking a rigorous yet affordable education in the U.S.

7. University of Dayton

The University of Dayton (UD) university offers an application fee waiver for international students, making the application process more accessible. Additionally, UD provides generous merit-based scholarships that range up to ₹12 lakhs - ₹25 lakhs ($15,000 - $30,000) per year, helping students manage tuition costs. Its small class sizes and a student-to-faculty ratio of 14:1 ensure personalized attention, while its strong corporate partnerships provide excellent internship and job opportunities.. 

Ranked #401-450 in the QS World Rankings 2025, it is known for its strong engineering, business, and law programmes.  With a focus on experiential learning, UD has a 96% employment or graduate school placement rate within six months of graduation, making it a great choice for career-oriented students.

8. Michigan Technological University

Michigan Tech provides an application fee waiver for certain applicants, including military personnel, low-income students, and those applying through designated partner programmes.  The university also offers generous financial aid and scholarships to international students, making it an attractive option for those looking for quality education at an affordable cost.

Located in Houghton, Michigan, Michigan Technological University (MTU) is a leading public research university known for its STEM-focused programmes,  particularly in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. It attracts students interested in innovative research opportunities and has strong industry connections in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and renewable energy.

9. Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University (SLU) is a private Jesuit research university located in St. Louis, Missouri. Ranked #951-1000 in the QS World Rankings 2025, SLU is known for its strong emphasis on research, healthcare, and business programmes.

Saint Louis University waives the application fee for international students, making it a cost-effective choice for applicants. Additionally, SLU provides generous merit-based scholarships that can range from ₹18 lakhs - ₹30 lakhs ($22,000 - $36,000) per year, significantly reducing tuition costs.

With campuses in both the U.S. and Spain, students can also explore global learning experiences. SLU's commitment to service, innovation, and academic excellence makes it an attractive option for students looking for a well-rounded, globally connected education.

10. Drake University

Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Drake University is a private institution that has built a reputation for academic excellence, leadership development, and hands-on learning opportunities. Despite being a smaller university, it consistently ranks among the top regional universities in the Midwest and has strong business, law, and journalism programmes.  The university’s QS World Ranking 2025 is #179, reflecting its solid academic reputation.

One of Drake’s biggest advantages is its application fee waiver for international students, making it an appealing option for those looking to save on upfront costs. With a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, the university ensures personalized learning experiences and direct engagement with faculty mentors.

Many US universities provide application fee waivers to specific groups of students based on their financial situation, background, or participation in certain programmes.  These waivers help reduce the financial burden of applying to multiple universities, allowing more students to pursue higher education without worrying about initial costs.

Application fee waivers are typically granted to:

• Students from low-income backgrounds who demonstrate financial need.
• First-generation college students to encourage greater access to higher education.
• Applicants participating in special academic programmes,  such as the College Board’s SAT Fee Waiver programme or the Common App.
• Military personnel, veterans, and their dependents as part of universities’ support for service members.
• Students apply through partner organisations such as QuestBridge, Posse Foundation, or National Merit Scholarship programmes.
• International students from underprivileged regions or those affected by economic hardships.

Below are some top US universities that offer application fee waivers for specific groups of students:

"What is a few hundred dollars spent on application fees? it is a small expense for my dream university!" 

This thought is quite understandable; however, studying in the USA requires a considerable financial commitment. You must keep your finances in check wherever you can.

If you want to apply to several universities (ambitious/moderate/safe), it might be quite beneficial to shortlist some best universities in the USA with application fee waivers for international students. An application fee waiver (also known as an app fee waiver) is a cancellation or reduction in the application fee provided by a university to potential candidates.

Here’s why it’s beneficial to look for no-application fee universities in the USA:

• Save significant money: The average application fee in the USA is between ₹3,300 - ₹12,500 ($40 - $150). If you apply to 8-10 universities, you could spend around ₹83,000 - ₹1.2 lakh ($1,000 - $1,500). Fee waivers help you use that money for other important expenses like tuition, rent, or visa processing.
• Apply to more universities: When you don’t have to pay the application fee, you can apply to more colleges. This increases your chances of getting into a university that’s a good fit.
• Open to all degree levels: Many US universities waive application fees for undergraduate, postgraduate, and MBA programmes. So, you can benefit no matter which level you’re applying to.
• Help with other costs: Studying in the USA comes with many expenses like airfare, visa fees, and health insurance. Saving on application fees lets you plan your budget better.
• Easier to reapply: If you don’t get in the first time, fee waivers make it easier to apply again without worrying about extra costs.
  

Further on, we will cover leading universities where you can get an app fee waiver and the criteria required for each. Begin perusing!

Now that we know about the universities, let’s address the biggest question: How do you find or get these application fee waiver codes? To obtain waiver codes for the universities listed, follow these steps:

• Contact Admissions: Reach out to each university’s admissions office to ask about fee waivers. Believe it or not, they can be quite generous if you politely ask!
• Check Events: Attend virtual or in-person university events; these often come with waiver opportunities.
• Use Platforms: Some platforms like Common App or Coalition App provide fee waiver options based on eligibility.

To apply to a university in the USA without an application fee, you need to research eligibility, prepare documents, and complete the application process as required by the university. Knowing these requirements can help international students save costs while ensuring a smooth application process. Applying to US universities without an application fee follows a process similar to applying to universities with a standard fee.

Most no-application-fee universities in the USA allow students to apply through common platforms like the Common Application (Common App), the Coalition Application, or their own portals.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying to US universities that waive application fees:

• Step 1 - Research universities with no application fees: Make a shortlist of the colleges that provide the programme you want. Make sure that you consider US universities that waive an application fee to prospective international students.
• Step 2 - Check eligibility requirements: Check the qualifying requirements on the official websites of all the colleges you want to apply to, including those without an application fee in the USA.
• Step 3 - Prepare required documents: Gather your transcripts, test scores (if applicable), recommendation letters, and statement of purpose (SOP) to complete the application.
• Step 4 - Submit the online application: Complete the online application, pay the application fee if necessary, and request an application fee waiver when applying to American universities, wherever applicable.
• Step 5 - Apply for financial aid: If you want to receive financial aid, apply for international student scholarships.
• Step 6 - Track your application status: Monitor the admission portal for updates. Some universities may request additional documents or schedule interviews.
• Step 7 - Accept admission and confirm enrollment: If selected, review the offer and pay any necessary tuition deposit to secure your place.
• Step 8 - Apply for a student visa: Once you receive the admission confirmation, apply for a US student visa (F-1 visa) and prepare for travel.

To save money on college application fees, you can apply to universities with no application fees, request need-based application fee waivers or even check with your school counsellor for possible fee waivers. Some universities also waive fees for early decision applicants or students applying through sponsored programmes.

Here are some key ways to reduce your application costs:

• Apply to no-fee universities: Look for US colleges that do not charge any application fee. This can help you avoid extra expenses.
• Request need-based waivers: If you are facing financial difficulties, many universities allow you to request a fee waiver.
• Use test-based fee waivers: If you qualify for fee waivers on exams like the SAT, ACT, or GRE, some colleges may also waive their application fees.
• Get fee waiver codes: Universities often give out fee waiver codes during online events, webinars, or education fairs. These codes let you apply for free.
• Use Common App or Coalition App waivers: These platforms let you request a single fee waiver that can apply to multiple colleges if you meet the eligibility criteria.
• Ask your school counsellor: School counsellors often have access to application fee waivers and can help you request one.
• Apply through sponsored programmes: Some colleges partner with study-abroad platforms, lenders, or special initiatives to offer fee waivers for international students.

Applying to a university without paying an application fee can help you save money. But it’s important to remember that other expenses may still apply. These can include test fees, transcript evaluations, and visa charges.

Also, fee waivers are usually given based on financial need or academic performance. So make sure to check the university’s website for full details and deadlines.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Fee waivers are not automatic: Some universities require you to submit a separate request and may ask for proof of financial need.
• Other costs still apply: Even if the application is free, you may still need to pay for exams like the SAT, GRE, or GMAT, as well as for document processing and visa applications.
• Limited to certain programmes: Some universities only waive fees for undergraduate courses. Graduate and professional programmes may still have charges.
• Deadlines matter: Universities offering fee waivers often have early deadlines. Applying on time is important to get the benefit.
• Policies vary by university: Some universities waive the fee for all eligible students automatically. Others may have specific rules based on income, academic record, or other criteria.

Always visit the university’s official website to get the most accurate and updated information. This helps you avoid any last-minute surprises.

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