Can I Get a Refund From the Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Like Trying to Get a Refund on a Haircut)
Ah, the Common App. The gateway to higher education, the digital portal to your future, and the source of many a stressed-out student’s existential crisis. But what about those pesky application fees? Can you get a refund if you change your mind, make a mistake, or (gasp!) get rejected?
The Short Answer: No, you can’t. It’s like trying to get a refund on that terrible haircut you got in college – once the money’s gone, it’s gone.
The Long, Drawn-Out Explanation (Because You Deserve the Whole Story)
Let’s be honest, college application fees are a pain. They’re like the annoying little brother of college tuition – they’re not as big, but they’re still a burden. And when you’re applying to multiple schools, those fees can really add up.
Unfortunately, the Common App is pretty clear about its refund policy: “All payments are final and there will be no refunds, credits, or cancellations except as otherwise expressly disclosed at the time of payment, indicated by the Common App in writing, or as may be required under applicable law.”
So, why the no-refund policy?
It’s not because the Common App is a bunch of greedy money-grubbers (although, let’s be real, they’re not exactly a non-profit organization). It’s because colleges have to cover the costs of processing your application. These costs include things like:
- Staff time: People have to read your essays, check your transcripts, and make sure your application is complete.
- System maintenance: The Common App needs to keep its servers running and its website updated.
- Security: They’ve got to protect your personal information from hackers and bad actors.
But what if you submitted your application to the wrong school? Or you realized you’ve made a mistake?
Sorry, but the Common App doesn’t have a “do-over” button. Once you submit your application, it’s out there in the digital world, accessible to all the colleges you’ve applied to.
What About Those “Mistakes?”
Missed Deadlines
If you missed a deadline, you’re out of luck. The Common App is very clear – no refunds for missed deadlines. It’s your responsibility to make sure you know the deadlines for each school and submit your application on time.
Programs No Longer Accepting Applicants
If you applied to a program that is no longer accepting applicants, you’re still not eligible for a refund. That’s because your application has already been processed and submitted.
You Change Your Mind
Let’s be real, we’ve all been there. You’re applying to college, you’re stressed, and you’re second-guessing everything. You might even change your mind about which schools you want to apply to.
Sadly, the Common App doesn’t care about your changing emotions. You are not entitled to a refund just because you’ve changed your mind.
So, what can you do if you really need a refund?
The only way to get a refund from the Common App is if:
- There was a glitch in their system, and you were charged twice for the same application.
- You were charged an incorrect fee, and the Common App is willing to fix their mistake.
- You are eligible for a fee waiver, but you were charged anyway.
The Bottom Line
The Common App is a great tool for applying to college, but it’s also a business. They have to cover their costs, and they’re not in the business of giving out refunds.
So, if you’re thinking about applying to college, make sure you’re prepared to pay the application fees. And if you’re not sure about a school, do your research and make sure it’s the right fit for you before you hit “submit.”
Need More Help?
If you have any other questions about refunds or the Common App in general, feel free to reach out to us at the JobLoving community! We’re always happy to help.