How Much Does It Cost to Send a Common App? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not Always Free!)
You’re on the cusp of adulthood, ready to embark on the thrilling, stressful, and often confusing journey of college applications. You’ve got your transcripts, essays, and recommendations in order, but then you hit a roadblock – the dreaded application fee. You might be thinking, “Hold on! Didn’t they say the Common App was free?”
Well, my friend, you’re partially right. The Common App itself is free as a bird (or at least as free as a platform can be in this money-hungry world). But those pesky colleges, they have a way of making things a little less breezy.
The Short and Sweet Version:
- The Common App platform is free. Think of it as your trusty sidekick, helping you navigate the college application process with a single application.
- Each college charges its own application fee. It’s like a toll booth on the highway to higher education, and the price tag can range from $30 to $75 for U.S. citizens, and even more for international students.
- Fee waivers are available. If your bank account is looking a little thin, don’t fret! The Common App has your back with fee waivers, allowing you to apply to colleges without the financial burden.
Let’s Dive Deeper into This Financial Jungle
Now, let’s break down the fees and the fine print, because when it comes to college applications, the devil is in the details.
The Common App: Free as a Bird, but Colleges Have Their Own Plans
Imagine the Common App as a bustling marketplace where colleges are setting up their own shops. The marketplace itself is free, but each shop owner (college) decides on their own price for entry.
Those Pesky Application Fees: It’s a Numbers Game
Colleges, being the business savvy folks they are, justify these application fees by claiming it helps cover the cost of processing your application. It’s like saying, “Hey, we’re a small business, and we need to pay our rent!”
The good news is that these fees don’t break the bank (usually). You’re looking at an average of $55 per application, but some schools charge higher fees. For example, Harvard and Stanford, those esteemed universities with their Ivy-covered walls and legendary reputations, slap on a hefty $85 and $90 respectively.
International Students: The Fee Factor Gets Even More Complex
If you’re an international student, be prepared for a bit of a financial shock. The application fees for you can be significantly higher, sometimes exceeding $100. It’s like having to pay a premium for the privilege of being a global citizen.
The Fee Waiver: Your Financial Savior
The Common App recognizes that not everyone has a trust fund or a scholarship waiting in the wings. That’s why they offer the Common App Fee Waiver – your financial knight in shining armor.
How to Apply for the Fee Waiver:
- Head to the Common App website and create an account. This is your first step into the wonderful world of college applications.
- Navigate to the “Profile” section of the Common App tab. This is where you’ll find the fee waiver option.
- Select the option stating that you are eligible for the fee waiver. They’ll ask you to provide some financial information to verify your eligibility.
- Once approved, you’ll be granted a fee waiver for every college you apply to through the Common App. It’s like saying goodbye to those pesky application fees!
A Word of Caution: Fee Waivers are Not a Free Pass
Don’t get carried away with the excitement of fee waivers and apply to every single college under the sun. Remember, the application process is a marathon, not a sprint. Choose colleges strategically, focusing on those that are a good fit for you academically, financially, and personally.
Other Ways to Save Money on College Applications
- Check individual college websites: Some colleges offer their own fee waivers, even if you aren’t eligible for the Common App fee waiver.
- Look for scholarships and grants: Don’t underestimate the power of scholarships and grants. Many organizations offer financial assistance for college applications, so it’s worth doing some research.
The Bottom Line: College Applications Aren’t Always Cheap
As you can see, navigating the world of college applications isn’t always as simple as it seems. While the Common App itself is free, colleges have a way of adding their own fees, which can add up. But don’t fret! There are ways to save money, from applying for fee waivers to exploring other financial aid options.
Need More Help or Research Resources?
If you’re still scratching your head about the cost of college applications or need more information about the Common App, don’t hesitate to connect with the JobLoving community. We’re a friendly bunch of folks who are always happy to help! We’ve got a wealth of knowledge and resources to help you navigate the confusing world of college applications. So, come on in, ask questions, and let’s conquer this together!