How Much Do College Applications Cost? Tips on How to Save on Costs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

It is no secret that the pursuit of higher education does not come cheap. Unfortunately, these expenses start well before college-bound students set foot on the hallowed halls of their preferred institutions. As such, this may bring one to ask “how much do college applications cost?"

During the 2019-2020 admissions cycle, a total of 5.6 million college applications were submitted by students across the nation (NACAC, 2021). However, college enrollment numbers for the 2020-21 academic year decreased by 4.2% from the previous year, while freshmen enrollment numbers saw a 13% drop (Leukhina and Werner, 2021). One factor that contributed to this is the high costs associated with a college education—a problem that has been further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

So, how much are college applications? This article provides a breakdown of the expenses incurred in applying for college. To give you an idea of how much a college application would cost, the different testing fees and auxiliary fees are discussed. Also provided are ways to save on college applications.

How Much Do College Applications Cost Table of Contents

The Cost of Applying to College
Exploring Affordable Alternatives to Standard College Applications
Are online degree programs a cost-effective alternative?
College Application Rates Across the United States
What Do You Need to Complete an Application for College Online?
How to Save on College Application
Financial Aid Opportunities to Cover College Application Costs
How Can Selecting an Affordable Bachelor's Degree Program Influence Long-Term Costs?
How can students reduce the overall cost of applying to graduate school?
Can Community Colleges Offer a More Affordable Educational Path?
How can accelerated degree programs lower overall education expenses?
Are fast associates degree online programs a cost-effective option?
Do high-paying bachelor's degrees justify the initial cost of college applications?

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The Cost of Applying to College

Do college applications cost money? Absolutely, and the average application fee for college in the U.S. is $50, with elite schools charging higher rates. So, it is not surprising that college-bound students often ask why application fees for colleges are so expensive.

The admissions process, which includes screening, verifying, and evaluating applications requires a lot of staff resources and entails a significant number of work hours. The application fee collected from students is used to fund this rigorous admission process. It also includes the technology cost for running the application portal, admission review cost, maintenance, and improvements in the online technology that handles the online application. The rest of the revenue goes to financing applicants from low-income families that apply for waivers.

Now comes the next question: how much are application fees? The application fee for the undergraduate is typically different from the graduate application fee. Transferees and international students are also charged a different rate. The following table provides a snapshot of a list of college application fees charged by highly selective schools.

College

Application Fee

Stanford University

$90

Duke University

$85

Yale University

$80

Cornell University

$80

Boston University

$80

New York University

$80

Harvard University

$75

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

$75

Brown University

$75

University of Texas Austin

$75

Northwestern University

$75

University of Chicago

$75

Rutgers University

$70

University of California Davis

$70

Pennsylvania State University

$65

Vanderbilt University

$50

University of South Florida

$30

University of Florida

$30

Florida State University

$30

SAT, ACT, and AP Testing Fees

In applying for college, there are other requirements aside from paying the application fee. Most colleges also require the submission of Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), American College Testing (ACT), or Advanced Placement (AP) scores.

The SAT score reflects the student’s ability to learn at the postsecondary level. Most colleges do not require the SAT, but merit scholarships and other college financing require SAT scores. The cost for registering for SAT or ACT could end up higher than the cost of your college application because most students take these exams more than once to increase scores.

In some states, fees are waived for these exams when taken for the first time. For succeeding attempts, however, the exam is no longer free. So if you want to take the SAT or ACT again to get higher scores, you have to consider these additional fees in your college application cost. In 2020, due to the circumstances brought about by the pandemic, colleges made the SAT and ACT optional for students. For the 2021 round of admissions, however, most colleges resumed requiring these tests.

Aside from the testing fees, the SAT also has corresponding charges for auxiliary services such as phone registration, late registration, test center change, and inclusion to the waitlist. There are also SAT preparation classes and SAT tutors available for a fee.

SAT Test

Fee

SAT

$52

SAT with essay

$68

SAT subject test registration

$26

SAT subject test

$22 per test

SAT language with listening

$26

SAT international student testing fee

$43 - $53 depending on region

SAT score fee

$12 per report

SAT score rush order

$31

SAT score manual verification

$55

Meanwhile, the ACT is a standardized test used for college admissions in the U.S. The ACT Free Waiver Program covers up to four ACTs, with or without the optional writing test. Students that register with the fee waiver are also provided learning resources, additional score reports, and waived college application fees.

ACT Test

Fee

Full ACT

$60

Full ACT with writing

$85

Test option change

$25

Late registration

$36

Change fee

$40

Additional score reports

$16

Lastly, the AP exam is another cost that you have to consider in preparing for college. Unlike the SAT and the ACT, the AP exam also offers courses that can earn you credit in college. Compared to the SAT and ACT, the AP exam is more expensive. Most schools do not require the AP exam, but passing the AP exam demonstrates mastery of rigorous college-level material. Although the College Board recommends taking the AP course prior to taking the exam, you may take the exam without taking an AP course.

AP Test

Fee

Exam (except AP Seminar and AP Research) taken at US territories

$96

Exam (except AP Seminar and AP Research) taken outside the US

$126

AP Seminar or AP Research Exam

$144

Late order fee

$40

Unused/canceled exam fee

$40

Other College Application Expenses

Aside from the testing fees, other additional costs include securing copies of your high school transcript and taking college essay tutorials. Online, there are sites from which you can request a copy of your high school transcript, such as Parchment and NeedMyTranscript. However, if your school is not included in the database of these third-party sites, you may check the website of the high school you attended and request a copy of your transcript online.

Another way to secure your high school transcript is by coordinating with the Department of Education office in your state. Your school district, which is searchable on the National Center for Education Statistics website, also keeps a record of your transcript.

In addition to submitting transcripts, some students who desire to excel in college application testing take college essay tutorials, which makes it another cost to consider in the overall college application budget. The cost of these tutorials ranges from $50 to $100. Check with your guidance office as some schools offer group tutorials.

Exploring Affordable Alternatives to Standard College Applications

For many students, the rising costs of traditional college applications can feel like a barrier. An often-overlooked yet valuable alternative is pursuing online degree programs, which frequently have lower or waived application fees. Online programs not only reduce upfront costs but also eliminate many associated expenses, such as travel for in-person interviews or campus visits.

For students looking to strike a balance between affordability and quality, one viable option is to consider cheap online bachelor degree programs. These programs offer flexibility and cost-effectiveness while maintaining academic rigor. Many institutions offering online degrees are designed to cater to non-traditional students, making them an excellent choice for those juggling work, family obligations, or other commitments. Additionally, applying to these programs oftentimes avoids the steep fees associated with conventional colleges.

Moreover, many online colleges participate in financial assistance programs or offer scholarships specifically for remote learners. This ensures that students can not only afford the application process but also manage tuition costs long-term. Opting for an online program can open doors to higher education without the financial strain of traditional pathways.

Are online degree programs a cost-effective alternative?

Online degree programs often offer streamlined application processes with reduced ancillary fees compared to traditional institutions. These programs typically minimize expenses related to transcript processing, on-campus visits, and supplemental documentation, effectively lowering the overall barrier to entry. Additionally, specialized fields—such as nursing—feature online pathways that are structured to deliver both quality and affordability; for instance, students interested in exploring the cheapest ADN online programs can benefit from significantly reduced costs. This approach not only curbs initial application expenses but also provides long-term financial advantages by potentially lowering tuition and associated fees.

College Application Rates Across the United States

The college admissions process involves the submission of an application and paying the corresponding application fee. In the U.S., colleges charge different rates for application. The application fee covers the cost of reviewing, verifying, and evaluating the applications. So why not charge a uniform amount, one might ask. Because reviewing applications requires time and resources, some institutions intentionally charge a higher fee to ensure that only serious applicants will send their applications.

On average, at most four-year, not-for-profit institutions, the college application fee is about $50. Among 62 four-year institutions with the highest application fees, the average is $77. A student’s total application costs can quickly add up because hardly anyone just submits one application. Since 2014, almost 36% of first-time college applicants sent applications to seven or more colleges (Clinedinst, 2019).

Currently, the top five colleges in the U.S. that charge higher than average application fees are the University of California San Diego in California, Arkansas Baptist College in Arkansas, Stanford University in California, Columbia University in New York, and Duke University in North Carolina.

School Name

State

Application Fee

University of California—San Diego

$105

Arkansas Baptist College

$100

Stanford University

$90

Columbia University

$85

Duke University

$85

North Carolina State University

$85

Syracuse University (NY)

$85

University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill

$85

University of Southern California

$85

Woodbury University

$85

Boston University

$80

Cornell University

$80

On the other end of the spectrum are colleges that charge less than $35 per application, which include Huntington University in Indiana, Northwest University in Washington, Alabama State University in Alabama, and Pine Manor College in Massachusetts.

School Name

State

Application Fee

Louisiana State University

East Central University

Huntington University

Alabama State University

Georgia Southwestern State University

California University of Pennsylvania

University of Bridgeport

Pine Manor College

Colorado State University-Pueblo

California Lutheran University

Chicago State University

Northwest University

With this data in mind, one can conclude that many of the most well-known schools across the country charge more for admissions than other institutions. This can make it difficult for budget-conscious students and deter them from applying to their target schools.

An interesting observation on college applications by Black et al. (2020) was published in Education Finance and Policy. Titled “Apply Yourself: Racial and Ethnic Differences in College Application," the study found that “A more nuanced type of inequality in the college application behavior of Black high school graduates, an issue not previously identified in studies that aggregate Black and Hispanic students as a single group. On average, Black students are actually more likely to apply to college than White and Hispanic students with similar levels of college readiness and high school quality. However, this is driven mostly by high application rates among less-prepared Black students. Among the most qualified students, Black students have similar overall application rates to white students but are more likely to apply to flagship universities."

Luckily, regardless of your level of college readiness, there are ways to save on college application costs.

What Do You Need to Complete an Application for College Online?

Gather and verify all essential documents well before initiating your submission. Begin with official high school transcripts, up-to-date standardized test reports, and a well-crafted personal statement that clearly outlines your academic and career objectives. Additionally, secure letters of recommendation, supplemental essays, or portfolios as specified by the institution. Review each requirement to ensure qualification alignment and avoid delays in processing. For detailed guidance, refer to the application for college online checklist provided by accredited resources.

How to Save on College Application

Most people would say that the cost of a college application is just a drop in the bucket compared to the cost of tuition and other college fees, but why pay outright the full amount when there are ways to trim the cost? Below are some ways that you can consider, aside from looking for a side hustle while learning how to register a company.

Identify Colleges With No Application Fee

Not all colleges charge an application fee. While the most well-known and selective universities are known to charge higher than average application fees, there are high-ranking schools that process applications without charging a fee. Most online colleges, liberal arts schools, and Christian schools typically do not charge an application fee.

More colleges are embracing fee-free applications as research through the years has shown that some students, specifically those from low-income families, are often discouraged in applying to more competitive colleges due to application fees.

Look for Schools that Accept Application Fee Waivers

Most schools waive the application fee for students that need financial assistance. You may request your high school guidance counselor to assist you in accomplishing the college application fee waiver from the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). NACAC’s Request for Admission Application Fee Waiver Form is a waiver that is accepted by most colleges. Aside from coordinating with your school guidance office, there are a variety of ways to get an application fee waiver.

Through Common Application

Also known as the Common App, this application process app provides college application fee waivers. The Common App enables students to file a single application to all prospective schools, and at the same time provides the Common App fee waiver for each particular school that you are applying for. Note that the Common App does not include all schools so check their website first if the school you are eyeing is part of the consortium. Similar requirements apply—demonstrated student need for financial assistance—for the waiver to be approved.

Through Coalition Application

The Coalition App is similar to the Common App but has fewer member colleges. This app also streamlines the college application process and issues application fee waivers to qualified students.

Through SAT and SAT Subject Tests

You will automatically get unlimited college application fee waivers from the College Board if you took the SAT or one or more SAT subject tests with a fee waiver. You may use these waivers in applying to schools that accept application fee waivers. You may access these waivers in your College Board account anytime you need to print one for application. You may search in the College Board website for colleges that accept application fee waivers.

Check Testing Requirements

During the Fall 2020 freshmen application, most schools eliminated the SAT and ACT testing requirements (Jeschik, 2021). The test-optional admission policies launched by schools in 2020 to accommodate more applicants during the pandemic eliminated the cost of testing. While some schools have resumed SAT and ACT testing in 2021, many institutions are considering making test-optional admission policies permanent. For this reason, always check the testing requirements of each college that you have on your shortlist.

Complete Your Application Online

Some colleges charge significantly lower application fees to students who complete their applications online because it reduces the school’s administrative costs. It is a form of incentive for the student, and also offers significant savings on overall application costs.

Make a Balanced College List

To cut on costs, carefully research the schools that you have on your shortlist. You need to have a list of schools that you are seriously interested in attending. Identify your likely, target, and reach schools.

Likely looking at the middle 50% of the students who are typically admitted in this school, you have a stronger academic profile
Target looking at the middle 50% of the students who are typically admitted to this school, your academic profile is almost similar
Reach looking at the middle 50% of the students who are typically admitted to this school, your academic profile is not as strong

Given these criteria, aim for target schools but you may also send applications to reach and likely schools. The point of creating a balanced college list is, you only need to apply to schools that are likely to accept you, and that you will strongly consider attending. Applying to multiple schools may be considered a smart move, but it pays to have a plan with a clear objective.

What financial aid opportunities can help cover college application costs?

In addition to application fee waivers, financial aid opportunities can help cover various costs associated with applying to college. Many students are unaware that several financial aid resources are available specifically to assist with pre-college expenses like testing fees, transcript requests, and other application-related costs. Here are some key financial aid options that can help alleviate the financial burden:

Federal and state financial aid programs: Many students qualify for need-based federal aid programs like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Although FAFSA typically covers tuition and other post-enrollment expenses, some states and local programs offer specific grants or support to help with college application fees.
Private scholarships for application costs: Some private organizations and foundations provide scholarships that cover not just tuition but also the cost of applications, standardized tests, and other pre-enrollment expenses. Many community foundations, for instance, offer financial support to low-income students applying to multiple colleges.
Institution-specific grants or fee assistance: Certain colleges and universities provide need-based grants that help students offset pre-enrollment costs. Check with your target schools to see if they offer any programs for reducing application or testing fees.
Work-study opportunities: In some cases, high school students can access work-study programs or part-time jobs through local community organizations, which can help them save for application-related expenses.

How Can Selecting an Affordable Bachelor's Degree Program Influence Long-Term Costs?

Choosing an affordable undergraduate program can have a significant impact on long-term educational expenses. Students who opt for cost-efficient pathways not only benefit from lower tuition and fees but also reduce the risk of accumulating excessive debt. Evaluating program options that balance quality education with manageable costs is crucial for sustainable financial planning.

Moreover, programs designed with affordability in mind often provide accelerated pathways and fewer hidden fees, ensuring that resources are directed toward academic and career advancement. For example, specialized programs such as marketing management demonstrate how strategic degree choices can lead to meaningful career opportunities while minimizing overall financial strain.

How can students reduce the overall cost of applying to graduate school?

Graduate school applications can also be costly, but there are strategies to reduce the financial burden. Aside from the application fees for each program, students should consider other expenses like standardized test fees (GRE, GMAT), and application service fees (for centralized platforms). Below are some practical tips to manage and reduce these costs:

Fee Waivers for Graduate Applications: Many graduate programs offer application fee waivers based on financial need or specific circumstances. Students should research waiver policies on school websites or reach out to the admissions office directly to request one.
Apply to Fee-Free Programs: Some universities or specific graduate programs waive application fees altogether, particularly those that are working to increase accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds. Keep an eye out for schools that have this option.
Test-Optional Programs: Many graduate programs, particularly in fields like business, education, and the humanities, have adopted test-optional policies, meaning students may not need to pay for the GRE or other entrance exams. Research whether the programs you're interested in have this policy.
Online Graduate Degrees: Pursuing an cheapest master’s degree online can significantly cut down on costs, as many online programs have lower tuition rates and sometimes offer lower application fees.
Consolidating Applications: Use application services like SOPHAS or ApplyYourself, which allow students to submit one set of materials to multiple schools. These platforms often offer discounts on multiple applications.

By taking advantage of these options, students can minimize the financial strain of graduate school applications and focus more on finding the program that best fits their career and educational goals.

Can Community Colleges Offer a More Affordable Educational Path?

Community colleges present an effective strategy for reducing overall education expenses by offering lower application fees and more flexible credit transfer options. By beginning your academic journey at a community college, you can minimize upfront costs while building a solid academic foundation. Many institutions also provide accelerated programs that lead directly to degree completion, such as the easiest associate's degree, which can streamline your pathway to a four-year qualification without incurring steep initial costs.

How can accelerated degree programs lower overall education expenses?

Accelerated degree programs offer a streamlined educational pathway that can reduce both time-to-degree and overall costs. By condensing curricula into a shorter timeframe, these programs can lower tuition fees, administrative expenses, and the opportunity costs associated with extended study periods. Students benefit from quicker transitions into the workforce and enhanced returns on their educational investments. For additional details on efficient options in higher education, explore our guide on fast track degree programs.

Are fast associates degree online programs a cost-effective option?

Accelerated online associate degree programs present a cost-effective pathway by compressing the curriculum and reducing both tuition expenses and the time required to start a career. These programs eliminate typical delays associated with traditional education models, thereby cutting down costs related to extended enrollment and administrative overheads. Exploring options such as fast associates degree online can provide students with a streamlined route to valuable credentials while preserving financial resources for future academic or professional investments.

Do high-paying bachelor's degrees justify the initial cost of college applications?

Evaluating education expenses alongside long-term earnings reveals that selecting a degree with strong market demand can transform early application costs into a strategic investment. Data shows that programs leading to robust salary prospects help offset initial fees and tuition expenses over time. For detailed insights into lucrative career paths, review the best bachelor degrees to make money. This approach encourages prospective students to align their application investments with potential financial returns, paving the way for sustainable career growth and long-term fiscal responsibility.

The Cost of College Application: Your Access to Opportunity

Aside from tuition and other college fees, students also have to allot money for college applications. As discussed in this article, due diligence is important in the college application process, the more you know, the more informed your decisions will be. Computing the overall cost of college application entails determining the application fee for each college, the testing fees if SAT or ACT is required, and other auxiliary fees.

Rather than merely asking how much do college applications cost, think of the long-term value that you can get from investing time and money in a school that fits your plans and interests. Always strive to make informed decisions to get the return that would be worth your investment.

Key Insights

High Cost of College Applications: The average college application fee in the U.S. is $50, with elite schools charging higher rates, adding to the overall expense of pursuing higher education.
Additional Testing Fees: Apart from application fees, students often incur costs for standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams, which can add significantly to the total expense of college applications.
Application Fee Waivers: Many colleges offer fee waivers for students who demonstrate financial need, helping to reduce the cost burden of applications.
Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic led to a temporary suspension of SAT and ACT testing requirements for college admissions, which reduced application costs for many students.
Strategies to Save on Application Costs: Students can save on application fees by applying to colleges that do not charge fees, utilizing fee waivers, completing applications online, and creating a balanced list of target schools.
Regional Variation in Fees: Application fees vary widely across institutions, with some schools charging over $100 while others charge less than $35.
Importance of Due Diligence: Thorough research and planning can help students manage and potentially reduce the costs associated with college applications, ensuring they apply to schools that are a good fit academically and financially.

FAQ

What is the average cost of a college application fee in the U.S.? The average college application fee in the U.S. is about $50. However, elite schools and some universities charge higher fees, which can exceed $100.
Why do colleges charge application fees? Application fees help cover the costs of processing applications, which include screening, verifying, and evaluating each submission. These fees also support the maintenance and improvement of the application portals and other administrative costs.
Are there ways to reduce or avoid paying college application fees? Yes, students can reduce or avoid paying application fees by applying to schools that do not charge a fee, using application fee waivers available through organizations like NACAC or the College Board, and checking for colleges that have eliminated application fees for financial hardship cases.
What additional costs should I consider when applying to college? Besides application fees, students should consider the costs of standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. There may also be fees for additional services such as late registration, test center changes, and score reporting.
How did COVID-19 affect college application processes and costs? During the pandemic, many colleges adopted test-optional policies, eliminating the requirement for SAT and ACT scores, which reduced application costs. Some schools have continued this policy beyond the pandemic, further reducing costs for applicants.
Can applying online reduce the cost of college applications? Yes, some colleges offer lower application fees for online applications as it reduces their administrative costs. Completing applications online can be a cost-effective option for students.
How can I create a balanced college application list to manage costs? To create a balanced list, identify likely, target, and reach schools based on your academic profile. Apply primarily to target schools, with a few likely and reach schools to maximize your chances of acceptance while managing application costs effectively.
What role do application fee waivers play in the college application process? Application fee waivers are crucial for students who demonstrate financial need. They help reduce the financial barrier to applying to multiple colleges, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue higher education regardless of their economic background.

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