How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College for 2025?

by Alex Hillsberg , MA

Student Finance & Loan Expert

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The college application process can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming due to the process you would need to go through. One factor is the cost. Beyond the application fees, applying to college can involve several unexpected costs including standardized tests. Sending your official transcripts usually comes with a small fee from your high school as well and test prep materials can range from free resources to expensive courses. This guide will explore how much it cost to apply to college, breaking down the different expenses. It will also offer tips on how to save money throughout the process. 

Key things you should know about college application costs

• While application fees are a major cost, there are hidden expenses like test registration, transcripts, test prep, and potentially college visits.
• The total cost depends on factors like how many schools you apply to.
•  Application fee waivers, free test prep resources, and electronic transcript submission can help keep your costs down.

Table of Contents

1. How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College for 2025?
2. Do application costs vary by state or region?
3. Are there any cost advantages to applying to in-state schools?
4. Are there any colleges with free applications?
5. What are additional application costs in college?
6. What are some ways to save money in college education?
7. What types of financial aid can be used to apply for college
8. What student loans are available to apply for college?
9. Why Timing Matters When Applying for College
10. What alternative education options should I explore for enhanced career opportunities?
11. How can I assess the long-term value of my college application investments?
12. What Common Pitfalls Should I Avoid When Budgeting for College Applications?
13. What are some strategies for prioritizing college applications?
14. What factors should I consider beyond application fees?
15. Can Online Tools Help Me Compare and Select the Most Suitable Student Loan Options?
16. How Can I Maximize Fee Waivers and Scholarships to Offset Application Costs?
17. How to Identify the Right Financing Options for College Applications
18. How Can I Secure Financing for Unforeseen Application Expenses?
19. How Can I Evaluate the Long-Term Return on My College Application Investments?
20. What Are the Key Differences Between Federal and Private Student Loans?
21. How Can I Align My Application Expenses With Expected Career Earnings?
22. Other Things You Should Know About How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College

Here is what students have to say about the costs to applying to college

"Applying to so many colleges felt like a gamble, but thanks to the application fee waivers I received, I could explore a wider range of options. It opened doors to fantastic online programs I wouldn't have considered otherwise. Now, I'm getting a top-notch education from a prestigious university, all from the comfort of my own home. The flexibility of online learning lets me balance studies with my part-time job, and I'm so grateful for this unexpected opportunity." - Rebecca

"The college application process can be daunting, especially with all the fees. Thankfully, getting application fees waived took a huge weight off my shoulders. It allowed me to focus on crafting strong essays and choosing schools that aligned with my goals. The online application process was also a lifesaver, saving me tons of time and stress. Now, I'm excited to embark on this online learning journey and build a brighter future for myself." - Ethan

"College applications can feel impersonal, just filling out forms and sending them off. But with the money saved from waived fees, I could invest in online college visits. Seeing the virtual tours and interacting with current students online gave me a real sense of the college communities. It helped me find the perfect online program with a vibrant student life, even though I won't be physically on campus. I can't wait to connect with my classmates and learn together in this virtual environment." - Nerissa

How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College for 2025?

One of the main expenses of how much it cost to apply to college is the application fee itself. Standardized testing adds another layer of cost. The registration cost alone for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) would cost $68 while the American College Test (ACT) would cost around $49 for its registration fee. On top of that, there are optional expenses like test prep materials ranging from $100 to well over $1,000, or essay editing services that can cost $50-$200 per hour.  The average cost to apply to college can be much higher than just application fees, potentially exceeding $1,000 in some cases.

What is the average application fee for colleges?

Students can expect application fees to cost from $40 to $90 per college. College visits for campus tours can add travel and accommodation costs to the mix. The good news is application fee waivers based on financial need or academic merit are often available to lessen how much it cost to apply to college. You can look for information on college websites or contact admissions offices.

Do application costs vary by state or region?

There is no clear trend of how much it cost to apply to college where it varies significantly by state or region but the biggest factor affecting application fees is whether the college is public or private. Public colleges within a state typically have lower application fees for in-state residents compared to out-of-state applicants. Private colleges, on the other hand, usually have a standard application fee regardless of location. Ultimately, each college sets its own application fees. There may not be a regional pattern, and it is best to check the specific college's website for their application fee.

Are there any cost advantages to applying to in-state schools?

There can be significant cost advantages to applying to in-state schools compared to out-of-state schools. Public colleges within a state typically charge much lower application fees for in-state residents compared to out-of-state applicants. The most significant cost advantage comes from in-state tuition. Public colleges are heavily subsidized by the state government, making tuition significantly cheaper for residents. It is still better to verify does community college cost money or not by looking through community or public college websites. How much it cost to apply to college will depend on where you want to enroll so it is always wise to compare the application fees and tuition costs for both in-state and out-of-state schools you are considering.

Are there any colleges with free applications?

Yes, there are a growing number of colleges that are waiving application fees to make the application process more accessible for students which can lower how much it cost to apply to college. Many colleges with free applications will clearly advertise this fact on their admissions webpage. These colleges can range from small liberal arts colleges to large public universities. It is important to consider other factors like academic programs, campus life, and financial aid options when making your decision. However, even with a waived application fee, there may be other costs associated with applying.

Historical tuition rates by college have increased with the average cost of college tuition reaching $32,769 in 2020. It has increased by 124.2% over the last 20 years for an average annual increase of 6.2%.

What are additional application costs in college?

Beyond the application fees themselves, there are several additional costs that can add up when applying to college. Here is a breakdown of how much it cost to apply to college, including additional costs:

• Standardized Testing: While an increasing number of colleges are becoming test-optional, many students still choose to take the SAT or ACT to strengthen their application. 
• Transcript Fees: Most high schools charge a small fee, usually around $5 per transcript, to send your official transcripts to colleges. You can potentially save money by using applications that allow electronic transcript submission to multiple schools at once.
• Test Prep Materials: While there are free test prep resources available online and from libraries, some students choose to invest in prep courses, books, or online programs. These resources can range in price from around $100 to $1,000 or more.
• College Essay Editing: If you are looking for help with your college essays, you can hire a college essay editor or tutor. This can be a great way to improve your writing and ensure your essays are polished and error-free. However, it can also be an expensive option, with rates typically ranging from $50 to $200 per hour.

• College Visit Costs: While not essential, visiting colleges can be a great way to get a feel for the campus and see if it is a good fit for you. However, travel and accommodation costs can add up to how much it cost to apply to college, especially if you are considering schools that are located far away from home.

This table from the National Association for College Admission Counseling presents estimated costs. Actual costs can vary depending on specific circumstances.

What are some ways to save money in college education?

Planning for college can be expensive, but there are definitely ways to save money throughout your education. You can begin saving before college or while in college to ensure you have enough budget for your education. 

• Scholarships and Grants: You can apply for scholarships and grants offered by federal and state governments, colleges and universities, and private organizations. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a must-fill to qualify for federal grants and student loans.
• 529 Plans: These are tax-advantaged investment accounts designed specifically for college savings and with how much it cost to apply to college. Any earnings from the plan used for qualified education expenses are typically free from federal and state taxes.
• Be Budget-Savvy: You can also create a budget to track your income and expenses. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back. There are many budgeting apps and resources available to help you get started.
• Textbook Savings: Textbooks can be a huge expense, so it is important to look for ways to save by buying used books, renting textbooks, or borrowing them from the library. You can also check online retailers for cheaper prices.
• Living Arrangements: You can consider living off-campus in a shared apartment or house to save on rent compared to dorms. If you do live on campus, you can explore options with roommates.

• Part-Time Job: Working part-time can help you earn extra money to cover expenses. It can be helpful to look for jobs on campus or in your field of study to gain valuable experience.

What types of financial aid can be used to apply for college

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is crucial for applying for most federal grants, work-study programs, and even some state aid. It is generally recommended to maximize grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to know how to get mba paid for or any of your desired programs paid for.

• Grants: These are awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or other factors. Federal grants, such as Pell Grants, are a great place to start. States and colleges might also offer their own grants to lessen how much it cost to apply to college.
• Scholarships: These are similar to grants but can be awarded for a wider range of reasons, like academic achievement, community service, specific majors, or even talents. Scholarships can come from colleges, private organizations, businesses, and even individuals.
• Federal Work-Study: This program allows you to work part-time to earn money to help pay for college expenses. You will need to apply for this through the FAFSA and it helps you develop valuable work experience while studying.
• Federal Student Loans: These typically offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. There are various federal loan programs with different eligibility requirements and interest rates.

• Private Student Loans: These can be used to cover any remaining costs after other financial aid options have been applied. However, they often have higher interest rates and stricter repayment terms.

What student loans are available to apply for college?

Student loans are generally divided into two categories: federal student loans and private student loans. Private loans can be used to cover any remaining college costs after federal financial aid, grants, and scholarships have been applied. However, they typically come with higher interest rates and stricter repayment terms. 

• Direct Subsidized Loans: These are need-based loans with the government covering the interest that accrues while you are in school at least half-time, during grace periods, and during deferment periods.
• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Unlike subsidized loans, these are not based on financial need. You are responsible for paying the interest on unsubsidized loans from the time they are disbursed throughout the entire repayment period.
• Direct PLUS Loans: These are for parents of undergraduate students and graduate/professional students to help cover the cost of attendance after other financial aid has been applied. Unlike the first two, PLUS loans are credit-checked.

Why Timing Matters When Applying for College

When approaching your college applications, understanding the timing of each component can significantly impact your chances of success and financial preparedness. Submitting your applications early not only shows enthusiasm but can also give you enough time to rectify technical issues, supplement applications with updated documents, or apply for fee waivers where applicable. Midway through the application process, you should also focus on your financial aid and loan arrangements.

For instance, if private student loans become necessary after you’ve exhausted federal loan and grant opportunities, it’s important to factor in the timeline for approval and disbursement. How long does it take to get approved for a private student loan? Knowing the answer can help you plan better and ensure that funds are available when you need them. Early planning and financial diligence often offer a significant advantage, relieving stress as you proceed through the admissions and enrollment phases.

Timing extends beyond just application submissions and financial preparation. Consider creating a comprehensive schedule that includes preparation for standardized tests, campus visits (physical or virtual), and scholarship deadlines. Such planning allows you to allocate your resources and energy effectively, enabling a smoother college application experience.

What alternative education options should I explore for enhanced career opportunities?

Evaluating non-traditional education pathways can offer cost-effective career advancement. Consider programs that emphasize hands-on skills, short-term training, and direct industry engagement. Comparing accreditation, program outcomes, and potential returns on investment may reveal options that better align with specific career goals. For instance, specialized vocational programs or online certifications can complement a traditional college education by providing immediate applicability in targeted fields. Research sources like trade school online to gain insights into robust training opportunities that emphasize practical skills required by today’s job market.

How can I assess the long-term value of my college application investments?

When evaluating application expenses, it is essential to analyze potential returns over time. This involves examining prospective career growth, job market trends, and the overall impact of educational investments. Consider opportunities that extend beyond immediate admission costs, such as advanced programs which may offer higher earning potential. For example, comparing undergraduate options with masters degrees that pay well can help clarify long-term benefits. A detailed cost-benefit assessment, integrating short-term budgeting with future career outcomes, allows for a strategic approach in optimizing educational investments.

What Common Pitfalls Should I Avoid When Budgeting for College Applications?

Overlooking minor fees that accumulate across multiple applications can lead to budget shortfalls. Failing to verify eligibility for fee waivers or emergency funds may result in unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. Ignoring supplemental costs—such as transcript shipping or document resubmission fees—can disrupt financial planning. Neglecting to compare the long-term return on educational investments may prevent you from identifying cost-effective alternatives, including vocational pathways like the best trade school jobs.

What are some strategies for prioritizing college applications?

It is important to approach college applications with a clear plan. For the entire process to be less overwhelming, you need to prioritize efficiently, and present your best self to each institution. You should remember that a well-rounded application goes beyond just grades and test scores; highlighting your unique experiences and passions can help you stand out from the crowd.

• College List Creation: You should think about what is important to you in a college, whether it is academics, size, location, or cost, and create a balanced list that includes "reach," "match," and "safety" schools. "Reach" schools are your top choices, even if they are challenging to get into. "Match" schools are colleges where your academic profile aligns well with their average student. "Safety" schools are colleges you are confident you will get accepted into. This mix ensures you have options with varying acceptance rates.
• Deadlines and Requirements: It is important to research application deadlines and requirements for each college on your list. Deadlines can vary significantly; prioritize applications with earlier deadlines to avoid last-minute stress.
• Organize Application Materials: You should gather all the required documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and essays well in advance. It can be helpful if you consider creating a digital folder for each college to store all relevant materials.

• Maintain a Healthy Pace: The application process can be time-consuming, so you should prioritize your well-being. It is healthy to schedule breaks, stay organized, and delegate tasks to avoid burnout.

What factors should I consider beyond application fees?

The best college for you will depend on your individual priorities and goals. You can consider creating a weighted list of factors that are most important to you or understand the budgeting for college students and use that to compare your options. Do not be afraid to visit colleges to get a feel for the campus environment and ask questions to current students and admissions representatives.

• Programs Offered: You should be aware if the college you want to apply to offer a strong program in your desired major or area of interest. You should also onsider factors like faculty expertise, course offerings, and program reputation.
• Academic Fit: You have to make sure that the academic rigor can challenge you appropriately by exploring class sizes, student-faculty ratios, and opportunities for research, internships, or independent study.
• Total Cost of Attendance: This includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, and personal expenses. You should also factor in scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages offered by each college.
• Location and Size: Aside from costs, you can look into factors like campus size, proximity to home, and access to cultural activities. Do you prefer a bustling urban environment, a quiet college town, or something in between? 
• Campus Services and Resources: You should know whether  the college offer the support services you might need, such as academic tutoring, career counseling, or mental health services. 

There is a significant increase in the number of students applying to college for the upcoming academic year. The Common Application data shows a 21% rise in applications received through March 1, 2023, compared to the same period in 2019-20.

Can Online Tools Help Me Compare and Select the Most Suitable Student Loan Options?

Leveraging online comparison tools can streamline your evaluation of various loan products by aggregating data on interest rates, repayment schedules, and associated fees. Advanced calculators and comparison platforms enable borrowers to model total borrowing costs and long-term financial impacts without relying solely on traditional lender disclosures. Additionally, these digital resources often incorporate user feedback and expert reviews, which can further inform your decision-making process. For instance, exploring insights from the best direct to consumer student loans can offer a clear, data-driven basis for selecting the most suitable financing solution.

How Can I Maximize Fee Waivers and Scholarships to Offset Application Costs?

When navigating application expenses, consider targeting fee waivers and scholarships as strategic tools to significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Begin by researching each institution’s specific waiver policies and deadlines to ensure that you meet eligibility requirements promptly. It is advisable to compile a list of both national and local scholarship opportunities that address application fees or emergency educational expenses. Additionally, verify if special programs exist for nontraditional students; for instance, several colleges for working adults offer tailored fee-reduction initiatives that complement broader financial assistance strategies. Proactively gathering this information from admissions websites or contacting financial aid offices can streamline the application process and safeguard your budget.

How to Identify the Right Financing Options for College Applications

Managing the financial aspect of applying to college is critical and extends beyond just understanding application fees. One often overlooked yet crucial consideration is exploring various financing methods that can support you during this phase. If you’ve already accounted for other application-related costs like test fees and travel expenses, identifying accessible funding sources for application fees can improve your budgeting.

For students who may not qualify for fee waivers or have limited savings, leveraging small student loans without cosigner requirements can be a practical solution. These loans cater specifically to students with no established credit or financial backing, thus providing an entry point for pursuing higher education without overwhelming financial stress. To learn more about potential options, visit small student loans without cosigner.

Additionally, consider combining scholarships or institutional grants. Many schools offer emergency funding or application-fee scholarships that can supplement your efforts. Prioritizing such resources can minimize out-of-pocket costs while still allowing you to maintain a diverse array of college applications.

As you evaluate financing options, carefully compare loan terms, repayment conditions, and interest rates to ensure you’re making the most informed choice. Balancing long-term financial responsibility with immediate application requirements is key for a smoother transition into higher education.

How Can I Secure Financing for Unforeseen Application Expenses?

When unexpected costs arise during the college application process, evaluate immediate funding options without compromising long-term financial stability. Consider emergency funds, targeted scholarships for application expenses, and short-term borrowing solutions if other savings fall short. Assess available credit methods carefully by comparing interest rates, repayment terms, and potential impacts on your credit score. For prompt financial support during critical moments, review last-minute student loans as a viable option, ensuring that you understand all associated conditions before proceeding.

How Can I Evaluate the Long-Term Return on My College Application Investments?

A strategic budget allocation for college applications should also consider the long-term educational and career benefits. Evaluate anticipated outcomes such as scholarship opportunities, superior program selections, and future earning potential while comparing immediate expenses like fee waivers and test costs. Integrating comprehensive research on program value with financial planning can provide a clearer picture of return on investment. For example, exploring options including affordable online master's programs may open pathways to advanced degrees that further enhance career growth and financial stability.

What Are the Key Differences Between Federal and Private Student Loans?

When evaluating financing options for covering college application expenses, it is essential to compare the distinct features of federal and private student loans. Federal loans typically offer fixed interest rates, flexible repayment options, and borrower protections that can ease long-term financial management. In contrast, private loans may present variable rates, less flexible repayment schedules, and often require a co-signer, which can have significant implications for your credit history. Notably, a key consideration within federal loans is understanding the differences between subsidized and unsubsidized borrowing. For detailed insights, review our article on unsubsidized loan vs subsidized student loan framework to determine the most appropriate option for your financial needs.

How Can I Align My Application Expenses With Expected Career Earnings?

When planning your college application investments, evaluate how your upfront expenses compare with the potential career income in your chosen field. Analyze whether the overall costs—ranging from application fees to ancillary expenses—are justified by the anticipated financial returns from your academic program. Utilize comprehensive data sources to compare projected post-graduate salaries with education-related expenditures. For instance, reviewing insights on What majors make the most money? can provide valuable benchmarks that help tailor your application strategy to secure a balanced long-term financial outlook.

Key Findings

• The average application fee for colleges is $40 to $90 per college, but prestigious institutions can charge even more.
• The registration cost for the SAT is $64.50 and the ACT is $49. Test prep materials can range from $100 to well over $1,000.
• In-state application fees can be lower by tens to hundreds of dollars compared to out-of-state applications.
• Most high schools charge a small fee, usually around $5 per transcript.
• The total cost to apply to college can exceed $1,000 in some cases, depending on the number of schools applied to.

Other Things You Should Know About How Much Does It Cost to Apply to College 

What is the best amount of colleges to apply to?

With how much it cost to apply to college, a good starting point is four to six colleges, especially if you have a clear idea of your favorites and limited resources. 7-10 colleges allow for a balanced list with some reach schools. If you are unsure of your top choices or have wider interests, 11-12 colleges might be suitable. You should remember that applying to colleges is about quality, not quantity. You should also focus on colleges you are genuinely interested in and that fit you well beyond academics.

What college costs the most to apply to?

Some of the schools with the highest application fees are renowned universities like Columbia University, Harvard University, and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The colleges with the highest application fees, are all charging at least $75. While application fees can be quite high at some elite U.S. universities, the total cost of attendance at those same schools is even more staggering, with several costing over $80,000 per year.

How many applications do most colleges get?

Highly selective institutions, like Ivy League universities or top-ranked public schools, tend to receive tens of thousands of applications annually especially with how many high school students in us. This can be anywhere from 50,000 to well over 100,000 applications for a single entering class. Less selective colleges or smaller institutions might receive applications in the thousands, ranging from a few thousand to perhaps 20,000 or so. It is important to remember that the number of applications does not directly translate to acceptance rates. Even colleges with a seemingly lower number of applications might have competitive admissions processes.

References:

1. Common Application. (2023). Deadline update: first-year application trends through March 1. Retrieved from: https://s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ca.research.publish/Deadline+Updates/DeadlineUpdate_030223.pdf
2. Dickler, J. (2023). The cost of applying to college: ‘Bare minimum,’ expect $1,200 on application fees, says expert. Retrieved from: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/04/cost-of-applying-to-college-fees-mount-for-students-casting-wide-net.html
3. Hanson, M. (2022). Average Cost of College by Year. Retrieved from: https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-college-by-year
4. National Center for Education Statistics. (2024).Price of Attending an Undergraduate Institution. Retrieved from:  https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cua
5. National Center for Education Statistics. (2023).Loans for Undergraduate Students and Debt for Bachelor’s Degree Recipients. Retrieved from: https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cub/undergrad-student-loans
6. Talbot, D. (2023). College Application Fees. Retrieved from: https://wordsrated.com/college-application-fees/