For many international students, the cost of applying to U.S. universities goes well beyond tuition—it includes application fees that can quickly add up. The good news? Many American universities and scholarship programs offer fee waivers, especially for students demonstrating financial need. These options help make higher education in the U.S. more affordable and accessible.
If you’re planning to apply in 2025, here’s a curated list of universities and scholarships that waive application fees and offer generous financial aid.
Why Apply to No-Fee Universities?
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Lower Financial Risk: Apply to more schools without worrying about application fees.
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Greater Accessibility: Especially helpful for students from low-income or underrepresented backgrounds.
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Robust Support: Many of these schools offer full or significant financial aid packages.
Top Scholarships & U.S. Universities Without Application Fees – 2025
1. Clark University – Global Scholars Program
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: Waived
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Funding: $20,000–$25,000 per year, plus need-based aid
2. Berea College
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: None
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Funding: Full tuition; part-time campus work required
3. Amherst College – Need-Based Aid
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: Waived for international applicants
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Funding: 100% of demonstrated financial need covered
4. Wellesley College (for Women)
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: Waived if applying for financial aid
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Funding: Full need-based aid available
5. Trinity College (Connecticut)
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: Waived upon request or via the Common App
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Funding: Merit and need-based financial aid available
6. Colby College
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: None
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Funding: Meets 100% of demonstrated need—no loans required
7. Illinois Wesleyan University – Merit Scholarships
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: Waived for international students
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Funding: $16,000–$30,000 annually
8. University of the People
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Level: Undergraduate & Graduate
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Application Fee: None (small exam fees apply)
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Funding: Scholarships available to cover exam costs
9. Ashesi University & MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
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Level: Undergraduate (U.S. university placements)
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Application Fee: Waived
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Funding: Full scholarships including tuition, travel, and living expenses
10. Minerva University
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Level: Undergraduate
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Application Fee: None
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Funding: Need-based aid available, up to full cost of attendance
Tips for Applying Without an Application Fee
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Use the Common App Fee Waiver: Many schools honor this for eligible students.
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Contact Admissions Offices: Politely ask for a fee waiver if it’s not clearly stated online.
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Apply Early: Some schools only offer waivers to early applicants.
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Seek Guidance: Organizations like EducationUSA can assist with fee waivers and strategic application advice.
Final Thoughts
Applying to U.S. universities doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By targeting institutions that waive application fees and offer substantial aid, you can expand your options without increasing your costs. With careful planning, early action, and the right resources, you can take the next step toward achieving your academic goals in the United States.