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- 5 min
- Published: 18 November 2025
- Updated: 17 November 2025
While a university application fee is generally mandatory for most US universities, some allow application fee waivers for international students. A few examples include Yale University, Harvard University, and Northeastern University, among many others. The waivers are typically offered to Indian students from low-income backgrounds or based on other factors, such as the university’s decision to increase accessibility. It is always recommended to review the university's specific waiver policies before applying for one. This blog lists the most popular universities in the USA that offer admission to Indian students without an application fee. It also details why these universities waive the application fee and why you should choose them.
Why Choose Universities Without Application Fees in the USA?
One of the top reasons for applying to universities in the USA without an application fee is that it allows students to apply to multiple universities without incurring significant costs. This means that not only do they facilitate financial savings, but universities in the USA with no application fee also boost your chances of acceptance.
Some of the other key reasons to apply to no application fee universities in the USA for international students are as follows:
Improved student reach: By waiving the application fee, US universities enable students to apply to multiple institutions and a wider range of study programs. This, in turn, boosts their chances of acceptance at a university.
Improved savings for students: Eliminating the application fee can result in substantial savings for international students. Generally, one application may cost around USD 50 to USD 100, and applying to multiple universities is quite expensive.
Improved student inclusivity: No-application-fee universities enable students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to apply to high-quality learning institutions, thereby fostering diversity and inclusivity on their campuses.
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Why Do Some USA Universities Waive Application Fees?
One of the key reasons why US universities waive the application fees for international students is to attract a larger pool of applicants and improve access to higher education for economically weaker sections of society.
Here are some more reasons why some US study institutions choose to waive application fees:
Encourage more applications: By waiving the application fee, US universities encourage a greater number of international applicants to consider these institutions for admission.
Substantial scholarship offers: US universities that eliminate the application fee are often able to provide strong scholarship opportunities to international students.
Improve accessibility and inclusivity: By removing application fees, universities in the USA make it simpler for students from lower-income backgrounds to apply to top institutions. This promotes easy accessibility and also facilitates inclusivity for students from remote areas.
List of Top US Universities Without Application Fee (2026)
There are many prestigious universities in the USA with no application fee for international students. Some of the top names include Harvard University, Tulane University, and Yale University, among others. These institutions offer application fee waivers to international students, enabling them easy access to top learning.
The table below lists some of the popular universities with no application fee in the USA:
University | QS World University Ranking 2026 |
5 | |
21 | |
=294 | |
Northeastern University | 384 |
=458 | |
=597 | |
761-770 | |
851-900 | |
901-950 | |
951-1000 |
Related Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/world-university-rankings?page=3&countries=us
Eligibility Criteria for Applying to Universities Without Application Fees
To prove eligibility for no-application-fee universities in the USA, students must demonstrate genuine financial need, achieve desirable scores on English proficiency tests, and possess a strong academic background. The following are the eligibility criteria to apply to universities with no application fee:
Proof of financial difficulty
Required scores in standardised tests such as GRE/Hah
Proof of a desirable score in English proficiency tests, such as IELTS
A strong academic record
A valid passport
Any other documents, as required
How to Apply to Universities in the USA Without an Application Fee?
Researching for universities that do not charge an application fee is the first step in applying for US institutions for free. Additionally, make sure to leverage fee waivers offered on standardised application platforms, such as the Coalition App or the Common App.
Here are some more ways to apply to free US universities:
Use the fee waiver codes provided in ACT/SAT programs, especially if you are from a low-income background. You can utilise these codes to apply for free to several participating universities.
You can contact the Admissions Office of the university that you wish to apply to, explain your financial background, and request a waiver.
Be on the lookout for exceptional opportunities such as college events and fairs, where fee waiver codes are offered.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying to No Application Fee Universities
One of the key points to remember when applying to universities in the USA without an application fee is to thoroughly research and verify the university's reputation before submitting your application. This is because some institutions may not offer strong financial or academic support to students. Hence, it is always best to check and verify your options.
Here are some points to note when applying for no-application-fee universities in the USA:
Thoroughly research the quality of teaching and reputation of the university in the higher education sector.
Understand the university's application process thoroughly. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may result in rejection of your application for a waiver.
Look for hidden costs. Some institutions may charge hidden fees (such as extra costs for test score reports, transcripts, or other documents) despite the application being free.
Check the university’s specific policies, if any, on fee waivers offered only to early applications, for instance.
How IDP Helps You to Apply to USA Universities Without Application Fees
Applying to US universities that do not charge an application fee can be a massive boon for international students. It has several advantages, as discussed in this blog. The best news is that you do not have to figure out the application process alone. Experts like IDP Education can help you identify the best US universities offering fee waivers and guide you through every stage of the application process. Our experts are well-versed in the rules and regulations of university applications, ensuring that your application is error-free and, in turn, boosting your chances of acceptance.
FAQs on Universities in the USA Without Application Fee for Indian Students
1. Is it worth studying Engineering in Australia for Indian students?
Absolutely! Australian universities offering Engineering programs rank highly on world university ranking systems, such as QS, and offer brilliant career opportunities, as well as the best academic programs, comparable to those of universities worldwide.
2. Which Australian course has better global recognition today?
Engineering programs pursued in Australia generally have better and more direct recognition globally due to the standardised accreditation processes of these programs.
3. Which degree offers better scholarships in Australia for students?
It is challenging to determine which of the two degree programs (Engineering or Business) in Australia offers better scholarship options for international students. The availability of a scholarship program generally depends on other factors, such as the discretion of the university offering it, government initiatives (in the case of government-funded scholarships), and the academic merit of the student applying.
4. Which Australian cities are the best for Engineering and Business Studies?
Sydney and Melbourne are typically considered the top cities for pursuing both Engineering and Business Studies courses in Australia. These cities are home to some of the best-known universities offering these two disciplines.
5. Which degree helps you adapt better to the Australian work culture?
Both Engineering and Business courses in Australia offer excellent employment prospects to graduates. Your ability to adapt to the work culture may depend on your personal skills and strengths, and may vary from one graduate to another.
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