Colleges and Universities with No Application Fees: A Guide to Saving Money on Your Higher Education Journey
Studying overseas is a goal for many international students, but the exorbitant application fees can be a big obstacle. Finding a method to reduce expenses can have a significant impact, as tuition fees are already high, particularly in disciplines like business, law, computer science, and engineering.
In this post, I’ve compiled a list of universities and colleges that do not require application fees for international students. These changes can help make your study abroad goals a little more realistic, whether you’re pursuing a famous university or are just considering your alternatives.
Let’s get started and find out how to apply to these foreign universities without having to worry about application fees!
What Is a College Application Fee Waiver?
Application fees are charges that colleges and universities require to help fund the administrative expenses of processing each application. It also restricts the pool of candidates to those who are serious about attending the college.
However, the cost of college applications is a significant barrier to education for many people. Find out which schools do not require application cost fees
Top 11 Colleges and Universities in the USA With No Application Fees
For international students who wish to receive a top-notch education, the USA is among the greatest places to study. The USA is an academically oriented country with more than 6,000 colleges and universities. Therefore, the USA ought to be a wonderful choice for you if you’re searching for a university that doesn’t charge application costs.
The list of US universities that do not charge an application fee for international graduate students is provided below.
#1. University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is not charging an application fee for any of its graduate programs. Chemistry, Business Administration, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, English, Mathematics, Journalism, and Mass Communications are a few of the graduate programs that the University of South Carolina offers.
International students can apply for a variety of awards and scholarships. All international students can submit an unofficial transcript to the school for consideration for admission.
Read Also: USC National Merit Scholarship: Benefits and How to Qualify
#2. Lasell University
Lasell University offers its graduate programs free of application fees. For international graduates, they provide application fee waivers and the opportunity to study in the United States without paying an application fee. Lasell University offers graduate programs in a variety of fields, including business administration, marketing, criminal justice, human resources, creative writing, and communications. International applicants can submit unofficial transcripts for admission assessment at the school.
#3. Wayne State University
Wayne State University is presently offering all of its graduate programs for the winter, spring/summer, and fall of 2025 without collecting any application fees. Communication, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, English, Chemistry, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and so on are among the graduate programs that Wayne State University offers.
International students can apply for several assistantships and scholarships. Additionally, international applicants can submit unofficial transcripts for admission assessment at the school.
#4. University of Bridgeport
The University of Bridgeport graduate programs are free of application costs. For international graduates, they provide application fee waivers and the opportunity to study in the United States without paying an application fee. The University of Bridgeport offers graduate degrees in a variety of fields, including biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, business administration, computer science and engineering, mechanical engineering, public health, and more.
International students can apply for a number of assistantships and scholarships. Additionally, international applicants can submit unofficial transcripts for admission assessment at the school. Admission for the autumn semester is due on July 15, 2025.
#5. Loyola University Chicago
For all of its graduate programs, Loyola University Chicago does not charge an application fee. For international graduates, they provide application fee waivers and the opportunity to study in the United States without paying an application fee.
Nursing, law and political science, biochemistry, mathematics, data science, and English are among the graduate programs that Loyola University Chicago offers. International students can apply for a variety of assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships.
Read Also: Nursing Scholarships for International Students
#6. Eastern New Mexico University
All of Eastern New Mexico University’s graduate programs are free of application costs. For international graduates, they provide application fee waivers and the opportunity to study in the United States without paying an application fee. Business administration, English, educational administration, chemistry, communication, and sports administration are among the graduate programs that Eastern New Mexico University offers. International students can apply for a variety of assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships.
Note that all international students are required by the institution to provide official transcript evaluation findings from a qualified, independent agency.
#7. Yale University
Founded in 1701, Yale University is an institution committed to advancing its influence and disseminating knowledge via science, innovation, and culture. Furthermore, the university offers instruction to both domestic and international students. Through its programs, it seeks to improve human situations globally and foster cultural understanding to engage the rest of the world.
Therefore, you should apply to Yale University right now if you’re searching for a university that doesn’t charge application costs.
#8. University of California, San Diego
One institution that offers a collaborative setting where intelligent minds can make an impact is the University of California. The institution also seeks to change the academic landscape through public service and the dissemination of knowledge and creativity.
Additionally, there is no application fee for their process. Applying to the University of California is therefore the obvious choice for overseas students who want to focus their energy on economic growth and innovation.
Read Also: Top 20 Online Schools That Give Refund Checks and Free Laptops in 2025
#9. University of Illinois, Chicago
The University of California was established in 1960 as a public school. Among the Best Colleges in the United States, the university comes in at number 34. The university also offers a setting that promotes tolerance and cultural acceptance. You can apply to this school if you do not want to pay application fees.
#10. Colorado State University:
With its sparkling winter lights, summer concerts, and a positive campus community full of clubs and cutting-edge research and facilities, Colorado State University offers a lively setting.
Benefits at this university include education, sustainability, community building, and improving the planet. As a result, it will give international students the chance to become part of a community that will elevate their academic experience. Note that you do not need to pay application fees to gain admission here.
#11. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona is an institution with a strong desire to achieve great things and they do not charge application fees. This is a result of their commitment to transforming students’ lives by equipping them with the necessary abilities to meet the difficulties of the real world. You should apply to participate in their programs right away because of their stunning landscapes and fantastic academic enrollment.
Read Also: Top 11 Fastest PsyD Online Programs in 2025: Earn Your Doctorate in Less Time
List Of Online And Hybrid Universities That Don’t Charge Application Fees
#1. Elmhurst University
Elmhurst University is a private university in Illinois that was founded in 1871. The university provides liberal arts and applied science undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Elmhurst offers more than 70 majors, 15 master’s-level programs, several certificate programs, and a few degree completion programs for adult learners.
Additionally, the institution provides online programs and courses in computer technology, psychology, and nursing.
Among the programs offered online are:
- Online Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Science in Data Science
- Applied Psychology Degree Completion Program (Hybrid)
- Graduate Certificate in Data Science
#2. Lindsey Wilson College
Lindsey Wilson College was established in Kentucky in 1903 and provides undergraduate and graduate online courses. Among other important fields, Lindsey Wilson offers associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs on campus in business administration, media studies, education, nursing, and psychology.
Among the programs offered online are:
- Business Administration (Undergraduate and Graduate)
- Criminal Justice (Undergraduate)
- Master of Education in Counseling
#3. Norwich University
Established in 1819, Norwich University provides online undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of subject areas through its College of Graduate and Continuing Studies. Norwich also claims to have over 25 years of expertise teaching online.
Among the programs offered online are:
- Business Administration
- Computer Science and Information Systems
- Criminal Justice
- Nursing
- Cybersecurity
- International Relations
- Public Health
#4. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University is a Christian university that was founded in Arizona in 1949. The institution provides certificate, bridging, and post-masters programs in addition to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs. The wide range of academic programs offered, such as business, teaching, nursing, engineering, and technology, are open to interested candidates. Depending on the course and level, the university offers many online undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Among the programs offered online are:
- Advertising and Graphic Design (Undergraduate)
- Christian Studies (Undergraduate)
- Accounting (Undergraduate)
- Behavioral Health Science (Undergraduate)
- Communication (Undergraduate and Graduate)
- Business Administration (Graduate)
- Nursing (Undergraduate and Graduate)
#5. Baker University
Baker University is a private university with more than 50 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs that was founded in Kansas in 1858. For its degree programs, the university also offers hybrid and online options; some of these were created with faster pacing to accommodate students with personal and professional commitments.
Among the programs offered online are:
- Business Administration (Undergraduate and Graduate)
- Criminal Justice (Undergraduate)
- Psychology (Undergraduate)
- Nursing (Undergraduate and Graduate)
- Education (Graduate)
Read Also: Cheap or Free Masters Programs: How to Earn a Graduate Degree Without Breaking the Bank
Colleges And Universities In Europe That Do Not Require Applications Fees
In general, several European institutions charge application fees but don’t worry. You can save money by applying to these universities in Europe without charging an application fee:
#1. RWTH Aachen in Germany
RWTH Aachen, a prominent engineering university in Germany, is one of the best universities in Europe that doesn’t charge an application fee. It boasts a sizable and varied student body and several connections and collaborations with other academic institutions and businesses. It is recognized among the top 100 universities in the world by Times Higher Education and provides several STEM Master’s programs taught in English.
#2. ParisTech, France
ParisTech is the next university on this list of European universities that do not charge an application fee to international students. It is comparable to the UK’s Oxford and Cambridge systems, where each college has a distinct personality and standing. Graduates of ParisTech are respected throughout France and have the option to study anywhere, primarily in or close to Paris.
#3. Ghent University in Belgium
Ghent University is one of the best European universities that does not require application fees. Located in Flanders, Belgium, they are a major 100 college with more than 45,000 students and 15,000 employees, making them possibly the largest college in the Dutch-speaking area.
#4. TU Munich in Germany
As one of the best universities in Europe, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) emphasizes excellence in research and teaching, and multidisciplinary education, of bright young scientists. The college also establishes strong ties with institutions and rational underpinnings around the globe.
Furthermore, TUM consistently ranks among the top European universities in international rankings.
#5. The University of Vienna in Austria
The University of Vienna is the largest and most diverse educational institution in Austria, with more than 40 colleges offering teaching and preparation programs. The capital of Austria has long been regarded as the most livable city in the world and is home to some of the most popular student cities worldwide. With 6,900 students, the University of Vienna is also the largest research and educational institution in Austria.
Read Also: How Much Does a Travel Nurse Make in America, Europe, and Asia
Universities In Canada That Do Not Require Application Fees
#1. Tyndale University:
Numerous undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs are available at Toronto’s Tyndale University. Graduates from the university are employed in public, private, and nonprofit institutions across the globe.
#2. Quest University:
Quest University is a school that uses a new curriculum and an inventive philosophy to reimagine undergraduate arts and sciences. Additionally, they support a teaching methodology that can assist you in getting ready for any career or aspirations you may have. The surroundings also offer intellectual challenges that make students enthusiastic about their studies.
#3. Northeastern University Toronto
Northeastern’s Graduate School of Engineering, a highly esteemed and selective research university, provides a state-of-the-art curriculum that combines challenging coursework with practical experience, like our well-known cooperative education program.
All new students applying to any of their Master of Science or Graduate Certificate programs for the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 application terms are exempt from paying the application fee.
Read Also: Scholarships Opportunities in Canada
How International Students Can Apply For Universities In The USA Without Application Fee
The following are the documents that international graduate students may submit when applying to all US universities that do not charge an application fee.
#1. Passport:
Apply for an international student travel passport in advance because some of the American universities on the above list that do not charge an application fee may need one during the application process.
#2. SOP:
Depending on what your preferred graduate school calls it, you must write and submit a statement of purpose or goal statement in order for your application to be considered complete for American universities that do not charge an application fee for overseas students.
#3. Transcripts:
Before deciding whether to admit you, some US colleges that don’t charge an application fee merely need your unofficial transcripts for entrance review, while others would rather have your transcripts sent straight to their graduate admissions office.
#4. Certificates:
Before deciding whether to admit you, some US colleges that don’t charge an application fee for international students will ask to see a scanned copy of all of your post-secondary diplomas, but most won’t.
#5. Writing Sample:
Before evaluating your application, some graduate programs at American colleges that do not charge an application fee may ask for a writing sample; in other situations, your undergraduate or graduate thesis may be sufficient.
#6. English Test Scores:
A TOEFL score of 550+, a PTE score of 54+, an IELTS score of 6.5+, and a Duolingo score of 110+ are all required for a number of graduate programs.
#7. CV/Resume:
The majority of graduate programs at US colleges that do not charge overseas students an application fee require them to submit a CV or resume detailing their academic and professional backgrounds.
#8. GRE/GMAT Standardized Tests:
A score of 320 or higher is seen as an excellent score by certain graduate programs that still need the GRE, with verbal scores of 150+, quantitative scores of 150+, and analytical writing scores of 4+. Most colleges consider a GMAT score of 550 or higher to be good.
#9. Letters of Recommendation:
Most graduate programs at American colleges that do not charge an application fee typically require three letters of recommendation; others only require one or two.
Frequently Asked Questions About College Application Fee Waivers
Which universities in the UK don’t charge an application fee?
The University of Glasgow, University of Warwick, Leeds University, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and University College London are a few of the top UK universities that do not charge an application fee.
Is there an application fee for all universities?
It is rather common for institutions all around the world to charge a nominal processing fee for applications. Foreign universities undoubtedly follow suit. Nonetheless, a number of universities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and other nations are included in the list of nations offering free international education.
Which American universities don’t charge an application fee?
Bryn Mawr College, Trinity University, Rhodes College, Carleton College, and Colby College are among the US universities that provide free application fees. In addition to these, over 50 US universities still do not charge international applicants an application fee.
Which US institutions are the most affordable?
Among the most reasonably priced universities in the United States for overseas students are Monroe College in New York, Western Michigan University, Minnesota State University in Mankato, Indiana University in South Bend, California State University in Long Beach, Southeast Missouri State University, and Truman State University in Missouri.
Which Canadian universities don’t charge international students an application fee?
Universities in Canada that eliminate application fees include Quest University, Tyndale University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Alberta.
Related Articles:
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in 2025
Pursue Your MBA Studies in the USA: Harvard University MBA Scholarship 2025-2026
American Association of University Women (AAUW) Career Development Grants
Discover more from Examsabi
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
1 thought on “Colleges and Universities with No Application Fees: A Guide to Saving Money on Your Higher Education Journey”