The SAT is a standardized test for college admissions in the United States. While the test is integral to the college application process, the registration fee can be a barrier for some students. Fortunately, the College Board offers eligible students fee reductions and financial aid. This article will explore SAT fee reductions and financial assistance, including steps to apply for a fee waiver.
Fee Reductions
The College Board offers fee reductions to eligible students who cannot afford the full registration fee. The fee reduction covers the cost of the SAT and includes up to four college application fee waivers. The fee reduction is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and U.S. permanent residents in 11th or 12th grade who meet specific income eligibility requirements.
To be eligible for the fee reduction, students must meet one of the following criteria:
- Enrolled in or eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families
- Family income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service
Students eligible for the fee reduction can receive two fee waivers in their junior year and two in their senior year. The fee waivers can waive the cost of the SAT or college applications.
Financial Aid
The College Board also offers financial aid to eligible students who cannot afford the full registration fee or need assistance with other costs associated with taking the SAT. The financial aid covers the cost of the SAT and includes up to four college application fee waivers. The financial assistance is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and U.S. permanent residents in 11th or 12th grade and meets specific income eligibility requirements.
To be eligible for financial aid, students must meet one of the following criteria:
- Enrolled in or eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Enrolled in a federal, state, or local program that aids students from low-income families
- Family income falls within the Income Eligibility Guidelines set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service
Students who are eligible for financial aid can receive two fee waivers in their junior year and two fee waivers in their senior year. The fee waivers can waive the cost of the SAT or college applications. In addition to the fee waivers, financial aid may also cover other costs associated with taking the SAT, such as test center fees, late registration fees, and score report fees.
Steps to Apply for a Fee Waiver
To apply for a fee waiver, students should follow these steps:
- Check eligibility: Students should check if they meet the fee reduction or financial aid eligibility requirements. Eligibility requirements can be found on the College Board website.
- Talk to a counselor: Students should talk to their school counselor or another school official to obtain a fee waiver form. The student and a school official must complete the fee waiver form.
- Complete the form: The fee waiver form requires information about the student’s household income, family size, and participation in National School Lunch Program programs. The student and a school official must sign the form.
- Submit the form: The completed fee waiver form should be submitted to the College Board along with the student’s SAT registration. The form can be submitted online or by mail.
- Wait for approval: The College Board will review the fee waiver form and determine if the student is eligible for the fee reduction or financial aid. If approved, the student will receive a confirmation email with instructions for SAT registration.
Conclusion
The SAT is an important standardized test for college admissions in the United States. However, the registration fee can be a barrier for some students. Fortunately, the College Board offers eligible students fee reductions and financial aid. The fee reduction covers the cost of the SAT and includes up to four college application fee waivers. The financial assistance covers the cost of the SAT and includes up to four college application fee waivers and other expenses associated with taking the SAT. To apply for a fee waiver, students should check eligibility, talk to a counselor, complete the form, submit the state, and wait for the approval. By taking advantage of fee reductions and financial aid, eligible students can successfully register for the SAT and prepare for college admissions.
