For international students wanting to study in the United States, navigating the application process can seem a little tricky and, to be honest, expensive when you have to pay all the application fees for each university. It makes sense for you to have a Plan B, Plan C and even a Plan D, but paying every time can discourage you and stop you from getting into the school of your dreams. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Some esteemed universities offer an encouraging start by waiving application fees for international applicants. This means that you can apply to as many universities as you want, which increases your chances of being accepted into one! We will tell you a bit more about some of the universities that have no application fee, but keep in mind that these are not limited to the ones we mention.
Before we dive into the schools that waive application fees, let’s get some definitions out of the way.
What is Common Application?
The Common Application, or Common App, is a college admission application where applicants can apply to member colleges and universities throughout the United States, as well as some international schools. It is an easy tool to use and allows students to apply to multiple schools at once. Not only does it make the application process easier, but also more accessible by lowering logistical and systemic barriers to college. The Common Application is accepted by over 1000 colleges and universities!
What is the Coalition Application?
Newer than the Common Application, the Coalition Application can be used to apply to colleges in simple steps. It was designed to help underrepresented groups and students, further lowering any systemic barriers to college. Not all colleges accept the Coalition Application. In fact, about 150 colleges and universities currently accept it, specifically those in the Coalition for Access, Affordability, and Success. It is a fantastic tool to explore if you’re thinking about applying to several schools, as it offers several features that make your life easier. The Coalition application offers a Locker where users can store documents relevant to their applications, a MyCoalition Counselor, and a Collaboration Space, where students can invite others to provide feedback on their applications.
Now, let’s see our motivating candidates…
University of Dayton.
Located in the birthplace of Aviation, Dayton, Ohio, and founded in 1850, the University of Dayton has a rich history spanning more than 170 years. According to U.S. News & World Report, UD is ranked as #133 out of 439 National Universities, making it a top tier school and a fantastic opportunity. This University does not only waive any application fees, but they also go above and beyond by making sure you understand the application process and it does not overwhelm you with its steps.
Applying to UD as an international student can be completed in four easy steps. First, students applying to undergrad studies can choose to apply directly through the University of Dayton Application or through the Common Application. Whatever platform the student chooses, there is no application fee! The second step is to send all official secondary transcripts. This means that aspiring international students must send transcripts of previously attended secondary schools, including dates of attendance, subjects, grades and proof of completion. Keep in mind that if English is not your previous school’s first language, any transcript not issued in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Third, if English is not your native language, as an international applicant you must submit proof of English proficiency. Whether you took the SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or DET, your score must be sent directly to UD from the testing center. If you do not have an English proficiency score, or do not meet the minimum score, you might be conditionally admitted to UD under the condition you attend their Intensive English Program full time and successfully complete it prior to being fully admitted. Finally, you must submit your financial documentation. This includes a letter of financial support and a bank statement, both less than six months old, showing a minimum of $69,365, which is the equivalent of funds required to cover the first year of study. UD offers more information on their webpage, so that you are always ahead and know what your next step is.
Application deadlines for international students are a little bit different than those for national students. For international students, there are three dates to keep in mind depending on what term you want to apply for. Fall term goes from August through December, and has an application deadline of May 1. For Spring term, going from January through April, the application deadline is November 1. The third term is Summer term. This goes from May through July and applies only to transfer students. The deadline for it is March 1. It is important for you to know that applicant for summer terms don’t have the option of conditional admission, and any Summer term application without English proficiency score will not be reviewed.
Once admitted to the University of Dayton, the University will provide accepted students with an immigration document that can be used to obtain an F-1 visa. UD’s commitment to equality and accessibility is further shown by their offers of Financial Aid. Did you know that the majority of international undergrad student receive a merit scholarship upon admission? These scholarships are worth up to $30,000 per year towards tuition costs. In order to be considered for a merit scholarship, international applicants only need to send their general admission application! This is because UD makes sure that all students are considered for a merit scholarship once they send their application and documents.
We came for the free application, but stayed for the incredible approach this University has towards its students and all the benefits they offer. Heads up: this is just the tip of the iceberg. Wether you need information on student loans, employment opportunities, housing, etc., UD has numerous resources and more information on their webpage. The University of Dayton is a top-tier research university, making it and ideal destination for innovative minds. At the University of Dayton, international students find a home away from home. Them waiving their application fees shows that their commitment to students goes above and beyond, making sure that anyone that looks up to the University has the opportunity of calling UD their home. And… did we mention they have a beautiful campus?
St. Louis University
Now let’s travel south west from Ohio. In the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, stands the prestigious St. Louis University and an exciting opportunity for international students from around the world. One of its standout features is its commitment to inclusivity, which is exemplified by the waiving of application fees for its applicants. SLU has students from more than 80 countries! The University was founded in 1818, and throughout two centuries has risen to become recognized for its world-class academics, commitment to service and compassionate health care professionals. Though St. Louis U has a variety of majors to choose from, some students pursue it because of its Health Professions and related programs. However, SLU offers a myriad of programs, from business to health sciences to humanities, arts and sciences. They pride themselves in their diversity, and that doesn’t only mean their students’ background, but also their futures.
Applying to SLU as an international student is easy and can be done in 3 simple steps (4 if you like to go above and beyond). Step one, students must complete an online application where students tell the school about their educational background and citizenship. Undergraduate admissions don’t ask for any application fee, making it accessible and attractive for students that want to aim high without harming their pockets. Step two is where aspiring students send transcripts of all their secondary work. They will be informed by SLU’s admission counselor what secondary credentials they need to send, including their English translations if needed. For step three, students must submit proof of their English language proficiency. You can prove your proficiency from any standardized test, such as TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, SAT, ACT or their Duolingo score! Yes, you heard that right. Don’t panic if you don’t meet SLU’s direct entry requirements. SLU allows you to apply to the Pathway or English Language programs offered by INTO Saint Louis University. With those three steps you’re good to go, but if you want to go the extra mile, as a step four you can submit a resumé of activities and letters of recommendation, as well as complete an admission interview. SLU accepts the Common App… they really don’t stop when it comes to students’ comfort!
SLU offers four application paths for all first-time applicants: Early Decision I, Early Decision II, Early Action and Regular Decision. For Early Decision I, the deadline is November 1, while Early Decision II has its deadline on January 16. The Early Action deadline is December 1. Finally, Regular Decision admissions are due April 1 and released on April 15 for those that completed their applications by March 16. Keep in mind that students applying for Flight Science, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy have a Regular Decision application deadline on Dec. 1.
Like UD, SLU does not ask for a standardized test score to be considered for admission! All you have to do is be graduating from high school, transfer from another university, have an acceptable HiSET exam score or take the GED test. Whatever path you choose, SLU makes it easy for you to navigate its application process, and opens the door to a life of opportunity, adventure and excitement. It definitely is a school worth considering if you want to study in the United States.
Trinity University
Trinity University was founded in 1869 by Cumberland Presbyterians in Tehuacana, Texas. Since then, it has moved through three cities and currently calls San Antonio, Texas, home. Their dedication to their students’ financial wellness is shown by the fact that 52% of Trinity students graduate with no debt thanks to scholarships and aid packages awarded to students. This dedication is shown from step one of their application process, as Trinity University does not charge a fee for applications submitted online by aspiring students. The University accepts Common Application or the Coalition Application, allowing more flexibility for its soon-to-be students.
Like with our previously mentioned schools, Trinity U’s application process is made straightforward with information on their webpage. The process can be divided into 4 steps, 5 if you want to apply for need-based financial aid. First, you submit your application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application, which allows more flexibility for TU’s soon-to-be students. Second, you must submit transcripts or school records. These records must be submitted by your school counselor or school official in order for Trinity to consider these official records. Third, you must submit proof of English proficiency. This can be done with TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo exams. However, this does not mean that international applicants are bound to these exams as only options. If you meet certain criteria and apply as a test-optional applicant, you can request an English Language Proficiency Waiver through the application portal. So, if you attend an English-medium secondary school for the 4 most recent consecutive years of study, or if English is your first language and you are a citizen of Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, or the UK. Fourth step is to submit your letter of recommendation, which include the Secondary School Report and a teacher evaluation. Finally, you can submit an application for need-based aid. Keep in mind that need-based financial aid is not available for foreign transfer students.
For First Year applications, deadlines are summarized by the following chart:
Beyond waiving the application fee, Trinity U offers International Financial Aid for eligible candidates. For their Class of 2026, Trinity offered almost $5.75 million in merit-based scholarships and need-based financial assistance, and that is just for International Students alone! Keep in mind that while you don’t need to submit an application to be considered for merit-based scholarships, you do need to submit the CSS Profile for International Students or the International Student FInancial Aid Application with your application for admission.
Applying as an international student doesn’t have to be complicated
Choosing a university is like finding your place in a new adventure, especially for international students setting their sights miles away from home. The process of finding your dream university, getting your documents ready, and applying might feel like navigating a jungle without a guide or a map. Feeling overwhelmed is no surprise. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Universities like the University of Dayton, St. Louis University and Trinity University are a clear example of a school that says “We see you, and we get it!” These schools aren’t just about education, they’re about building a global family and they understand the hurdles of applying from a different time zone. By waiving application fees, these universities aren’t just saving you a few bucks, they are showing their dedication to making your life and transition into college as smooth as possible. They show they care. As you gear up for this exiting chapter, remember, it’s not just about classes- it’s about finding a community that celebrates YOU and creates an environment where everyone is seen as the individual they are. Details like waiving application fees and making the application process as straightforward as possible speak highly of these universities’ commitment and understanding of its students. Like this iconic trio, there are several universities that also waive the application fee, which means you will find something that suits your needs! Our mission is to help point you towards the right direction. Like the universities mentioned, we believe in your success!
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