The average number of applications most prospective graduate students submit is between five and seven. Remember, each application entails not only a potentially lengthy process, but oftentimes comes with a fee. The average application fee is $44, with some as high as $105 (University of California system). There are some universities that do not charge application fees, and many schools offer application fee waivers for a variety of reasons including financial constraints, veteran status and campus visits.
Visiting a campus either in-person or virtually, meeting with admissions officers and/or participating in online campus programs are good ways to receive an application fee waiver. Typically, you’ll receive a code to be input before you submit your application to waive the fee. Your decision on which programs to apply to shouldn’t be based on whether they have an application fee though. A no-fee program may not be right for you or offer what you are looking for. However, it’s important to research what application fees are involved, if any, and whether they offer fee waivers.