by Save Big by Applying Fee-Free in 2025–2026
Applying to US graduate programs can be financially daunting—especially when each application comes with a $50–$100 fee. But if you’re aiming for Fall 2026 admission, there’s an opportunity to save that money. Several graduate schools in the U.S. are either waiving their application fees entirely or offering fee waiver options.
If you’ve been searching Google for phrases like:
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“US universities with no application fee 2026”
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“Graduate schools waiving application fees”
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“Apply free of charge to graduate school 2026”
…then you’re in the right place. This guide not only highlights schools waiving application fees, but also shows you how to leverage these opportunities effectively.
Plus, if you’re an international student, you might like our related guide: How to Pay UK School Fees from Nigeria in 2025 – The Complete Student Guide for managing school fees securely. (Interlinked for further reading.)
Universities with Absolutely No Application Fee for Fall 2026 Graduate Programs
1. University of Portland (Oregon)
The University of Portland Graduate School offers a significant cost break:
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No application fee for graduate applicants pursuing degree or certificate programs.
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Only non-degree seekers pay a $50 fee.
This policy makes UP highly accessible—and worth considering if you’re budget-conscious. up.edu
2. Rice University (Texas)
Prestigious Rice University rolls out “Fee Waiver Weeks” for doctoral applicants for the Fall 2026 term:
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Fee waiver window: October 14 to November 1, 2025.
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Available for both domestic and international doctoral candidates.
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Eligibility includes GPA and on-time application submission. Rice Graduate Studies+1
This rare opportunity allows you to apply free to one of the most competitive research universities.
3. Wayne State University (Michigan)
Wayne State University Graduate School has waived application fees for Spring/Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Winter 2026 terms. While Fall 2026 hasn’t been explicitly confirmed, it’s strongly expected based on past practice. up.eduInform Study Abroad
(No specific page found, but referenced from general admissions information.)
4. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU International Admissions offers:
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No application fee for doctoral programs.
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Other graduate degrees may still require a ~US$40 fee. Inform Study Abroad
An excellent option if you’re pursuing advanced degrees with budget constraints.
5. Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE)
MSOE’s Graduate Admissions confirms:
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Free application for all graduate programs.
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No fee whatsoever, making it an appealing choice for STEM-focused applicants. Inform Study Abroad
Schools Offering Application Fee Waivers Upon Request
6. University of Notre Dame (Indiana)
The Graduate School allows students to request an application fee waiver subject to eligibility and documentation. This isn’t automatic—it requires meaningful effort to qualify. Inform Study Abroadup.edu
7. Boston University – College of Engineering
At BU’s Engineering Graduate Admissions:
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Submit a waiver request before application submission.
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Processing takes 1–5 business days.
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If approved, you get in for free. Inform Study Abroadup.edu
Schools That Still Require Application Fees
8. University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM)
Despite some listings claiming otherwise, ULM still requires a $40 application fee. Waivers are limited only to active U.S. military personnel. up.eduInform Study Abroad
Comparison Table: Quick Look
| University | Fee Status |
|---|---|
| University of Portland | No fee (degree/certificate) |
| Rice University (Doctoral) | Waived during Oct 14–Nov 1, 2025 |
| Wayne State University | Likely waived for Fall 2026 |
| SNHU (Doctoral) | No application fee |
| Milwaukee School of Engineering | Free graduate applications |
| University of Notre Dame | Fee waiver on request |
| Boston University (Engineering) | Fee waiver on request before submission |
| University of Louisiana Monroe | Fee applies (military waiver only) |
FAQ Section – Your Application Questions Answered
Q: Are these opportunities available to international students?
Yes—schools like Rice and Portland waive fees for international applicants too.
Q: What’s the best strategy?
Apply early, especially during fee waiver windows like Rice’s Oct 14–Nov 1, 2025.
Q: Are high-ranked universities offering fee waivers?
Yes! Even top-tier institutions like Rice and Notre Dame offer paths to waive application fees.
Q: Can I apply to multiple schools fee-free?
Absolutely—with the right planning and documentation, you can apply to multiple schools without spending application fees.
Final Thoughts
If you’re preparing to apply for Fall 2026 graduate programs in the U.S., this guide gives you a clear edge. Don’t pay unnecessary fees—instead, strategically apply where you can save.
As a bonus, if you plan to study in the UK, check out our related piece: How to Pay UK School Fees from Nigeria in 2025 – The Complete Student Guide. It’s a must-read for Nigerian students navigating school fees securely. (Interlink included)
Pro tip: Bookmark this resource, stay updated with each admissions site, and apply early. Your dream graduate school might just accept you—for free.
