Top 20 US Universities with Application Fee Waivers & Fully Funded Graduate Programs (2026)
Published by WeMakeYouScholar | November 30, 2025
If you are an international student aspiring to study in the USA but find high application fees a hurdle, you’re not alone. Many students face non-refundable application fees of $60–$75, which can limit the number of universities they apply to. Fortunately, several US universities provide application fee waivers along with fully funded graduate programs, enabling talented students to focus on research and academics without financial stress.
This guide highlights 20 top US universities offering fee waivers, step-by-step application instructions, funding insights, and tips to maximize your acceptance chances.
Why Fee Waivers and Funding Matter for Global Students
- Eliminate upfront financial barriers for deserving international applicants.
- Apply to more universities without worrying about high fees.
- Access fully funded opportunities including Research Assistantships (RA), Graduate Assistantships (GA), and fellowships.
- Focus on academics and research rather than financial constraints.
Top 20 US Universities Offering Fee Waivers and Funding (2026)
| # | University | Fee Waiver Info | Funding & Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Alabama | Application-free week for graduate applicants | GTA/GRA stipend & tuition coverage |
| 2 | Virginia Tech University | Fee waiver via webinar participation | RA/Fellowships for PhD students |
| 3 | University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) | Attend virtual info sessions | GA/RA positions and tuition waivers |
| 4 | University at Buffalo, SUNY | Fee waiver on approved days | Internal fellowships & research grants |
| 5 | Boston College | Info session attendance | GAs, RAs, fellowships for Master’s & PhD |
| 6 | University of Central Missouri | Apply Nov 1–30, 2025 | Full funding eligibility for eligible programs |
| 7 | Ball State University | Webinar/Open House participation | $60 fee waiver + assistantships |
| 8 | Louisiana State University | Virtual info sessions | Competitive GAs/RAs |
| 9 | University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee | Session registration | $75 waiver + stipend |
| 10 | Emory University | Virtual graduate sessions | Fully funded PhD programs |
| 11 | New Jersey City University | Info session attendance | GAs/RAs + scholarships |
| 12 | North Carolina Central University | Apply before Nov 30, 2025 | Graduate funding packages available |
| 13 | West Chester University | For graduate applicants only | International student funding |
| 14 | Georgia Southern University | Apply Oct 25–Nov 15, 2025 | $50 fee waiver |
| 15 | Marquette University | Attend info session | $50 waiver + funding |
| 16 | Montclair State University | Online graduate info session | Funding eligibility for eligible programs |
| 17 | Western Michigan University | Graduate applicants only | GA/RA positions available |
| 18 | Rice University | Application-free week | Fully funded assistantships/fellowships |
| 19 | Oklahoma City University | Virtual graduate school session | Fee waiver + funding |
| 20 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Application-free week | Graduate funding support |
Tip: Participation in webinars or virtual events often unlocks fee waivers and sometimes early access to funding.
Eligibility Guidelines
- Be admitted or meet admission prerequisites.
- Demonstrate financial need or meet waiver criteria.
- Participate in required info sessions or webinars.
- Submit applications within the designated fee waiver window.
Pro Tip: Early submission increases the likelihood of both fee waiver and funding approvals.
Step-by-Step Application & Funding Strategy
- Shortlist Universities: Select programs aligning with research or career goals.
- Check Waiver Policies: Identify webinars, info sessions, or special codes required.
- Register & Attend: Secure fee waiver eligibility through participation.
- Prepare Application Documents: CV, transcripts, SOP, recommendation letters.
- Submit Applications: Ensure all forms and documents meet university guidelines.
- Follow Up: Confirm fee waiver and scholarship statuses.
Funding Overview
- Tuition Coverage: Full or partial for Master’s & PhD programs.
- Monthly Stipends: Support for living expenses.
- GAs/RAs: Opportunities to work in research or teaching while receiving funding.
- Travel & Accommodation: Some programs cover airfare and housing.
Selecting the Best University for You
- Program Specialization: STEM, Social Sciences, Business, or Law.
- Cost of Living: Affordable cities vs. high-cost regions.
- Research Facilities: Labs, mentorship, collaborations.
- Funding Opportunities: Assistantships, fellowships, internal scholarships.
Success Highlights
- Dr. Ayesha Khan (Pakistan) – Funded PhD in Agricultural Sciences, now leading national research projects.
- Mr. Li Wei (China) – Biotech research with international publications.
- Ms. Thandi Moyo (South Africa) – Astronomy research collaborations with NASA.
- Mr. Ramesh Patel (India) – Molecular Biology innovations and mentoring programs.
- Ms. Camila Santos (Brazil) – Earth sciences research impacting local policy.
Pro Tips for International Applicants
- Apply early to maximize fee waiver eligibility.
- Attend webinars and virtual fairs for networking.
- Strengthen English communication and academic writing skills.
- Highlight research relevance to your home country.
- Prepare for visas and cultural adaptation.
FAQs
Q1: Do fee waivers affect admission?
A: No, admissions decisions are independent, but attending info sessions may improve visibility.
Q2: Can I apply to multiple universities for waivers?
A: Yes, if you meet each university’s criteria.
Q3: Are all fully funded programs tied to fee waivers?
A: Not always, but many universities offering waivers also provide assistantships/fellowships.
Q4: Do I need proof of financial need for every waiver?
A: Some universities require it; others waive fees after webinar participation.
Q5: When should I start preparing applications?
A: Begin 3–6 months before the waiver window opens.
Other Important Scholarships:
Don’t miss out on these exclusive application fee waivers and fully funded programs at top US universities. Start your journey now by researching the universities, preparing all required documents, attending webinars if needed, and submitting your applications early. By taking action today, you can unlock fee waivers, secure funding, and advance your academic and research career while making a meaningful impact in your home country.
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