Top 8 U.S. Universities That Waive Application Fees for International Students (2025)

Dreaming of studying in the U.S. but worried about the application costs? Good news many top U.S. universities are now waiving application fees for international students in 2025. These no-fee options can help you apply to more institutions without breaking the bank.

 Why Apply to the U.S. Universities with No Application Fee?

Application fees in the U.S. typically range between $50 and $100 per university  and they’re non-refundable, even if you’re not admitted. For international students applying to multiple schools, this can quickly add up.

Universities with no application fees eliminate this barrier, allowing students from diverse financial backgrounds to pursue U.S. education without upfront costs.

Top U.S. Universities Without Application Fees (2025)

More U.S Universities with No Application Fee (2025)

These additional universities may be lesser-known globally, but they offer strong academic programs and inclusive application policies  all without charging application fees.

Tulane University

• Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
  
• Acceptance Rate: 8.6% (Highly Competitive)
  
• Popular Programs: Business, Public Health, Architecture
  
• Average Tuition: $58,530
  
• Why Tulane? A prestigious research university with strong programs in public health and business, set in a vibrant city.
  

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU)

• Location: Marion, Indiana
  
• Acceptance Rate: 90%
  
• Popular Programs: Nursing, Business Administration, Christian Ministries
  
• Average Tuition: $34,220
  
• Why IWU? A faith-based institution with small class sizes and over 280 programs.
  

Michigan Technological University

• Location: Houghton, Michigan
  
• Acceptance Rate: 70%
  
• Popular Programs: Mechanical & Electrical Engineering, Computer Science
  
• Average Tuition: $32,342
  
• Why Michigan Tech? A STEM-focused university known for innovation, research, and industry connections.
  

Saint Louis University (SLU)

• Location: St. Louis, Missouri
  
• Acceptance Rate: 55%
  
• Popular Programs: Business, Medicine, Nursing
  
• Average Tuition: $44,820
  
• Why SLU? Combines Jesuit values with academic excellence and a diverse student body.
  

Denison University

• Location: Granville, Ohio
  
• Popular Programs: Economics, Biology, English
  
• Average Tuition: $57,220
  
• Why Denison? A top liberal arts college offering personal mentorship and strong career prep.
  

Key Benefits of No-Fee Application

• Financial Relief: Save $300–$600+ by avoiding fees.
  
•  Wider Options: Apply to more schools without worrying about the cost.
  
•  Accessible to All: Ideal for students from countries with currency conversion issues or limited credit access.
  
• Explore More: Consider liberal arts colleges, tech schools, and religious institutions.
  

 Tips for International Students

•  Always Check the Official Website: Fee waiver policies can change yearly.
  
•  Use the Common App: Many no-fee schools participate in the Common Application platform.
  
•  Tailor Your Essays: Each university has unique values customize your statement accordingly.
  
•  Use Tools like Niche & College Board: Filter schools with no application fees easily.
  

Applying to U.S. universities doesn’t have to be financially stressful. With more institutions waiving application fees for international students, your dream of studying in the U.S. is more accessible than ever.