How to Get a SAT or ACT Subsidy for Your Teen
Since getting a college education isn’t enough, paying for SAT and ACT tests as part of the admissions process can be a challenge for many high school students and their families.
The SAT currently costs $ 47.50 ($ 64.50 with part of the essay) and $ 22 for each SAT subject test, not including the $ 26 registration fee. ACT costs $ 50.50 ($ 67 with writing) and there are additional late registration fees for each test. Advanced Placement (AP) tests cost $ 94.
Add to that the fact that many college counselors recommend taking the test multiple times to get the best results, and the numbers can get out of hand very quickly.
Some colleges and universities downplay the importance of SAT and ACT scores, especially when students meet the minimum GPA or grade level. From a functional standpoint, however, these tests are still very deeply rooted in the college entrance process.
Low-income high school students may be eligible for a fee waiver if they meet certain requirements. The college council details who is eligible for the SAT fee waiver and how to apply:
You have the right to be waived from the commission if you answer yes to any of the following questions:
- You are registered or eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
- Your annual household income meets the income generation, established food service and food to the US Department of Agriculture.
- You are participating in a federal, state, or local student assistance program for low-income students (for example, federal TRIO programs such as the Upward Bound).
- Your family is receiving government assistance.
- You live in government-subsidized public housing or a shelter, or you are homeless.
- You are under the care of the state or an orphan.
Likewise, there are no fees for ACT for students who meet the following criteria:
1. They are currently in grade 11 or 12 in high school.
2. Get tested in the US, US Territories, or Puerto Rico.
3. Meet one or more of the following indicators of economic need:
- You are enrolled in the Federal Free Lunch or Reduced School Lunch Program based on USDA income level.
- You are participating in low-income programs such as federally funded programs such as GEAR UP or Upward Bound.
- Lives with a foster family, is under state custody, or is homeless.
- The family receives low income government assistance or lives in government subsidized public housing.
- Household gross annual income does not exceed the USDA level for free or discounted meals on the USDA Food and Catering Services website .
Talk to your child’s school counselor for help with the fee waiver application process or to determine if you are eligible.