Indiana families have a timely opportunity to apply to college without paying the usual application fees. As part of the state’s annual College Application Week, a broad slate of Indiana colleges and universities are waiving their application fees from September 21 to September 25. This initiative is designed to encourage more Hoosier students to consider higher‑education options and to reduce financial barriers that can deter first‑generation and low‑income applicants.
Participating schools
The waiver list includes public and private institutions across the state. While the original source directs readers to a full list, notable participants include Indiana University Bloomington, Purdue University, Butler University, University of Southern Indiana, and several community colleges such as Ivy Tech and Vincennes University. Each school has confirmed that any applicant who submits an online application during the designated week will not be charged the standard processing fee.
How to apply
Students should visit the individual college’s admissions website to start their application. The fee‑waiver automatically applies when the application is submitted between September 21 and September 25; no additional code or paperwork is required. Applicants must still meet each school’s standard admission criteria, but the removal of the fee removes a common obstacle for many families.
Scholarship contest
In addition to the fee‑waiver, the state is offering a scholarship contest that could award five $1,000 scholarships. Winners will have the funds deposited directly into an Indiana 529 college‑savings account, providing a boost toward tuition, books, or other education‑related expenses. To be eligible, participants must be at least 18 years old, Indiana residents, and possess a Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number. The contest entry is completed by filling out a short survey linked from the College Application Week website. The deadline for contest submissions is November 24.
Why this matters
College Application Week aligns with the broader goal of increasing post‑secondary enrollment rates in Indiana, especially among students from underserved communities. By eliminating application fees, the state removes a tangible cost that can discourage families from even beginning the college‑search process. The scholarship contest adds an extra incentive, encouraging students to plan for long‑term savings through the 529 program.
Support from local organizations
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom funded by grants and donations, highlighted the initiative and provided contact information for higher‑education reporter Claire Rafford. Community groups, high‑school counselors, and parent‑teacher associations are urged to spread the word so that eligible students can take advantage of the fee‑waiver and scholarship opportunity.
Next steps for families
Parents and students should review the participating schools’ admission calendars, gather required documents (transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters), and begin the online application process before September 21. For those interested in the scholarship, completing the survey promptly will ensure eligibility before the November 24 deadline. Local libraries and school counseling offices can provide additional assistance with the application process.
By taking advantage of this week‑long fee‑waiver and scholarship contest, Indiana’s next generation of college students can move closer to achieving their educational goals without the burden of unnecessary fees.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
