Let me begin this by saying that I am in no way eligible for fee waivers related to my financial situation. You can imagine my surprise then, when a prominent university contacted me by email and offered to waive my application fee if I considered applying. Now, I’m a pretty good student, but I’m not exactly a shining star compared to some of my peers. This isn’t even the first time it has happened; I’ve received around three of these emails from different schools (who all happen to be less selective). Do you think they just made a mistake? Or do they do it purposely in hopes of raising interest? I was actually planning to apply to one of the schools who offered me the waiver. I’m just nervous about there being some kind of fine print.
Yes, schools do waive fees to attract more applicants. My kids received several of these.
They spam the free application offer to increase the number of applications. It’s a cynical strategy to lower the acceptance rate and enhance the appearance of selectivity.
Oh well, that’s what I feared. It’s kind of sneaky if you think about it.
If you’re within the ballpark of being accepted and you like the school, no harm in applying, even if the invitation is sent to a lot of people
If it is a school you were planning to apply to anyway, then do-- there is no reason not too.