Requesting an Enrollment Deposit Fee Waiver

An enrollment deposit fee is essentially a non-refundable payment made to your college of choice to guarantee your spot in the incoming freshmen class. This fee varies depending on the school - and can be anywhere from $100 to $1,000! This deposit is applied to your tuition bill and may be used to confirm your housing, registration for orientation, or other on-campus costs. If you need help with this enrollment deposit, you can apply for waiver (just like with your college application fees).

Where to start

Before paying your enrollment deposit, do a final review of your financial aid package and speak with your school’s financial aid office. Even with the help of financial aid, some students and their families may be worried about finding the funds to make the deposit payment.

What to complete

If you or your family is experiencing a financial hardship, you can submit an enrollment deposit fee waiver request directly to your college or university. The National Association for College Admission Counseling, or NACAC, has created a helpful waiver form that can be completed without having to print anything.

Who to reach out to

After completing the waiver form, send it to your college admissions office. Make sure to explain your circumstances by email; the admissions office may be able to help you with any school-specific policies or programs.

What happens next

The college or university will make the final decision to accept or deny a request to waive the enrollment deposit fee. It may take a couple weeks for this process so make sure to submit it as soon as possible and check in with your school’s admissions office if you have any questions.