Best Colleges With No Application Fee in Illinois

Application fees can quickly add up, especially if you’re considering multiple institutions. However, some fantastic colleges in Illinois offer the advantage of waiving their application fees.

In this article, we’ll explore the top colleges with no application fee in Illinois, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about your future education.

Illinois Colleges with no Application Fee

Illinois Institute of Technology

Starting our list, we have the prestigious Illinois Institute of Technology, a private, not-for-profit university in Chicago, Illinois. With over 471 bachelor’s degree candidates, this institution offers a somewhat competitive admission process, boasting an acceptance rate of 54%.

The Illinois Institute of Technology ranks as the top college with no application fee in Illinois, providing a range of programs to choose from. The net price for attending this esteemed university is $63,749, and the SAT score range lies between 1230 and 1410, while the ACT range is 25-31.

Illinois Wesleyan University

Next on our list is Illinois Wesleyan University, another excellent private, not-for-profit university based in Bloomington, Illinois. With an enrollment of over 378 bachelor’s degree candidates, the university maintains a somewhat competitive acceptance rate of 60%. Illinois Wesleyan University offers various undergraduate programs to suit your academic aspirations. The net price for attending this university is $58,830, with an SAT score range of 1195-1395 and an ACT range of 24-29.

Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago, located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, is a well-established private, not-for-profit university with over 2,654 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process here is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 70%. Loyola University Chicago ranks third among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee, offering a diverse range of academic programs. The net price for attending this university is $59,958, and the SAT score range is 1120-1310, with an ACT range of 24-29.

DePaul University

Situated in Chicago, Illinois, DePaul University is a respected private, not-for-profit institution with an enrollment of over 2,542 bachelor’s degree candidates. The university maintains a somewhat competitive acceptance rate of 71%. DePaul University offers various academic opportunities and ranks fourth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee. The net price for attending this institution is $56,275.

Bradley University

Moving on to Bradley University, located in Peoria, Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 1,266 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Bradley University is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 71%. This institution offers an array of undergraduate programs and ranks fifth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee. The net price for attending Bradley University is $46,680, with an SAT score range of 1080-1290 and an ACT range of 22-28.

Augustana College

Augustana College, situated in Rock Island, Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 735 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Augustana College is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 58%. The college ranks sixth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee and offers various academic programs. The net price for attending Augustana College is $53,422.

Lake Forest College

Nestled in Lake Forest, Illinois, Lake Forest College is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 357 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Lake Forest College is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 52%. The college ranks seventh among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee and offers diverse academic opportunities. The net price for attending Lake Forest College is $58,675.

University of St. Francis

The University of St. Francis, based in Joliet, Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 229 bachelor’s degree candidates. The University of St. Francis admission process is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 51%. This university ranks eighth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee and provides various academic programs. The net price for attending the University of St. Francis is $44,628, with an SAT score range of 1030-1240 and an ACT range of 20-25.

Illinois College

Located in Jacksonville, Illinois, Illinois College is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 258 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Illinois College is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 54%. This college ranks ninth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee, offering a wide range of academic programs. The net price for attending Illinois College is $42,830.

North Park University

North Park University, situated in Chicago, Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 388 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at North Park University is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 53%. The university ranks tenth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee, providing numerous academic opportunities. The net price for attending North Park University is $41,430, with an SAT score range of 1000-1190 and an ACT range of 19-24.

Lake Land College

Lake Land College in Mattoon, Illinois, is an excellent option for those seeking a public university with no application fee. This 2-4 year college provides various academic programs without charging an application fee. The net price for attending Lake Land College is $8,174.

Elgin Community College

Elgin Community College in Elgin, Illinois, is another excellent public university with no application fee. Offering a range of academic programs, the college is an affordable choice for many students. The net price for attending Elgin Community College is $11,952.

Lewis and Clark Community College

Located in Godfrey, Illinois, Lewis and Clark Community College is a public university that does not charge an application fee. With its various academic programs, this college presents numerous opportunities for students. The net price for attending Lewis and Clark Community College is $10,200.

Monmouth College

Monmouth College, situated in Monmouth, Illinois, is a private, not-for-profit university with an enrollment of over 281 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Monmouth College is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 67%. The college ranks fourteenth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee, offering diverse academic opportunities. The net price for attending Monmouth College is $47,970, with an SAT score range of 900-1090 and an ACT range of 20-25.

Millikin University

Finally, we have Millikin University, based in Decatur, Illinois. This private, not-for-profit university has an enrollment of over 474 bachelor’s degree candidates. The admission process at Millikin University is somewhat competitive, with an acceptance rate of 64%. The university ranks fifteenth among Illinois’s best colleges with no application fee, providing various academic programs. The net price for attending Millikin University is $47,664, with an SAT score range of 1080-1260 and an ACT range of 19-26.

When considering colleges in Illinois, the application fee can be a significant factor. Fortunately, numerous excellent institutions offer top-notch education without charging an application fee. From the Illinois Institute of Technology to Millikin University, each college provides unique opportunities for students to pursue their academic dreams. Take your time to explore these institutions, understand their offerings, and choose the one that aligns best with your aspirations and goals. Good luck on your educational journey

FAQs

How to Choose Colleges with No Application Fee

Choosing colleges with no application fee requires some research and consideration. Here are some steps to help you in the process:

• Make a List of Potential Colleges: List colleges you are interested in attending. Look for colleges that align with your academic interests, career goals, and location preferences.
• Check for Application Fees: Once you have your list, check each college’s website or admissions portal to see if they charge an application fee. Many colleges provide this information upfront, making identifying those with no application fee easy.
• Consider Eligibility: Take note of the admission criteria and ensure that you meet each college’s requirements. Some colleges may waive the application fee for specific students, such as those from low-income families or first-generation college students.
• Explore Financial Aid and Scholarships: Look into the financial aid and scholarship opportunities the colleges offer. A free application might save you money upfront, but it’s also essential to consider the overall cost of attendance and available financial support.
• Visit Campus and Gather Information: If possible, visit the colleges you are interested in. Attend information sessions, speak with current students, and get a feel for the campus environment.
• Rank Your Choices: Based on the above factors, rank your choices and narrow your list to the colleges that best align with your goals and preferences.
• Apply Strategically: Finally, apply to your selected colleges strategically. Use the information you gathered to tailor your application to each institution, showcasing your genuine interest in attending.

How to Apply for a College in Illinois?

To apply for a college in Illinois, follow these general steps:

• Research Colleges: Start by researching colleges in Illinois and identifying the ones that offer programs aligned with your academic and career interests.
• Check Admission Requirements: Review the admission requirements for each college you’re interested in. This typically includes academic transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
• Complete Applications: If applicable, submit your applications through the college’s official website or the Common Application platform. Make sure to follow the instructions and submit all required documents.
• Submit Transcripts and Test Scores: Arrange for your high school or previous college to send official transcripts, and if required, submit your standardized test scores to the colleges you’re applying to.
• Write a Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your achievements, aspirations, and reasons for wanting to attend each college.
• Pay Attention to Deadlines: Note the application deadlines for each college. Some colleges may have early decisions or early action options with different deadlines.
• Apply for Financial Aid: If you need financial assistance, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply for federal and state aid.
• Track Your Applications: Keep track of your application status and any additional documents required by each college.

Can Free College Applications Save You Money?

Yes, free college applications can save you money. When applying to multiple colleges, application fees can quickly add up. By choosing colleges with no application fee, you can save significant expenses during the application process. This allows you to allocate those funds toward other college-related costs or investments in your education.

Do Some Colleges Charge Application Fees?

Yes, many colleges charge application fees. Application fees are used to cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. The prices vary widely, ranging from $50 to $100 per application. However, some colleges, particularly those committed to accessibility and inclusivity, waive the application fee for sure students to make the application process more affordable.

Remember that application fee waivers may be available for students with financial needs, first-generation students, veterans, and others. Additionally, some colleges offer specific days or periods where they waive application fees as part of promotional events or outreach efforts. Always check individual colleges’ policies on application fees and fee waivers.