More than 130 colleges and universities across New York State are waiving application fees for high school seniors through the 2026 College Application Initiative, according to the state Higher Education Services Corporation.
The waiver periods vary by institution and student group. CUNY's window for New York City public-school seniors runs through November 16, while SUNY's period is October 19 through November 2; participating private colleges set their own periods.
Application fees can range from $50 to $90, the state says. The initiative especially encourages students from low-income families and first-generation students to apply to at least one college.
