Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is determined based on financial need or by participation in the McNair Scholars or PPIA Fellows program.
Unfortunately, applicants studying on F or J visas are not eligible for application fee waivers.
- Washington College Grant Program eligibility criteria is used to determine financial need. Waivers are based on the 100% Median Family Income (MFI).
- Reported income should be based on the most recent tax year.
- Washington state residency is not required to qualify.
- Supporting documentation is not required at the time of application however, in the case of an audit, income documents may be requested.
- When completing the waiver request, please indicate which grant program you qualify under.
- Supporting documentation is required for McNair Scholars and PPIA Fellows:
- Documentation should be sent to uwgrad@uw.edu
- Accepted documentation:
- A signed letter from the program director certifying current participation in the grant program. Dates of participation must be included in the letter.
How to Apply
Fee waiver request should be submitted at least seven (7) days before the posted application deadline.
- Complete the Profile Information section of the Graduate School application.
- Near the bottom of the Profile Information Section, indicate “Yes” to the question: ‘Are you a current McNair Scholar or PPIA Fellow and want to request an application fee waiver?’
- You will be prompted to upload required documentation: a signed letter certifying current participation in the grant program.
- After uploading your documentation, your request will be reviewed by the Graduate School staff within three business days. You will receive a waiver decision notification via email.
- While your fee waiver is under review, you may proceed with the rest of the application, including submitting your application.
- After you receive notification of approval, ensure that you have submitted your application. If you do not submit your application, your application will not be reviewed.
FAQs
No, if you have already paid the application fee, your waiver request will be denied.
The only individuals that do not qualify based on immigration/residency status are those on F or J visas. This is due to federal requirements tied to eligibility for these visas. All other applicants, including other visa holders and undocumented immigrants are encouraged to apply.
No, at this time we only approve fee waivers for McNair Scholars, PPIA Fellows, and those that have demonstrated a financial need. Some academic departments have programs that help applicants qualify to have their fees paid on their behalf. If you do not qualify for a Graduate School fee waiver, you are encouraged to contact your graduate program to see if you qualify for their program.