Georgia high school seniors looking to continue their education after graduation can apply to more than 60 colleges and universities across the state for free during the month of November.
The Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC), in partnership with the University System of Georgia, Technical College System of Georgia, and private institutions, is offering college application fee waivers through the annual Apply to College Month Initiative.
The program runs from November 1 through November 30, 2026, giving graduating seniors an opportunity to apply to participating colleges and universities without paying application fees.
This marks the sixth year GSFC has promoted application fee waivers during November. Students can apply to as many participating institutions as they wish, with no limit on the number of application fee waivers they can use.
Governor Brian Kemp praised the initiative as another step toward making higher education more accessible and affordable for Georgia families.
“Georgia is the Top State for Talent because we make sure each student has a clear path from the classroom to a great education and career right here in Georgia,” Kemp said.
The governor also highlighted the state’s efforts to reduce the financial burden of higher education, including restoring the HOPE Scholarship to fully cover tuition for eligible students and making historic investments in need-based financial aid.
GSFC President Chris Green said the initiative helps eliminate financial barriers that could prevent students from pursuing college opportunities.
“Georgia seniors do not have to choose between paying application fees and pursuing the next step in their higher education journey,” Green said.
While application fees vary by institution, the savings can add up quickly for students applying to several colleges.
In addition to the application fee waivers, GSFC is encouraging students to explore approximately $1 billion in scholarships and grants available to help cover higher education expenses.
Students applying to public colleges and universities through the GEORGIA MATCH direct admissions dashboard during November will have their application fee waivers automatically applied.
A complete list of participating institutions, along with instructions for accessing the waivers, is available at GAfutures.org.
Students and families interested in learning more about college applications, scholarships, grants, and the GEORGIA MATCH program can also schedule a meeting with a regional GSFC Outreach representative by visiting GAfutures.org/outreach.
The application fee waiver opportunity is available throughout November, with the deadline to take advantage of the initiative set for November 30.