SAT Fee Waiver 2026: How to Get it as an International Student?

SAT fee waivers are often misunderstood by international students because eligibility is based less on income alone and more on citizenship, residency, and how the College Board defines 'access'.

Key Highlights:

• SAT fee waivers are for US students, not international students, as eligibility depends on citizenship and where you live, not just family income.
• Eligible students can save USD 60-110 (₹5,460-₹10,010) on SAT registration, score reports, and some extra fees.
• International (non-U.S. citizen) students have to pay full SAT fees, even if they have financial need.

What is a SAT Fee Waiver?

A SAT fee waiver allows eligible students to take the SAT free of cost, saving approximately USD 60-110 (₹5,460-₹10,010). The SAT waiver is made to reduce financial barriers by providing support for SAT registration, score reporting, and related administrative costs.

Here’s a breakdown of costs covered under a SAT fee waiver and how much students save:

Are SAT Fee Waivers Available for International Students in 2026?

No, SAT fee waivers are generally not available for international students in 2026. The College Board offers fee waivers only to low-income students living in the United States or U.S. territories, or to U.S. citizens studying abroad. 

This means most international (non-U.S. citizen) students will need to pay the regular SAT fees, even if they have financial need.

Who Is Eligible for an SAT Fee Waiver?

To get an SAT fee waiver, you need to meet two main conditions: you must live in the U.S. (or be a U.S. citizen), and your family must have financial need as defined by the College Board.

Students Living in the United States or U.S. Territories

You qualify for an SAT fee waiver if your family income is low or you receive government assistance, and you live and study in the United States or a U.S. territory. In most cases, your school counsellor helps confirm this and provides you with a fee waiver code.

U.S. Citizens Studying Outside the United States

If you are a U.S. citizen living or studying abroad, you can still get an SAT fee waiver as long as you meet the financial requirements. Your eligibility has to be verified by a school counsellor or a responsible adult who can confirm your situation to the College Board.

Students in Low-Income or Government Support Programs

Students who are part of recognised support programs, such as free or reduced-price school lunch programs or other education aid programs, also qualify. Being enrolled in these programs makes it easier to prove financial need.

Students in Foster Care, State Care, or Without Stable Housing

Students who are homeless, living in foster care, staying in government-supported housing, or who are wards of the state can also be eligible for an SAT fee waiver. These situations should be documented or verified during the application process.

What Does a SAT Fee Waiver Include?

A SAT fee waiver helps eligible students by covering the SAT registration fee and providing extra benefits like free score reports, making the test more affordable overall.

Free SAT Registration

The fee waiver for the SAT exam covers the full cost of registering for the SAT, so you don’t have to pay the standard exam fee. Eligible students can use the waiver to take the SAT up to two times, as allowed by the College Board.

Free Additional Score Reports

Students using an SAT fee waiver can send their SAT scores to more colleges for free than regular test takers. This helps reduce application-related costs when applying to multiple universities.

Waiver of Certain Extra Fees

In some cases, the fee waiver also removes late registration fees or international testing fees, depending on the student’s eligibility and testing location. This further reduces the overall cost of taking the SAT.

What Is Not Included in a SAT Fee Waiver?

A SAT fee waiver does not cover everything related to the exam or college applications. It does not pay for SAT preparation courses, coaching, study materials, or test rescheduling if you miss your exam, and it also does not automatically cover college application fees unless a university offers a separate application fee waiver.

How to Register for the SAT Fee Waiver?

Getting an SAT fee waiver is not complicated. First, you get permission in the form of a fee waiver code, and then you use that code when you register for the SAT online.

Below are the steps to register for the SAT fee waiver in detail:

Step 1: Check If You Can Get a Fee Waiver

Start by checking whether you meet the basic rules for an SAT fee waiver, such as where you live and your family’s financial situation. If you are confused, your school counsellor can quickly tell you if you are eligible or not.

Step 2: Talk to Your School Counsellor

Most students get their SAT fee waiver through their school counsellor or a school official. They will check your details and help you start the fee waiver process.

Step 3: Receive Your Fee Waiver Code

You will be given a SAT fee waiver code once everything is approved. This code is very important because it is what removes the SAT exam fee during registration.

Step 4: Register for the SAT Online

Go to the College Board website and start your SAT registration like normal. When you reach the payment step, enter your fee waiver code, and the exam fee will be reduced to zero.

Step 5: Pick Your Test Date and Test Centre

After applying the fee waiver, choose the SAT test date and exam centre that works best for you. Double-check all the details before submitting, because missing your test can use up your fee waiver.

From the Desk of Yocket

Many international students worry about paying full SAT fees even when they have financial difficulties. The main tip is to check your eligibility early and understand that fee waivers are mostly for U.S. students or U.S. citizens abroad. This helps avoid last-minute surprises and plan your exam registration better.

Yocket Prep can make this process easier. It guides students on SAT registration, fee waivers for eligible candidates, and other exam prep essentials. Even if you are an international student paying full fees, Yocket Prep can help you prepare effectively and maximise your SAT score.