By Alexis Cala

High school juniors and seniors who are preparing for college are often required to take the ACT or SAT before they graduate. But registration fees for these exams can be costly. While many of these fees are unavoidable, there are programs and tips that can help you save on college prep exams:

Not sure which test to take? Learn more about the SAT and ACT.

1. Fee Waivers
Students who want to apply for college, but can’t afford test fees may be eligible for fee waivers.

SAT Program Fee Waiver

ACT Fee Waiver

Generally, students who participate in free or reduced-price school lunches are eligible for these programs. Contact your school counselor to receive more information.

2. Practice Tests
Another way to save on college prep exams is to use practice tests. Being well prepared for the SAT or ACT can help you get the score you want the first time around. That way you won’t have to take the test again. Knowing what to expect can also help with test anxieties.

Before you spend a ton of money on practice tests, take a look at these free opportunities for test prep:

Free SAT practice tests 

Free ACT prep and practice tests

3. Test Scores
Once you’ve taken the tests, you need to send your scores to the schools you’re applying to. This will cost around $10 per test you send. Talk to your counselor or advisor about the school forwarding your test scores along with your transcripts for free.