October 12, 2025

North Carolina College Application Week Offers Fee Waivers

North Carolina, October 12, 2025

News Summary

College Application Week in North Carolina is set for October 20-26, allowing high school seniors to apply to state colleges without application fees. This initiative encourages students to pursue their educational goals amid challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Schools are motivating seniors to seize this opportunity while providing support through counselors. Despite disruptions from the hurricane, students continue to adapt and prepare for their college futures.

North Carolina

College Application Week in North Carolina is scheduled for Oct. 20-26, offering an opportunity for high school seniors to apply to many state colleges and universities without any application fees as part of the “Countdown to College” initiative. This year, participants will waive application fees throughout the designated week, encouraging students to take this important step towards their future.

High schools across North Carolina are emphasizing the significance of this week. Educational institutions are urging seniors not to overlook this chance to advance their educational goals. For example, schools in Haywood County Schools have made clear statements on the importance of College Application Week, motivating seniors to seize the opportunities presented. Similarly, Rutherford County Schools are advocating for students to explore multiple college options, keeping their choices open for the future.

Students can seamlessly submit applications online using the CFNC Application Hub, which also provides a platform for requesting free high school transcript submissions to participating colleges. A comprehensive list of colleges that are waiving application fees can be accessed through the CFNC website. School officials recommend that students consider applying to several participating colleges, even if their preferred institution is not included in the list.

The impact of Hurricane Helene has added complexity to the application process for many seniors. The storm disrupted normal routines, leading to temporary school closures in Asheville and western North Carolina, although classes have resumed on altered schedules. The hurricane has also affected internet and cell service reliability, creating additional challenges for students attempting to complete their college applications.

Despite these disruptions, Asheville High School seniors are adapting to the educational challenges while continuing with their college planning. In response to these issues, college admissions counselors have stepped up to provide support, offering assistance with writing essays and completing financial aid forms during this transitionary period.

Amid the heightened stress around college admissions, many students are facing challenges such as canceled SAT test dates, which has forced some seniors, like Abe Garry, to adjust their application timelines. Furthermore, students are experiencing emotional strain, with one senior, Caroline Barton, noting feelings of survivor’s guilt as they navigate the aftermath of the hurricane.

On a positive note, Nathan Flaherty has highlighted the benefits of community volunteering amidst the pressures of college applications, providing a silver lining to the current situation. Additionally, the hurricane’s impact has led some students to reconsider their future career paths, with an increased interest in emergency management and related professions that would allow them to help communities during crises.

Conclusion

As colleges and universities in North Carolina prepare for College Application Week, they are providing critical support to students, especially those affected by Hurricane Helene. The waived application fees serve as a vital opportunity for seniors to advance their education and prepare for their futures amidst ongoing challenges.

FAQ

What is College Application Week in North Carolina?

College Application Week in North Carolina is scheduled for Oct. 20-26, offering an opportunity for high school seniors to apply to many state colleges and universities for free as part of the “Countdown to College” initiative.

How can students apply to colleges during this week?

Students can submit applications online via the CFNC Application Hub, which also allows them to request free high school transcript submissions to participating colleges.

What schools are participating in the fee waiver?

A complete list of colleges that are waiving application fees can be found on the CFNC website.

How has Hurricane Helene affected students’ ability to apply?

Those affected by Hurricane Helene are facing difficulties in completing college applications due to disruptions caused by the storm, including unreliable internet and cell service.

What support is available for seniors during this time?

College admissions counselors have offered assistance in writing essays and completing financial aid forms despite closures.

Key Features of College Application Week

Feature	Details
Dates	Oct. 20-26
Free Applications	Participation schools will waive application fees
Submission Platform	CFNC Application Hub
Support Services	College admissions counselors available for assistance
Impact of Hurricane Helene	Disruptions affecting application completion