University Applications Open Now: Zero Application Fee List
This post will be updated from time to time, not a finished list yet. Application windows and fee waivers change every intake and vary by department, so entries below need to be verified and filled in with real, current information before publishing. Treat the row marked “e.g.” as a placeholder for upcoming opening.
Many departments waive the application fee entirely for applicants who’ve already secured a professor’s agreement to fund them as a Research Assistant, and some universities run limited-time fee-free windows to attract international applicants. It’s worth checking regularly rather than assuming the standard fee always applies.
Currently Open (Last checked: [September 12, 2026])
| University | Program / Department | Application Window | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gwangju Institute of Science & Technology (GIST) | All Departments (Check university website for full list of departments) | Sep 7, 10:00 – Oct 7, 17:00, 2026 (KST) | https://www.gist.ac.kr/iadm/html/sub05/0502.html?mode=V&no=222702 | Results Notification : Dec 4, 2026 ; Enrollment deadline : Jan 4, 2027 |
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How to Verify a Fee Waiver Yourself
- Check the university’s official graduate admissions portal directly — fee policies are usually listed on the application page itself, not buried in a PDF handbook.
- Check the specific department/graduate school page, since fee policies can differ by department even within the same university.
- Ask your professor directly once you have a funding agreement — many PIs can request an application fee waiver for their incoming RA students, but only if you ask before you submit, not after.
- Screenshot or save confirmation of any waiver you’re told about via email — admissions offices don’t always apply it automatically, and you may need to show proof later.
Keeping This List Updated
Since this kind of information goes stale fast, the “Last checked” date every time you revisit this post is the recent updates. I will cancel out or remove any row once that application window has closed.