As an expert in the field of higher education, I can provide you with an in-depth analysis of college application fees, which are an important aspect of the college admissions process. The cost of applying to colleges and universities can be a significant financial consideration for students and their families, especially when applying to multiple institutions.

In the United States, college application fees vary widely, and they are typically charged to cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. These fees can range from as low as $30 to over $100, depending on the institution. It's important to note that the application fee is separate from any other costs associated with attending college, such as tuition, room and board, and other expenses.

Stanford University, which is renowned for its competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of just 6% in 2013, has set its application fee at $90. This fee is notably high compared to other institutions and is the highest among the 650 top colleges listed by Forbes. However, it's crucial to understand that the application fee is just one part of the overall application process and does not necessarily reflect the quality of education or the selectivity of the institution.

Other elite institutions also have high application fees.
Duke University charges $85, Boston University charges $80, Brandeis University charges $75, and Hamilton College charges $70. These fees are indicative of the competitive nature of admissions at these schools and the resources they allocate to reviewing applications.

It's worth mentioning that some colleges and universities offer fee waivers for students who demonstrate financial need. This is an important consideration for students who may be deterred by the cost of applying to multiple schools. Fee waivers can help level the playing field and ensure that financial constraints do not limit a student's access to higher education.

In conclusion, while the most expensive college application fee as of the latest available data seems to be at Stanford University at $90, it's essential for students to consider the broader context of college admissions. The application fee is just one factor among many that students must weigh when deciding where to apply and attend college.

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At Stanford, which had an acceptance rate of just 6% in 2013, the admissions office has settled on $90, the highest of any school on Forbes' list of 650 top colleges. Other elite institutions have similarly high fees. Duke's is $85. Boston University's is $80, Brandeis' is $75 and Hamilton's is $70.Aug 28, 2014read more >>