Richmond Public Schools students can apply to historically black colleges and universities for free, thanks to a partnership between RVA Future, the RPS Education Foundation and Common Black College Application.

Through the CBCA, students nationwide can apply to more than 50 HBCUs for a one-time $35 fee.

With the partnership, the fee is now waived for RPS students. City students can apply to multiple HBCUs — local and out-of-state — at no cost and increase their opportunities to receive college admissions offers, as well as scholarship and financial aid assistance.

The CBCA is accepting applications for admission until April, officials said. Students interested in applying to HBCUs should see their school counselors or RVA Future Center director for the waiver code.

“RPS students complete an average of three to five college applications during their senior year,” said Tracy Brower, program manager for RVA Future.

“This is a great opportunity because it helps to alleviate the financial burden of applying to college while expanding the types of schools our students are applying to.”

The partnership’s goal is to assist students in overcoming the financial barriers that prevent some students from applying to colleges and universities.

“It is imperative students have options when deciding what college to attend and how their education can be financed. This partnership will help to provide those options,” said CBCA founder Robert Mason.

Details: Richmond Public Schools, (804) 780-7100, or https://commonblackcollegeapp.com/.