I misplaced my 2006 tax return forms an I need them for college, how can I get a copy of them without paying the IRS?

You can get a transcript of your filing for free - it provides all the info but does not look like the paper return. If you want an actual copy of your return you will have to pay. I suggest you ask your college if a transcript will suffice.

Here's the procedure:
Frequently Asked Questions - 1.6 Copies & Transcripts