The cost of college can be overwhelming, but the Tennessee Promise Scholarship aims to make higher education accessible and affordable for everyone in Tennessee. This scholarship provides high school graduates the opportunity to attend community colleges or technical schools tuition-free. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Tennessee Promise Scholarship, including its benefits, how to apply, and the best schools to consider. Whether you’re a student or a parent looking for financial aid options, this guide will help you navigate your way to a debt-free college education!
What is the Tennessee Promise Scholarship?
The Tennessee Promise Scholarship is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers tuition and mandatory fees not covered by the Pell Grant, the HOPE Scholarship, or the Tennessee Student Assistance Award. This program is open to all high school graduates in Tennessee who meet the eligibility requirements. It provides up to five semesters of free tuition at any of Tennessee’s community colleges, technical schools, or universities offering an associate degree program.
Benefits of the Tennessee Promise Scholarship
- Free Tuition : The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition and mandatory fees at eligible schools, making college education accessible without financial burdens.
- Wide Range of Schools : Students can choose from over 40 community colleges, technical schools, and universities in Tennessee.
- Mentorship Program : Each student is paired with a mentor who provides guidance and support throughout the college application process and beyond.
- Job Market Preparation : Many programs available under the Tennessee Promise focus on technical skills and career readiness, helping students enter the job market with practical experience.
- Promotes Community Engagement : Students are required to complete eight hours of community service each semester, fostering a sense of civic responsibility.
How to Apply for the Tennessee Promise Scholarship
1. Complete the Tennessee Promise Application
Visit the Tennessee Promise Application Portal and submit your application by the deadline, usually around November 1st of your senior year in high school.
2. File the FAFSA
Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by February 1st. This is crucial for determining your eligibility for additional financial aid.
3. Attend Mandatory Meetings
You must attend two mandatory meetings led by your assigned mentor. These meetings will provide valuable information and support throughout the process.
4. Complete Community Service
Perform at least eight hours of community service before each semester begins. This is a requirement to maintain your scholarship eligibility.
5. Enroll Full-Time
You must enroll in a full-time program at an eligible institution by the fall semester following high school graduation.
Top 15 Tennessee Promise-Eligible Colleges and Programs
1. Pellissippi State Community College
- Description: Offers a wide range of associate degree programs in fields such as engineering, business, and healthcare.
- Use Case: Best for students seeking a versatile education in a supportive community.
- Advantages: Strong transfer pathways to four-year universities.
- Disadvantages: Limited on-campus housing options.
2. Nashville State Community College
- Description: Provides diverse programs in arts, business, and technology.
- Use Case: Ideal for students looking for flexible class schedules and online learning options.
- Advantages: Multiple campus locations across Nashville.
- Disadvantages: Larger student population may limit individualized attention.
3. Chattanooga State Community College
- Description: Known for its technical programs and strong partnerships with local industries.
- Use Case: Best for students interested in engineering technology and healthcare.
- Advantages: Excellent job placement rates in technical fields.
- Disadvantages: Limited options for non-technical majors.
4. Volunteer State Community College
- Description: Offers programs in education, healthcare, and business.
- Use Case: Suitable for students planning to transfer to a four-year university.
- Advantages: Small class sizes and strong academic support services.
- Disadvantages: Limited on-campus amenities.
5. Motlow State Community College
- Description: Provides programs in advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology.
- Use Case: Ideal for students pursuing a career in high-demand technical fields.
- Advantages: Cutting-edge facilities and industry partnerships.
- Disadvantages: Limited extracurricular activities.
6. Roane State Community College
- Description: Offers a broad range of programs in arts, sciences, and technology.
- Use Case: Best for students seeking a well-rounded education with strong transfer options.
- Advantages: Multiple campus locations and online learning options.
- Disadvantages: Limited specialized programs.
7. Walters State Community College
- Description: Known for its nursing and healthcare programs.
- Use Case: Ideal for students pursuing careers in healthcare.
- Advantages: High NCLEX pass rates for nursing students.
- Disadvantages: Limited programs outside of healthcare.
8. Columbia State Community College
- Description: Offers programs in business, technology, and the arts.
- Use Case: Best for students looking for a balance between academics and extracurricular activities.
- Advantages: Strong student life and support services.
- Disadvantages: Smaller campus size.
9. Jackson State Community College
- Description: Provides comprehensive programs in business, healthcare, and technology.
- Use Case: Ideal for students looking for a community-focused learning environment.
- Advantages: Strong community ties and job placement support.
- Disadvantages: Limited advanced degree options.
10. Cleveland State Community College
- Description: Offers associate degrees in a variety of fields including education and technology.
- Use Case: Best for students who want to transfer to a four-year institution.
- Advantages: High transfer rate to universities.
- Disadvantages: Limited campus facilities.
11. Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Description: Known for its programs in business, criminal justice, and technology.
- Use Case: Suitable for students looking for urban campus experience.
- Advantages: Multiple campus locations in Memphis.
- Disadvantages: Limited parking availability.
12. Northeast State Community College
- Description: Offers degrees in aviation, healthcare, and business.
- Use Case: Ideal for students interested in unique programs like aviation.
- Advantages: Specialized programs with strong industry connections.
- Disadvantages: Rural location may not appeal to everyone.
13. Dyersburg State Community College
- Description: Provides programs in healthcare, business, and technology.
- Use Case: Best for students seeking a small, close-knit community.
- Advantages: Personalized attention and small class sizes.
- Disadvantages: Limited program variety.
14. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT)
- Description: Offers short-term technical programs in fields such as welding, HVAC, and automotive technology.
- Use Case: Ideal for students looking to enter the workforce quickly with a technical certification.
- Advantages: Fast-track programs with high job placement rates.
- Disadvantages: Limited to technical fields.
15. Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) – Dual Enrollment Program
- Description: Offers dual enrollment opportunities for high school students to earn college credits while completing high school.
- Use Case: Best for students who want to get a head start on their college education.
- Advantages: Earn college credits in high school.
- Disadvantages: Requires balancing high school and college workload.
Comparison Table: Tennessee Promise-Eligible Colleges
| College Name | Programs Offered | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pellissippi State Community College | Engineering, Business, Healthcare | Strong transfer pathways | Limited on-campus housing |
| Nashville State Community College | Arts, Business, Technology | Flexible class schedules | Large student population |
| Chattanooga State Community College | Engineering Technology, Healthcare | Excellent job placement rates | Limited non-technical programs |
| Volunteer State Community College | Education, Healthcare, Business | Small class sizes, strong support | Limited on-campus amenities |
| Motlow State Community College | Advanced Manufacturing, Healthcare | Cutting-edge facilities | Limited extracurricular activities |
| Roane State Community College | Arts, Sciences, Technology | Multiple campus locations | Limited specialized programs |
| Walters State Community College | Nursing, Healthcare | High NCLEX pass rates | Limited non-healthcare programs |
| Columbia State Community College | Business, Technology, Arts | Strong student life | Smaller campus size |
| Jackson State Community College | Business, Healthcare, Technology | Strong community ties | Limited advanced degrees |
| Cleveland State Community College | Education, Technology | High transfer rate | Limited campus facilities |
| Southwest Tennessee Community College | Business, Criminal Justice, Technology | Urban campus experience | Limited parking |
| Northeast State Community College | Aviation, Healthcare, Business | Specialized programs | Rural location |
| Dyersburg State Community College | Healthcare, Business, Technology | Personalized attention | Limited program variety |
| Tennessee College of Applied Technology | Welding, HVAC, Automotive | Fast-track programs | Limited to technical fields |
| Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) | Dual Enrollment | Earn college credits in high school | Requires balancing workload |
How to Get Started with the Tennessee Promise Scholarship
- Check Eligibility and Requirements : Visit the Tennessee Promise website to review eligibility criteria and program requirements.
- Submit Your Application : Complete the Tennessee Promise application and FAFSA by the designated deadlines.
- Attend Mentor Meetings : Join the mandatory meetings for guidance and support.
- Complete Community Service : Fulfill the community service requirements to maintain eligibility.
- Enroll in an Eligible College : Choose from the list of eligible colleges and enroll full-time for the upcoming semester.
FAQs
1. What is the deadline to apply for the Tennessee Promise Scholarship?
The application deadline is typically November 1st of your senior year in high school.
2. Can adult learners apply for the Tennessee Promise Scholarship?
Yes, adult learners who have not previously earned a degree are eligible through the Tennessee Reconnect program.
3. Does the Tennessee Promise cover all educational expenses?
The scholarship covers tuition and mandatory fees not covered by other financial aid, but does not cover books, supplies, or other non-mandatory fees.
4. What happens if I fail to complete the community service requirement?
Failing to complete the required community service hours will result in the loss of the scholarship for the upcoming semester.
5. Can I transfer to a four-year university after completing the Tennessee Promise program?
Yes, many students transfer to a four-year university after completing an associate degree at a community college.
Ready to start your debt-free college journey? Apply Now and take advantage of the Tennessee Promise Scholarship!