Tennessee scholarships provide generous financial support for both in-state and out-of-state students going to school in the Volunteer State, making a college education more affordable for the majority of families!
There are approximately 42 colleges and universities in Tennessee. In addition to 13 community colleges, University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Tennessee Technological University (Tennessee Tech) , Tennessee State University, Vanderbilt University, Franklin University, Bethel University. Fisk University, Middle Tennessee University, Belmont University, and Lipscomb University are all based in the state.
Whether you're a high school senior, current college student, graduate student, or returning adult learner, there are numerous funding opportunities available. These grants and scholarships are awarded based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, athletics, talent, and academic achievement. Understanding the options available can help you maximize your chances of receiving a scholarship or grant.
$25,000
Award Amount
10
Awards
Apr 28
Deadline
In partnership with UNCF, Smartwool offers one $2,500 Go Far Feel Good Scholarship to college sophomores and juniors who attend a partner HBCU in either Tennessee or North Carolina.
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$10,000
Award Amount
10
Awards
Apr 28
Deadline
Tennessee resident/U.S. citizen/eligible non-citizen/students who graduate from an eligible high School, homeschool, or earn a GED/HISET (prior to 19th birthday) can receive an award at an eligible postsecondary institution toward tuition and mandatory fees after all other gift aid has been first applied. Students must attend mandatory meetings and participate in a mentoring program. College students must attend full-time, continue to participate in the mentoring program, and perform 8 hours of community service prior to each term the award is received. This scholarship program began in the 2015-16 academic year.
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$2,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
This award is available to Tennessee residents who enroll in a certificate or diploma program at a Tennessee Technology Center (TTC). All eligible students who apply on time are automatically considered for this award.
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$20,238
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
High school seniors and transfer students who are not residents of Idaho and are planning to enroll at Lewis-Clark State College for the first time are eligible for this award. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and must plan to enroll full time.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 1
Deadline
This award is available to Arkansas graduate students who are studying dentistry, veterinary medicine, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatric medicine, or chiropractic medicine at an eligible out-of-state institution.
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$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
May 1
Deadline
Undergraduate students enrolled in six or more credit hours with a minimum of 30 semester or 45 quarter hours still to be completed are eligible for this award. Students must be enrolled or accepted in a two-year or greater air traffic control program at an institution appproved and/or listed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
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$4,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This award is available for Tennessee resident undergraduate students who are attending a public or an eligible non-public postsecondary educational institution in Tennessee. Students must enroll on a half-time basis or greater and must demonstrate financial need of having and EFC of $2,100 or less.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jul 15
Deadline
This award is available for Tennessee resident students who are planning to attend a Tennessee public or private college or university. Students must be the dependent child of a Tennessee law enforcement officer, fireman, or an emergency medical service technician who has been killed or totally and permanently disabled due to an incident that occurred in the line of duty while employed in Tennessee.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
U.S. and international students currently enrolled in an associate or bachelor's degree program in manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, manufacturing technology, or a closely related field of study are eligible for this award. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher and preference will be given to Tennessee residents, then students who attend the University of Memphis, and finally students who plan to study in Tennessee.
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$3,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Dec 1
Deadline
This award is for U.S. undergraduate students who attend or are planning to attend Tennessee Technological University. The applicant must plan to work in the heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) profession, and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Jun 30
Deadline
This scholarship is available for Korean-American students who are currently enrolled as a high school junior or senior, as an undergraduate, or as a graduate student. Applicants must reside in one of the following states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, or Tennessee.
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$12,000
Award Amount
12
Awards
Feb 10
Deadline
This is a writing contest for residents of Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and North Carolina. To enter, students may submit their work in one of four categories: fiction, poetry, nonfiction or drama. Applicants should review the website for the requirements to enter their specific writing category.
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$1,050
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 1
Deadline
This award is available to U.S. and international undergraduate and graduate students who are reside in an eligible Southern state. Applicants must major in nursing and have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
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$11,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available to U.S. high school seniors who have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher and attend Sequoyah High School in Madisonville, Tennessee.
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$6,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available for high school seniors currently attending Anderson County High School in Clinton, Tenn. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.0 or higher.
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$4,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This award is available for high school seniors graduating from Clinton High School in Tennessee who plan to enroll full-time in a four-year college or university. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.8 or higher and major in business, engineering, or a medical field.
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$32,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available to graduating high school seniors currently attending Johnson County High School in Mountain City, Tenn. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher.
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$2,700
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available for graduates from Oneida High School in Oneida, Tennessee.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available for high school seniors graduating from Anderson County High School in Clinton, Tenn. Selection of recipients will be based on leadership and achievment in arts, athletics, citizenship, community/religious service and academics.
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available to U.S. high school seniors graduating from Collierville High School in Shelby County, Tenn. The applicant must plan to become a professional educator or pursue a career in the medical field.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 1
Deadline
U.S. and Canadian citizens who will have earned no more than 12 hours towards a Master of Library Science degree by June of the award year are eligible for this award. Students must be members of a principal minority group; attend an ALA-accredited school; and plan to enter the library automation field.
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$4,000
Award Amount
4
Awards
Apr 1
Deadline
HBCUConnect.com encourages minority students from all around the nation to pursue bachelors degrees at U.S. historically black colleges and universities. Applicants must be minority graduating high school seniors, transfer, or full time undergraduate students attending historically black college or university.
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$20,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Feb 21
Deadline
This award is for U.S. high school juniors and seniors who participate in a mathematical modeling challenge as part of a school-based group.
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$2,763
Award Amount
31
Awards
Sep 1
Deadline
This award is available to Tennessee residents who are planning to attend an eligible postsecondary institution in Tennessee. Students must be a foster child and meet the high school requirements for the Tennessee HOPE scholarship or the Tennessee HOPE Access grant.
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$2,431
Award Amount
735
Awards
Sep 1
Deadline
This award is available to Tennessee high school seniors who are planning to attend an eligible postsecondary institution in Tennessee. The student must have a grade point average of 2.75 or higher and a SAT score or 860-970 or an ACT score of 18-20. The student's parents' (or independent student's and spouse's) adjusted gross income must be $36,000 or less.
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Cost of Tennessee Colleges
Before we explore all the grants and scholarships that help make a college education more affordable in Tennessee, it is important to understand the cost of attending a college or university in the state. For 2024-25, in-state tuition and fees for the University of Tennessee at Knoxville are $6,906 per semester. For out-of-state students, tuition and fees are $16,628. At Tennessee State University, in-state students can expect to pay $4,674 in tuition and fees per semester while out-of-state students will pay $12,246 per semester. In-state tuition for Tennessee Tech is $12,070 per semester, $14,170 for out-of-state students and $20,002 for international students. Tuition and fees to attend private colleges and universities in Tennessee vary.
Types of Scholarships Available in Tennessee
Merit-Based Scholarships: These grants and scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence, exceptional talent, or leadership qualities. They often require a high grade point average, excellent standardized test scores, and/or other achievements in specific areas like the arts, sports, or leadership.
Need-Based Scholarships: These grants and scholarships are awarded based on financial need, typically as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students from low-income families or those with significant unmet financial need can benefit from these types of awards.
Athletic Scholarships: Student-athletes who excel in a sport may qualify for grants scholarships offered by colleges and universities. These awards can cover partial or full tuition and are typically renewable each year based on continued athletic participation and in certain cases academic performance.
Talent-Based Scholarships: Scholarships for students with unique talents, such as music, art, or writing, are available through various organizations as well as from certain colleges and universities. These awards often require the submission of a portfolio, audition, or original work.
Merit-Based Scholarships in Tennessee
Merit-based scholarships in Tennessee are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or possess unique talents. Here are some prominent merit-based scholarships available in Tennessee:
Ned McWherter Scholars Program: This prestigious scholarship awards $6,000 annually to Tennessee residents with a minimum 3.75 GPA and minimum test scores of 32 (ACT) or 1430 (SAT) who plan to attend a college or university based in Tennessee on a full-time basis. This is a competitive scholarship
Tennessee General Assembly Merit Scholarship: This merit-based award provides up to $500 per semester and serves as a supplement to the HOPE Scholarship for students with a minimum 3.75 GPA and minimum test scores of 29 on the ACT and 1330 on the SAT.
Scarlett Family Foundation Scholarship: This scholarship supports students pursuing a business or STEM degree at a Tennessee college or university. Awards range from $2,500 to $15,000 per year.
Scholarships for High School Students in Tennessee
High school students in Tennessee have access to a number of scholarships that can help reduce the cost of college. These scholarships often reward students for their academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and leadership skills. Here are a few notable scholarships for high school students:
Tennessee Promise Scholarship: This last-dollar scholarship covers tuition and fees for recent high school graduates attending one of Tennessee’s 13 community or applied technical colleges. To be eligible, students must meet certain GPA and community service requirements In addition to providing scholarship dollars, Tennessee Promise provides recipients with valuable mentorship. To be eligible for Tennessee Promise, recipients must complete their FAFSA and apply for Tennessee Promise.
Nashville Songwriting Scholarship: The Nashville Songwriting Scholarship awards a scholarship of $5,000 to an aspiring songwriter. The scholarship is open to high school students between the ages of 17 to 24 who submit an original song in genres such as Americana, blues, bluegrass, contemporary Christian, country, folk, and roots; and are attending a two or four year college degree.
Tennessee HOPE Scholarship: The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship is available to Tennessee high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA or minimum test scores of 21 on the ACT or 1060 on the SAT. The scholarship is available to students attending an eligible college or university in Tennessee. Awards of up to $2,250 per semester are available. Awards vary based on type of school a recipient is attending and the student’s year in school.
The Minority Teaching Fellows Program: This scholarship program provides $5,000 per year to Tennessee students of color pursuing a teaching career in Tennessee. Recipients must commit to teaching in a Tennessee PK-12 school for a specified period after graduation.
The Tennessee Teaching Scholars Program: This scholarship program provides $5,000 per year to Tennessee students pursuing a teaching career in Tennessee. Recipients must commit to teaching in a Tennessee PK-12 school for a specified period after graduation. To be eligible, students must have earned a 2.75 GPA in high school.
Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarships: These $500 scholarship awards are available to graduate students pursuing degrees in business, economics, or related fields and are based on academic merit and professional potential.
Scholarships for Graduate Students in Tennessee
Graduate students in Tennessee also have access to scholarships and grants that can help offset the cost of pursuing a master or doctoral degree These programs are often specific to certain fields of study and may require students to demonstrate academic excellence or professional potential. Examples include:
Tennessee HOPE Scholarship for Graduate Students: While the HOPE Scholarship is primarily for undergraduates, some funds may be available to graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in eligible fields. Awards of up to $5,700 per year are available to eligible students attending eligible institutions in Tennessee.
Scholarships for Adult Learners in Tennessee
Scholarships are available to Tennessee adult learners returning to college,specifically designed to support their educational journey. These scholarships cater to non-traditional students who are often balancing work, family, and returning to school:
Tennessee Reconnect Grant: This grant is available to adults who have not yet earned their associate or bachelor’s degree. If you attend a public college or university in Tennessee, Tennessee Reconnect acts as a “last dollar scholarship” meaning it covers any remaining tuition and fees after all other state and federal financial aid you are eligible for has been applied. Awards may also be available if you are an adult learner pursuing your degree at an eligible private college or university in Tennessee.
School Grants for Adult Learners: Many Tennessee colleges and universities offer grants specifically for adult learners and non-traditional students. Schools often consider factors such as work experience, financial need, community involvement, and life challenges – in determining eligibility and grant amount. Colleges and universities will often also award grants to encourage adult learners to attend their institution.
Grants for Students in Tennessee
In addition to scholarships, Tennessee students can also apply for grants to help pay for college. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid and are typically awarded based on financial need:
Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA): This need-based grant is available to Tennessee residents attending eligible institutions. Awards of up to $4,000 per year are available to eligible students attending four year private colleges and universities in Tennessee and up to $ 2,000 for students attending eligible public colleges and universities as well as private technical schools in Tennessee. Grant amounts do vary based on financial need and the availability of state funds.
Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant: Available to students attending the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, this grant provides up to $2,000 per academic year.
Pell Grants: While not specific to Tennessee, the Pell Grant is a federal need-based grant that provides up to $7,395 in grant awards in 2024-25 to low-income students. Tennessee students can use Pell Grant funds to attend any eligible college or university in the state or nation.
Scholarships Exclusively for Tennessee Residents
If you’re a Tennessee resident, you’re in luck. Tennessee offers several scholarships specifically for in-state students:
Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship: Designed for students with intellectual disabilities, this scholarship provides up to $2,250 per year for Tennessee students attending eligible Tennessee colleges and universities.
Tennessee Dependent Children Scholarship Program: This scholarship is available to children of Tennessee law enforcement officers, firefighters, or EMTs who were killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty in Tennessee. The program provides awards of up to full tuition coverage at eligible Tennessee colleges and universities.
Scholarships for Out-of-State Students
Tennessee colleges and universities also offer scholarships to attract out-of-state students to pursue their higher education in the Volunteer State. Here are some examples:
University of Tennessee Knoxville Explore Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is available to incoming out-of-state freshmen with a minimum 3.6 GPA and test scores of 26 (ACT) or 1230 (SAT). Awards range from $3,000 to $6,500 per year, renewable for up to four years. Actual award amounts are based on GPA and test scores.
Middle Tennessee State University Freshman Guaranteed Scholarships: Out-of-state students with a 3.5 GPA and a minimum ACT score of 22 may be eligible for scholarship awards ranging from $3,500 to $8,000 per year, to attend Middle Tennessee State University.
International Merit Scholarships: This scholarship provides international students interested in attending East Tennessee State University with merit scholarships up to $9.000 per year. To be eligible, recipients must have at least a 3.0 grade point average.
Tennessee Private Scholarships
While Tennessee has a multitude of state supported grant and scholarship programs, not all students will be eligible. For those who are eligible, these generous programs will not always cover the full cost of your education and often will not cover room and board, books, transportation, and other substantial costs you will face as a college student. The same is true with federal grants and institutional grants and scholarships. This is why private scholarships are so important for students to consider.
Tennessee students can access thousands of private scholarships. These scholarships vary widely in criteria and eligibility, offering opportunities for students pursuing higher education at any accredited college or university nationwide. You should plan to apply broadly for as many private scholarships as you may qualify.
Tips for Securing Scholarships and Grants In Tennessee
Navigating the scholarship application process can be competitive but following these tips can enhance your chances of success:
- Start Early: Begin researching and applying for scholarships well ahead of deadlines, as many have early submission requirements.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and application criteria using a spreadsheet or planner.
- Personalize Your Approach: Tailor your essays and personal statements to highlight your achievements, goals, and how they align with each scholarship’s mission and unique requirements.
- Recommendations: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or community leaders who can speak to your unique qualifications.
- Showcase Your Achievements: Emphasize your academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, athletic abilities, unique talents, interests, leadership roles, and community service in your applications.
- FAFSA Completion: Many grants and scholarships in Tennessee require applicants to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is also essential for federal grants and other financial aid programs including grants and scholarships you might receive from your college. You should complete the FAFSA as early as you can in your senior year of high school and/or before you plan to start your degree program.
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List
Written by Dave Moniz
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Edited by Unigo Staff