Scholarships in Tennessee: Types, Application Tips, and Top Universities

Financing your education in Tennessee is easier with the abundance of scholarships available for students. From merit-based awards to need-based grants, there are plenty of opportunities to reduce the cost of college.

This guide breaks down the different types of scholarships in Tennessee, shares essential application tips, and highlights top universities in Tennessee that offer robust financial aid options. Whether you’re a high school senior or a current college student, this resource will help you find and apply for scholarships that align with your goals. Take the first step toward an affordable education today.

Types of Scholarships in Tennessee

When exploring scholarship opportunities in Tennessee, students will find a variety of options tailored to different needs and achievements. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types of scholarships available:

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Merit-Based Scholarships in Tennessee

These scholarships reward students for academic excellence, exceptional talents, or leadership qualities. Eligibility often requires a high GPA, strong standardized test scores, or notable achievements in specific areas.

For instance, the University of Tennessee offers merit scholarships to first-year students who demonstrate high academic performance.

Need-Based Scholarships in Tennessee

Designed to assist students from lower-income families, need-based scholarships consider financial circumstances. Applicants typically must demonstrate financial need through forms like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA) is an example, providing financial aid to eligible undergraduate students who are residents of Tennessee.

Field of Study Scholarships in Tennessee

Some scholarships are designated for students pursuing specific careers or majors, such as education, healthcare, or engineering. These awards aim to support students entering high-demand professions within the state.

For example, the Tennessee Teaching Scholars Program offers financial assistance to students committed to teaching in Tennessee schools.

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Demographic-Specific Scholarships in Tennessee

Certain scholarships focus on supporting students from specific backgrounds or communities, including minority groups, women, or first-generation college students. These programs strive to promote diversity and inclusion in higher education.

The B. J. Dean Scholarship Fund, for instance, is for women preparing for full-time Christian ministry and who are residents of Tennessee or Texas.

Institution-Specific Scholarships in Tennessee

Many Tennessee colleges and universities offer scholarships exclusive to their students. These can be based on merit, need, or other criteria set by the institution. Prospective students should consult the financial aid offices of their chosen schools for available opportunities.

For example, the University of Tennessee provides various scholarships, including the Orange & White Scholarship for incoming first-year, in-state students with a minimum 3.6 GPA.

Community and Local Scholarships in Tennessee

Local organizations, businesses, and foundations often offer scholarships to students within their communities. These awards may have specific eligibility requirements related to residency, school attendance, or community involvement.

For instance, the Stegall Charitable Educational Foundation Scholarship is available to high school students, high school graduates, or existing college students in Tennessee.

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Merit-Based Scholarships in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a variety of merit-based scholarships to recognize and support students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. Here are some notable programs:

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship

Funded by the Tennessee Education Lottery, the HOPE Scholarship provides financial assistance to high-achieving students attending eligible postsecondary institutions within the state. To qualify, students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA or a composite ACT score of at least 21.

The award amounts vary, offering up to $2,250 per full-time enrollment semester for freshmen and sophomores, and up to $2,850 for juniors and seniors.

General Assembly Merit Scholarship (GAMS)

As a supplement to the HOPE Scholarship, GAMS targets students with superior academic credentials. Eligibility requires a minimum 3.75 weighted GPA and an ACT score of at least 29. Recipients receive additional financial support to cover educational expenses.

Ned McWherter Scholars Program

This prestigious scholarship awards $6,000 annually to Tennessee residents who exhibit outstanding academic performance. Applicants must have a minimum 3.75 GPA and an ACT score of 29 or higher. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, provided recipients maintain the required academic standards.

Distinguished Tennessean Award

The University of Tennessee honors one top scholar from each of the state’s 95 counties with this award. It covers full tuition and mandatory fees for four years. Eligible students must have a minimum 3.2 weighted GPA and demonstrate significant community engagement.

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Chancellor’s Scholarships

Offered by the University of Tennessee, these merit-based scholarships include several categories such as Neyland Scholars and Roddy Scholars. Awards range from $5,000 to $7,000 annually and are renewable for up to four years. Selection criteria include academic excellence and leadership potential.

Institutional Merit Scholarships

Many Tennessee institutions, including Tennessee State University, provide merit-based scholarships to incoming students.

These awards are designed to attract and support students who have demonstrated high academic achievement and leadership skills. Prospective students should consult the financial aid offices of their chosen institutions for specific opportunities and application procedures.

Students interested in these scholarships should review the specific eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each program to maximize their opportunities for financial assistance.

Need-Based Scholarships in Tennessee

Tennessee offers several need-based scholarships to support students with financial challenges in pursuing higher education. Here are some notable programs:

Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA)

The TSAA provides financial aid to Tennessee residents attending eligible institutions within the state. Award amounts can reach up to $4,000 per academic year, depending on the type of institution and available funding.

To qualify, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible, as funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tennessee HOPE Access Grant

This grant is designed for students who may not meet the criteria for the HOPE Scholarship but demonstrate financial need and academic potential. Eligible students must have a minimum 2.75 GPA and an ACT score of at least 18. The award provides up to $2,250 per semester for full-time enrollment at eligible institutions.

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Aspire Award

The Aspire Award supplements the HOPE Scholarship for students with an adjusted gross income of $36,000 or less. Recipients receive an additional $1,500 per academic year, which can be used at eligible postsecondary institutions in Tennessee.

Tennessee Promise Scholarship

While primarily a last-dollar scholarship covering tuition and fees for recent high school graduates attending community or technical colleges, Tennessee Promise also benefits students with financial need by bridging the gap after other aid has been applied.

Participants must meet specific requirements, including completing the FAFSA, attending mandatory meetings, and performing community service.

Institution-Specific Need-Based Scholarships

Many Tennessee colleges and universities offer their own need-based scholarships. For example, Johnson University provides the Johnson Gap Scholarship to assist students with demonstrated financial need. The award amount is determined by the Financial Aid Office based on individual circumstances.

Students seeking need-based financial assistance in Tennessee should complete the FAFSA promptly and consult the financial aid offices of their chosen institutions to explore all available options

Minority Scholarships in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a variety of scholarships aimed at supporting minority students in their pursuit of higher education. Here are some notable programs:

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Minority Teaching Fellows Program

This scholarship provides $5,000 per year to minority students committed to becoming educators in Tennessee’s public schools. Recipients are required to teach in a Tennessee Pre K-12 public school for the number of years they received the award.

Eligibility criteria include being a Tennessee resident and a U.S. citizen, achieving a minimum GPA, and enrolling full-time in an eligible Tennessee institution.

Tennessee Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (TLSAMP)

TLSAMP is a collaborative effort among ten Tennessee colleges and universities aimed at increasing the number of underrepresented minority students earning undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The program offers various support initiatives, including scholarships, to enhance recruitment and retention.

Fred D. Brown, Jr. Minority Engineering Scholarship

Offered by the University of Tennessee’s Tickle College of Engineering, this scholarship awards minority students who demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding leadership. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens, maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00, and be enrolled in an engineering program.

Tennessee Doctoral Scholars Program

Administered by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission, this program aims to increase the number of minority students earning a Ph.D. in Tennessee.

It provides financial assistance, including an annual stipend of $20,000, for up to three years of graduate study. Participating institutions waive tuition and mandatory fees for scholars.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Tennessee

Applying for scholarships in Tennessee may seem like a big task, but breaking it down into simple steps can make the process much more manageable. Here’s a guide on how to apply for scholarships in the state:

1. Research Available Scholarships
Start by identifying which scholarships you qualify for. Look at state-funded programs, school-specific scholarships, community organizations, and private foundations. Tennessee offers merit-based, need-based, minority-focused, and career-specific scholarships.

Resources like the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) website, university financial aid offices, and scholarship search engines can be helpful.

2. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
Many scholarships, especially need-based ones, require students to submit the FAFSA. This form determines your financial need and is used to allocate aid like the Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA) and the Aspire Award.

Completing the FAFSA early is crucial, as some awards are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

3. Check Eligibility Requirements
Each scholarship has unique criteria. Some require a certain GPA, while others look for financial need, community service, or specific areas of study. Review the requirements to ensure you qualify. For example, merit-based awards like the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship require a minimum 3.0 GPA or a 21 ACT score.

4. Gather Required Documents
Scholarship applications often require supporting documents. These may include:

• High school or college transcripts
• ACT or SAT scores
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders
• A personal essay or statement outlining your goals, background, and reasons for applying

5. Write a Standout Personal Essay
Many scholarship applications ask for an essay or personal statement. Use this as an opportunity to share your unique story, goals, and ambitions. Be specific about how the scholarship will impact your education and career plans. If the application has a prompt, be sure to address it directly.

6. Submit Applications Before Deadlines
Scholarship deadlines vary, and some are much earlier than others. Create a list of deadlines and track your progress for each scholarship. Missing a deadline could mean missing out on financial aid. For example, the deadline for the Tennessee Promise Scholarship is typically in November for high school seniors.

7. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
Don’t limit yourself to one or two applications. The more scholarships you apply for, the better your chances of receiving financial aid. Look for smaller, local scholarships, which often have less competition.

8. Follow Up on Your Application
After submitting your applications, you may receive requests for additional information or clarification. Check your email and phone regularly so you don’t miss any important updates from scholarship providers.

9. Keep Track of Award Notifications
If you’re awarded a scholarship, be aware of the next steps. Some scholarships require you to accept the award formally or provide proof of enrollment. You may also need to maintain a specific GPA or complete community service hours to keep the scholarship.

10. Reapply Each Year
Some scholarships, like the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship, are renewable, but you’ll need to meet eligibility criteria each year. Keep up with deadlines, academic requirements, and any renewal paperwork.

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Top Universities Offering Scholarships in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to several esteemed universities that offer a variety of scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. Here are some top institutions and the scholarship opportunities they provide:

University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK)

UTK offers the Orange & White Scholarship, providing $6,000 annually to incoming first-year, in-state students with a minimum 3.6 GPA. To be considered, students must apply for admission by December 15 of their senior year in high school.

Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt is renowned for its generous financial aid packages, including need-based scholarships that meet 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans. Additionally, Vanderbilt offers merit-based scholarships such as the Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship, which provides full tuition plus a one-time summer stipend for study abroad, research, or an immersive experience.

Belmont University

Belmont provides a range of merit-based scholarships for incoming freshmen, including the Academic Merit Scholarships, which are awarded based on high school GPA and standardized test scores. These scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters, provided the recipient maintains the required academic standards.

Rhodes College

Rhodes College offers the Cambridge Scholarship, a merit-based award for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and leadership. The scholarship provides significant financial support and is renewable for four years.

Sewanee: The University of the South

Sewanee offers the Ecce Quam Bonum (EQB) Scholarship, which recognizes students who have demonstrated a commitment to leadership, community engagement, and academic excellence. This scholarship provides varying amounts of financial support and is renewable for four years.

Lipscomb University

Lipscomb provides the Trustee Scholarship, a competitive merit-based award covering full tuition for students with exceptional academic records and leadership potential. Applicants are typically required to have a high GPA and standardized test scores.

East Tennessee State University (ETSU)

ETSU offers the Academic Performance Scholarship (APS) to incoming freshmen based on academic achievement. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship is renewable for up to eight semesters, contingent upon maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU)

MTSU provides the Presidential Scholarship, awarding $4,500 per year to students with a minimum 3.5 GPA and an ACT score of 25 or SAT score of 1200. This scholarship is renewable for up to four years, subject to academic performance.

Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech offers the Golden Opportunity Grant, a need-based scholarship for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Award amounts vary based on financial need and academic achievement.

Union University

Union provides the Academic Excellence Scholarship, awarding up to $10,000 annually to students with outstanding academic records. This scholarship is renewable for up to eight semesters, provided the recipient maintains the required GPA.

These universities are committed to making higher education accessible through various scholarship programs. Prospective students should visit the respective university websites for detailed information on eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.