I'm curious about financial aid options for adults returning to college in Tennessee. Are there specific scholarships or grants that cater to this demographic, and how competitive are they? Is there a good place to look for more resources?
Absolutely! The state of Tennessee offers various scholarships and grants specifically for adult learners returning to college or starting college later in life. One notable one is the Tennessee Reconnect Grant, a last-dollar grant supported by the Tennessee Lottery for Education. It covers tuition and mandatory fees for eligible adults attending an eligible institution. This program aims to promote adult education by eliminating tuition as a barrier.
As for competitiveness, it really depends on the specific scholarship or grant. Some may require you to fulfill certain academic or income criteria, while others may have additional requirements. For the Tennessee Reconnect Grant, you just need to be a Tennessee resident, enroll in classes part-time, and not already hold an associate or bachelor's degree, among a few other criteria.
Regarding more resources, I'd recommend starting with the Tennessee Higher Education Commission's website and also checking out the financial aid pages of the colleges you're interested in. They often provide extensive lists of available scholarships and grants.
Lastly, don't forget to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Not only is it a requirement for many scholarships and grants, but it can also make you eligible for additional federal and state aid. Remember: never limit your search to one source and apply to as many scholarships and grants as you're eligible for. Good luck!
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