I'm curious about free online community college opportunities available in Tennessee. How can I apply, and are there any particular requirements or steps I should follow to get started?
You're referring to an incredible opportunity known as Tennessee Promise. Tennessee residents who have graduated high school or have a GED/HiSET are eligible for two years of tuition-free attendance at a community or technical college through the Tennessee Promise program. Tennessee Promise is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers the remaining balance of your tuition and mandatory fees after all other student aid has been applied.
To apply to this program, follow these steps:
1. Fill out the Tennessee Promise Application: This step must be completed by November 1st of your senior year if you are in high school. If you are a non-traditional student or high school graduate, you should check the Tennessee Promise website for the corresponding deadline.
2. Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): The FAFSA form must be submitted by the February 1st following your application.
3. Attend two mandatory meetings: These meetings will provide details about the program and help you understand your responsibilities as a participant.
4. Complete Eight Hours of Community Service: Each semester, before the start of the term, you are required to complete 8 hours of community service. This service must be completed and submitted to Tennessee Promise prior to the start of each term.
5. Maintain a 2.0 GPA: To maintain your eligibility for the Tennessee Promise scholarship, you should maintain at least a 2.0 GPA in college.
Do take note that even though it's called 'free', there are still costs associated with college outside of tuition which Tennessee Promise does not cover, such as textbooks or transportation. That being said, this scholarship offers a significant financial relief for students, making college much more affordable.
To apply for community colleges, you will apply directly through each college's website. Most community colleges in Tennessee offer an online application process, but the specific requirements (such as high school transcripts, test scores, essays, etc.) vary by school, so it'll be important to check each school's admissions page for their specific requirements and deadlines.
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