One of the grants available is the Helping Heroes Grant, which provides money to veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The grant is worth $1,000 per semester and can be used at 2- or 4-year institutions. To be eligible, you must have been honorably discharged and be a Tennessee resident for at least one year prior to applying.
The Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant is offered for students who attend technical school. The grant is worth $2,000 but may not exceed the cost of enrollment. Recipients must be a resident for at least a year prior to applying and can enroll in either a certificate or degree program at a Tennessee Technology Center.
The Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA) Program is available to students with an Expected Family Contribution of $2100 or less. You can receive the award for up to four years of study as a full- or part- time student. The amount awarded depends on several factors, including the policies of the institution you attend and your expected cost of enrollment.
There are two HOPE Grants for Tennessee students. The HOPE Access Grant is worth $2,750 to 4- year students and $1,750 to 2-year students. You must have a 2.75 GPA, an 18 to 20 on the ACT, and have income less than $36,000 per year to qualify. The HOPE Foster Child Tuition Grant awards grants to Tennessee foster children. The amount awarded varies and can be granted for up to four years of postsecondary attendance.
The Duel Enrollment Grant Program helps high school students obtain college credits. The grant provides up to $300 per semester, or $600 per year for lower-level college courses. In order to qualify, you must be a high school junior or senior and attend an eligible postsecondary institution.
In order to be considered for grants, Tennessee students should first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The application can be filled out online or forms can be obtained from your local college financial aid office. Duel enrollment students and those seeking a Helping Heroes Grant must complete a separate application available from TSAC. After completing the FAFSA, the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC) and your chosen institution will inform you if you qualify for a particular grant.
Some grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you apply the more likely you are to receive an award. To receive priority consideration, you must complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1 to obtain aid for the following fall semester. The priority deadline for the TSAA Grant is February 15. Other grants have application deadlines by semester.