College can be expensive, but don't worry, financial aid can help. Financial aid is money that helps students pay for college and it comes in different forms, like grants, loans, and work-study programs. The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) is here to assist you along the way. THEC works to make higher education more accessible, ensuring every student in Tennessee has the opportunity to succeed. From helping families understand financial aid, find a school they like, and to guide students through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), THEC is committed to supporting your journey to college.
Start with the FAFSA
To receive most types of financial aid, including grants and scholarships, students must complete the FAFSA. This free application helps determine how much aid a student can receive from the federal and state governments, as well as colleges and universities.
THEC offers live FAFSA webinars, one-on-one assistance with outreach specialists, and other resources to help families navigate the application process. The deadline to submit the FAFSA for the academic year is June 30th. Additionally, the deadline to submit the FAFSA and remain eligible for state aid like the TN Promise scholarship is April 15th. Missed the deadline? You may still be eligible for other state aid, so it is encouraged to still complete the FAFSA at any point during the year.
Types of Financial Aid
There are several forms of financial aid available:
· Grants: Free money that does not need to be repaid. For example, the Pell Grant can provide up to $7,395 for students with financial need.
· Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest. Federal loans typically have lower interest rates than private loans.
· Work-Study: A program that allows students to earn money while attending college by working part-time on campus or in the community.
The Tennessee Hope Scholarship
Tennessee students who complete the FAFSA are also applying for the Hope Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to students attending college in the state.
· Four-year colleges: Up to $2,250 per semester for freshmen and sophomores; up to $2,850 per semester for juniors and seniors.
· Two-year colleges: Up to $1,600 per semester for freshmen and sophomores.
Hope Scholarship Deadlines
· Fall Semester: September 1st
· Spring Semester: March 1st
· Summer Semester: May 1st
THEC: Supporting Tennessee Families
THEC’s mission is to build a strong higher education system that helps students achieve their educational and career goals. THEC supports families by offering:
· Live FAFSA webinars to walk you through the application process.
· One-on-one guidance from Outreach Specialists across the Tennessee.
· Resources to help students find scholarships and grants to reduce college costs.
Don't miss out on free money for college! Connect with THEC today for expert help and make your college dreams a reality. Visit THEC’s website for more information and to find a FAFSA event near you.