I'm looking at colleges in Tennessee, but I'm unsure where to start when it comes to finding scholarships. Does anyone have advice on specific Tennessee-based scholarships, or know how to start searching for them?
Finding scholarships can indeed be a bit daunting as there are numerous scholarship resources available. For Tennessee-based scholarships, I would recommend first checking out the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation's (TSAC) website, as they manage state-funded financial aid programs.
For example, the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship is a prominent state scholarship that provides financial assistance to high-achieving Tennessee residents attending eligible Tennessee post-secondary institutions. Other state scholarships are also available, such as the Tennessee Promise Scholarship, which provides two years of tuition-free attendance at a community or technical college in Tennessee.
Other potential Tennessee scholarships include the Ned McWherter Scholars Program and the Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship, designed for students with intellectual disabilities attending eligible post-secondary programs.
Beyond state scholarships, you should also check out institutional scholarships at the Tennessee colleges you're interested in since many schools offer their own scholarships. For instance, the University of Tennessee system offers various institutional scholarships for incoming freshmen and transfer students.
In addition to focusing on Tennessee-specific scholarships, I would also recommend utilizing online scholarship databases like Fastweb, Scholarships.com, or College Board Scholarship Search. These can help you identify opportunities beyond just Tennessee-specific ones.
Finally, don't forget local scholarships. There could be organizations or community groups in your city or county that offer scholarships to residents. Check with your high school guidance counselor to learn about local opportunities.
Remember to keep track of the deadlines for each scholarship you're interested in and ensure that you fully understand the application requirements. Some applications might require essays, recommendation letters, or other supplemental materials, so it’s good to start early.
Good luck with your scholarship search!
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