Tennessee Reconnect Grant

Tennessee Reconnect is designed for adults returning to school or starting a credential after time away from education. At public community colleges and some eligible institutions, the grant covers tuition and mandatory fees remaining after aid counted by the program; at four-year schools with an eligible associate pathway, it does not necessarily cover the full cost. A separate route supports diplomas and certificates at Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs).

For the associate-degree pathway, published criteria include Tennessee residency, citizenship or eligible status, no previous associate or bachelor’s degree, and either independent status on FAFSA or being at least 23 by January 1 of the initial academic year. Most students must take at least six credits in fall and spring, renew FAFSA each year, maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and create a Reconnect Success Plan. Check the authorized school and program list before choosing a course of study.

Applications go through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation portal, followed by admission to an eligible institution and FAFSA. TCAT programs follow a separate calendar: state guidance lists FAFSA dates for summer, fall, and spring, while some campuses set their own deadlines. Reconnect Navigators can also help adults who do not qualify for the grant with admission, FAFSA, transfer credits, and planning, but advising does not guarantee an award.

Who it serves and what it can cover: Tennessee Reconnect is designed for adults returning to school or starting a credential after time away from education. At public community colleges and some eligible institutions, the grant covers tuition and mandatory fees remaining after aid counted by the program; at four-year schools with an eligible associate pathway, it does not necessarily cover the full cost. A separate route supports diplomas and certificates at Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs). For the associate-degree pathway, published criteria include Tennessee residency, citizenship or eligible status, no previous associate or bachelor’s degree, and either independent status on FAFSA or being at least 23 by January 1 of the initial academic year. Most students must take at least six credits in fall and spring, renew FAFSA each year, maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA, and create a Reconnect Success Plan. Check the authorized school and program list before choosing a course of study.

How to apply or get help: Applications go through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation portal, followed by admission to an eligible institution and FAFSA. TCAT programs follow a separate calendar: state guidance lists FAFSA dates for summer, fall, and spring, while some campuses set their own deadlines. Reconnect Navigators can also help adults who do not qualify for the grant with admission, FAFSA, transfer credits, and planning, but advising does not guarantee an award. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information