Tennessee Reconnect Grant

Tennessee Reconnect helps adults begin or resume education toward a technical credential or associate degree. At public community colleges and some technical institutions, the grant works as last-dollar aid: it covers eligible tuition and mandatory fees remaining after other federal and state aid. The program also offers navigation and academic support, which can help adults returning after time away for work or family.

For the community-college path, applicants must be Tennessee residents and U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens, qualify as independent on FAFSA or be at least 23 on January 1 of the initial academic year, and not already hold an associate or bachelor’s degree. They must be admitted to a participating school, meet loan-status requirements, and submit transcripts from prior colleges. Reentry applicants should ask a navigator about specialized pathways.

Students must enroll in at least six credits in fall and spring through completion; summer is optional and may be covered if eligibility continues. Renewal requires a 2.0 GPA, annual FAFSA, continued participation in the Reconnect Success Plan, and completion within five calendar years. The benefit can end upon graduation, completion of required hours, or loss of continuous enrollment or the minimum GPA.

Coverage varies by institution type. At public community colleges, aid may cover the eligible balance after Pell and other grants; at some four-year colleges offering associate degrees, it is not necessarily last-dollar and is calculated using a community-college tuition benchmark. Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology have a separate route for diplomas and certificates. Review the exact institution and program list, not just the Reconnect name.

The process includes a state application through the TSAC portal, FAFSA, and admission to a participating campus. The application generates a personalized Success Plan that should be saved for future reference; it connects students with advising and support but does not replace course registration or academic records. Ask the financial-aid office to confirm the grant was applied after other aid and before the bill is due.

The state’s published evaluation reviews program reach and outcomes, while the college financial-aid office determines individual packages. Before borrowing to fill a budget gap, compare tuition, fees, books, transportation, housing, and work schedules. Reconnect can reduce direct charges but should not be mistaken for a scholarship covering living costs or the full cost of attendance. A local navigator can help plan a return without leaving administrative steps until the last day.

Ask the financial-aid office for a written term-by-term estimate separating tuition, fees, housing, books, and other costs. Keep the award letter, records, and any service agreement. If your studies, residence, or course load change, contact the administrator before that decision affects your aid.

Official program information and application