Tennessee Scholarships

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$500–$5,000
48 Award Winners

Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarships

The Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship offers need-based scholarships of between $500 and $5,000 to graduating high school seniors or students currently enrolled in accredited colleges in the U.S.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior – College Sophomore
Application Open Date
December 1, 2024
Application Deadline
February 7, 2025
Open
$500–$5,000
48 Award Winners
Open
$250–$1,000
12 Award Winners

Porter Fleming Literary Competition

The Porter Fleming Literary Competition grants the amount of $7,000 to 12 individuals who exhibit skill in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or one-act playwriting.

Eligible Grades
All
Application Open Date
August 1, 2024
Application Deadline
February 13, 2025
Open
$250–$1,000
12 Award Winners
Open
$2,000
1 Award Winner

The James M. & Virginia M. Smyth Scholarship Fund

James M. & Virginia M. Smyth Scholarship Fund awards a scholarship to eligible students to pursue undergraduate degrees in arts and sciences, human services, music, or ministry at an accredited college.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior – Undergraduate
Application Open Date
December 6, 2024
Application Deadline
February 15, 2025
Open
$2,000
1 Award Winner
Open
$750
1 Award Winner

Curwen-Guidry Scholarship Fund

The Fund awards high school seniors who are bowlers in the USBC League to further their education. It’s open to students in the nine states part of the Southern Bowling Congress.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior
Application Open Date
November 1, 2024
Application Deadline
March 15, 2025
Open
$750
1 Award Winner
Open
$1,000
2 Award Winners

Kentucky-Tennessee Section One AWWA Operator Scholarship

Annually, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) awards the Kentucky-Tennessee Section One AWWA Operator Scholarship of $1,000 to two Kentucky-based water works operators, each, to support them through their education.

Eligible Grades
All
Application Open Date
November 1, 2024
Application Deadline
June 14, 2025
Open
$1,000
2 Award Winners
Opening in 18 Days
$6,000
2 Award Winners

Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks offers the Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship of $6,000 to two college students each, pursuing business-related degree programs. Preference is given to accounting majors.

Eligible Grades
Undergraduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
March 24, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$6,000
2 Award Winners
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Opening in 18 Days
$5,000
1 Award Winner

William E. Wilson Scholarship Award

The William E. Wilson Scholarship awards $5,000 to a secondary school teacher pursuing graduate studies in theatre or speech and theatre. Applicants must be legal residents of any SETC state.

Eligible Grades
Graduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$5,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$2,500
1 Award Winner

Leighton M. Ballew Directing Award

SETC’s Leighton M. Ballew Directing Award provides one student with a $2,500 scholarship to study theater directing at a regionally accredited graduate school in the upcoming academic year.

Eligible Grades
Graduate – Postgraduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$2,500
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner

Denise Halbach Performance Scholarship Award

The Denise Halbach Performance Scholarship awards $2,000 to a graduate student studying acting or musical theater. Students who graduated from universities in the SETC region can apply.

Eligible Grades
Graduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner

Robert Porterfield Scholarship Award

The Robert Porterfield Scholarship awards $2,000 to graduate students pursuing a degree in theatre. Applicants should have graduated from an undergraduate program at a university in the SETC region.

Eligible Grades
Graduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner

Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship

The Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship awards $2,000 to one high school senior in the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) region who will pursue studies in theater.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$2,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$1,500
1 Award Winner

Marian A. Smith Costume Scholarship Award

The Marian A. Smith Costume Scholarship awards $1,500 to a graduate student studying costume design or technology. Applicants must have studied or will study at an SETC region institution.

Eligible Grades
Graduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$1,500
1 Award Winner
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Opening in 18 Days
$1,200
1 Award Winner

Josh Fielder Memorial Scholarship

The scholarship is awarded to an adult student in the Memphis area, pursuing an undergraduate degree in an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational or technical institution.

Eligible Grades
All
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 4, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$1,200
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$5,000
1 Award Winner

Tennessee Minority Teaching Fellows Program

The Tennessee Minority Teaching Fellows Program awards one $5,000 scholarship to full-time undergraduate and/or part-time graduate students enrolled in courses creditable to teachers. Licensed teachers are not eligible.

Eligible Grades
College Junior – Postgraduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 15, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$5,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$1,000–$5,000
1 Award Winner

SAWF Scholarship Program

The Southern Automotive Women's Forum Scholarship Program provides scholarships between $1,000 and $5,000 to women enrolled or who plan to enroll in a STEM-related field.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior – High School Graduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
May 20, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$1,000–$5,000
1 Award Winner
Opening in 18 Days
$500
1 Award Winner

Stegall Charitable Educational Foundation Scholarship

Stegall Charitable Educational Foundation Scholarship offers $500 to high school students, high school graduates, or existing college students in Tennessee.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior – Undergraduate
Application Open Date
January 1, 2025
Application Deadline
July 1, 2025
Opening in 18 Days
$500
1 Award Winner
Closed
$4,000
1 Award Winner

American Electric Power Scholarship

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) offers the American Electric Power Scholarship to an eligible student enrolled in an ABET-accredited school who demonstrates an interest in power engineering.

Eligible Grades
College Sophomore – College Junior
Application Open Date
December 1, 2024
Application Deadline
February 29, 2024
Closed
$4,000
1 Award Winner
Closed
$5,000
30 Award Winners

Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest – High School Seniors

The Scholarship Contest awards 30 scholarships to high school senior students who live in states with Regions' full service and plan to enroll in undergraduate programs of their choice.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior
Application Open Date
February 1, 2025
Application Deadline
March 31, 2025
Closed
$5,000
30 Award Winners
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Closed
$3,500
30 Award Winners

Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest – College Students

The Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest awards 30 scholarships to undergraduate students who live in states with Regions' full service and are enrolled in undergraduate programs of their choice.

Eligible Grades
Undergraduate
Application Open Date
February 1, 2025
Application Deadline
March 31, 2025
Closed
$3,500
30 Award Winners
Closed
$1,000–$2,000
3 Award Winners

Bird Dog Foundation College Scholarship Essay Contest

The Bird Dog Foundation College Scholarship Essay Contest is to provide financial aid for high school seniors who are preparing to enter their freshman year at an accredited institution.

Eligible Grades
High School Senior
Application Open Date
March 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 15, 2025
Closed
$1,000–$2,000
3 Award Winners
Closed
$1,500
185 Award Winners

¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award program

The ¡Lánzate!/Take Off! Higher Education Travel Award program offers 185 $1,500 flight e-passes to undergraduate and graduate students who travel away from home to study.

Eligible Grades
Undergraduate – Postgraduate
Application Open Date
February 1, 2025
Application Deadline
April 26, 2025
Closed
$1,500
185 Award Winners
Closed
$2,500
1 Award Winner

MGMA Southern Section Scholarship

The American College of Medical Practice Executives (ACMPE) offers the MGMA Southern Section Scholarship of $2,500 to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in medical practice management-related fields.

Eligible Grades
Undergraduate
Application Open Date
February 20, 2025
Application Deadline
April 29, 2025
Closed
$2,500
1 Award Winner
Closed
$1,900
1 Award Winner

Spenser F. Powell Memorial Law Scholarship

The Spenser F. Powell Memorial Law Scholarship, administered by the East Tennessee Foundation, is offered to one first-year legal student at the University of Tennessee to complete their undergraduate studies.

Eligible Grades
Undergraduate – Graduate
Application Open Date
April 1, 2025
Application Deadline
June 1, 2025
Closed
$1,900
1 Award Winner
Closed
$1,750–$2,250
1 Award Winner

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship

Tennessee State Government awards scholarships ranging from $1,600 to $2,250 to high school graduates to further their education at accredited universities or colleges in Tennessee within 16 months post-graduation.

Eligible Grades
High School Graduate
Application Open Date
February 2, 2025
Application Deadline
September 1, 2025
Closed
$1,750–$2,250
1 Award Winner
Closed
$1,000–$2,250
1 Award Winner

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship – Nontraditional

Nontraditional Tennessee HOPE Scholarship is awarded to nontraditional age students, who reside in Tennessee to pursue higher education in two- to four-year degree programs at accredited institutions in Tennessee.

Eligible Grades
College Freshman
Application Open Date
March 1, 2025
Application Deadline
September 1, 2025
Closed
$1,000–$2,250
1 Award Winner

About Tennessee scholarships

Did you know that there are scholarships in Tennessee specifically for students studying in specific fields? For instance, the state offers scholarships for students who want to study agriculture, engineering, or teaching. There are also scholarships available for students who want to attend a specific school or college in Tennessee. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, community service, or unique talents.

So if you’re interested in studying in Tennessee, be sure to look into the scholarship opportunities available to you. You may be surprised at how much financial assistance is available!

Why study in Tennessee

Not only does Tennessee offer a wide range of educational opportunities at top-tier colleges in the country, but it also enjoys a strong economy and low cost of living, making education more affordable than any other state. Tennessee is also known for its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect place for students from around the world to study and thrive. Among its renowned institutions are Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, and the University of Memphis. With its strong academic institutions, welcoming culture, and competitive tuition costs, Tennessee is an ideal destination for any student looking to pursue their educational dreams.

Cost of college in Tennessee 2023

In the state of Tennessee, the average cost of college is around $14,000 per year. However, there are three schools in the state that offer significantly lower rates. The University of Memphis charges an annual tuition rate of just over $8,500, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga costs students about $9,600 annually and Austin Peay State University is the most affordable option with a yearly rate of just over $10,000.

Fortunately, Tennessee students have access to a variety of scholarship and tuition assistance programs that can help reduce the cost of college even further. The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship is one of the most popular options for state scholarships, developed by the Tennessee State Government which can help students with their tuition costs.

Best colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a wide variety of higher education options for students seeking an exceptional educational experience. The University of Tennessee, Vanderbilt University, Rhodes College, Sewanee: The University of the South, and Belmont University are among the top-ranked institutions in the state. Each of these schools has its own unique offerings and opportunities that can provide students with a quality education, which prepares them for success in the future. Whether you’re interested in a research-focused degree or a more liberal arts-oriented approach, Tennessee has a school that can meet your needs. Plus, many of these schools being near major cities such as Memphis and Nashville, Tennessee offers students the chance to explore new cultures and experiences while they pursue their degrees.

Besides all the universities, Tennessee has numerous community colleges and vocational institutions offering technical degrees, certificates, and diplomas designed to help students jumpstart their careers. Some of the most popular include Columbia State Community College in Columbia, Chattanooga State Community College in Chattanooga, and Roane State Community College in Harriman. These are often shorter programs in length than traditional college degrees and provide students with the ability to quickly enter the workforce and gain valuable skills. With various options for two-year degrees and certifications, these community colleges can help students find their place in the career world more quickly and efficiently. Popular programs include culinary arts, welding technology, healthcare administration, computer programming, and automotive mechanics.

Best 10 scholarships in Tennessee 2023

There are a lot of scholarships available in Tennessee – so we gathered 10 of the best value ones – from our list of scholarships that have the easiest application process. These scholarships are open to Tennessee students, some are open to students across the U.S., and have minimal application requirements.

ScholarshipAward Amount
Hearld and Marge Ambler Scholarship$6,000
Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarship$500-$5,000
SAWF Scholarship Program$5,000
William E. Wilson Scholarship$5,000
Synovus Bank/Calvin Smyre Endowed Scholarship$4,500
American Electric Power Scholarship$4,000
Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Competition$3,500
MGMA Southern Section Scholarship$2,500
Tennessee HOPE Scholarship$1,750-$2,250
Kentucky-Tennessee Section One AWWA Operator Scholarship$1,000

Tennessee scholarships for high school seniors 2023

Tennessee high school seniors are in need of scholarships to help them achieve their educational goals. With the rising cost of tuition, many students find it difficult to afford college. Additionally, Tennessee’s economy is struggling and many families cannot afford to pay for higher education without outside assistance. Scholarships can provide a financial lifeline for these students, allowing them to attend college without taking on large amounts of debt or relying on family support. Not only do scholarships help financially challenged students realize their dreams of attending college, but they also enable those from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain access to the same opportunities as more privileged peers. By providing scholarships for Tennessee high school seniors, we can ensure that all young people have a chance at achieving success in higher education and beyond.

There is a wide variety of scholarships available to Tennessee high school seniors. These awards are offered by organizations, businesses, colleges, and other institutions that are dedicated to assisting students in need of financial aid. Scholarships range from merit-based awards to those specifically designed for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Some top scholarships for Tennessee high school seniors include the Jimmy Rane Foundation Scholarships that awards up to $5,000. Another popular scholarship offered by the Tennessee State Government is the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship that’s worth up to $2,250.

Tennessee scholarships for women 2023

Women often face a number of systemic barriers to success, including lower wages and fewer job opportunities in Tennessee. There is still gender inequality, with women earning 78 cents for every dollar earned by a man and making up only 28% of executive positions in the state. Women often find themselves at a disadvantage when it comes to access to career opportunities and promotions, and a lack of flexibility in the workplace can further prevent them from advancing. Therefore, most women seek scholarships to pursue higher education. Scholarships provide much-needed access to educational resources that would otherwise be unavailable or unaffordable. They can open up gateways to higher-paying jobs, greater career prospects, and a better future for Tennessee women. Furthermore, scholarships can be used to provide mentorship and networking opportunities that are often unavailable to those without access to higher education. Through scholarships, women can break down the barriers preventing them from achieving their full potential. Check out the of up to $5,000. The program is offered by the Southern Automotive Women’s Forum to female students of all educational levels to complete their studies.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular majors in Tennessee?

The most popular majors among Tennessee students include business administration, nursing, psychology, biology, elementary education, and management. Business administration is especially popular due to its flexibility and range of career options after graduation. Nursing remains a popular choice for many students, as it provides an opportunity to enter the healthcare field and help people. Psychology is another major that appeals to those who want to gain insight into how people think and behave. Biology is a great option for students interested in understanding living organisms and their environments, while elementary education offers the chance to make a difference in young lives.

Where does Tennessee rank in education?

Tennessee continues to progress in education. It ranks in the middle at 32 on a list of most education quality. Read our reports on 2022 Most & Least Educated States and States with Best & Worst Public School Systems for more. According to U.S. News and World Report’s 2020 rankings, Tennessee is ranked 28th in overall education quality. The state has seen improved scores in college readiness, with its high school graduation rate surpassing the national average at 88%.