College Ready

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Preparing students for college is a key focus in helping them succeed after high school. Through a combination of curriculum, resources, programs, and activities, students gain the skills and tools they need to navigate the college application process, transition to higher education, and achieve their academic goals.

School counselors are available to guide students and answer questions, helping them take proactive steps toward college readiness. In addition, students can request assistance and ask for guidance on choosing the right college, planning coursework, completing financial aid applications, and exploring scholarship opportunities.

Our goal is to ensure every student feels confident and prepared to take the next step toward higher education.

Tennessee Higher Education Resources

Tennessee Promise
Offers last-dollar scholarships and mentoring for students attending community or technical colleges in Tennessee, helping make higher education more accessible.
College for TN
A comprehensive portal for college and career planning, allowing students to explore colleges, majors, and career options, and plan their future.
College for TN | Financial Aid
Provides valuable information on financial aid programs, including HOPE scholarships and TSAA, to help students fund their higher education.
Tennessee Transfer Pathway
Helps students transfer smoothly from a community college to a four-year university by providing clear pathways for various majors.
College for TN | What is Tennessee Promise?
This video provides an overview of the Tennessee Promise, the tuition-free program for all Tennessee residents. Learn about how you can apply and learn how to begin a tuition-free college experience. TN Promise includes technical colleges, community colleges, and some Associate's Degree programs at universities.
TN Grants and Scholarships Flyer
The following is a summary of grants and scholarships for Tennessee high school graduates
available by college type. Unless noted, the following grants and scholarships require students to
file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.gov.
College Application Toolkit
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission has partnered with Tennessee higher education institutions to provide institution-specific college application instructional videos. These videos, created by Tennessee colleges, walk students step-by-step through each college’s application process. The Video link below will open the institution’s instructional video. The Application link will bring you to the institution’s admissions application or website.
TN Treasury | TN Stars website
TNStars is Tennessee's 529 college savings plan, offering tax advantages to help families save for education. Contributions are tax-deductible, and earnings grow tax-deferred. Funds can be used for qualified education expenses at eligible institutions. TNStars provides flexible investment options to make saving for college easier.

College Admissions & Financial Aid Resources

National Center for Education Statistics | College Finder
College Finder is a comprehensive tool that allows students and families to search for colleges and universities across the United States. It provides detailed information on various institutions, including enrollment data, academic programs, tuition costs, and more. Users can filter results by factors such as location, degree offerings, and school type, helping to find the right college based on individual needs and preferences. The College Finder tool is part of NCES's mission to provide reliable and accessible data to support informed decision-making in higher education.
Big Future | College Board
A personalized college planning tool that helps students find colleges, explore majors, and create a path to higher education success.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
A critical tool for applying for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study, and loans, to help cover college expenses.
FAFSA Resources
Frequently asked questions about the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). It’s designed to help students and families navigate the financial aid process, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources needed to complete their FAFSA applications accurately and on time.
ACT Website
Offers information on ACT test dates, preparation resources, and registration for students looking to take the ACT.
College Board
Provides resources for SAT registration, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and tools for searching and applying to colleges.

Scholarship Opportunities

Grote Chemistry Scholarship (UT Chattanooga): For chemistry majors with a 3.5 GPA and 26 ACT.
MTSU Honors College Scholarship: Requires a 3.5 GPA and 25 ACT.
Full Scholarships at Marist College (NY): Available for Computer Science or Information Technology and Systems majors. Learn more.

Universities with Unique Programs

Gardner-Webb University (NC): Programs for Athletic Trainers and music students. Minimum 3.6 GPA for some programs.
University of Central Florida (UCF): Admissions info at www.admissions.ucf.edu.
East Tennessee State University Honors Program: ACT 29 required. Details at www.etsu.edu/honors.
University of Alabama: Multiple University Days are scheduled. More info.
University of Richmond (VA): Admissions events.
Mississippi State University: Visit statement.msstate.edu.
Hofstra University: SAT/ACT optional for most programs.

Specialized Schools and Arts Programs

School of Cartoon and Graphic Art (NJ): Explore at www.kubertsworld.com.
Professional Acting Training (Chattanooga State): Details at www.chattanoogastate.edu/theatre.
Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music: Located at Hazard Community and Technical College. Visit www.kybluegrassschool.com.
Memphis College of Art: Admissions at www.mca.edu.

General University Information

Martin Methodist University: Learn more at www.martinmethodist.edu.
Christian Brothers University (Memphis, TN): Visit www.cbu.edu.
Mount Holyoke College (MA): Explore www.mtholyoke.edu.
University of Chicago: Offers majors in medicine, law, business, arts, and more. Learn more.
Western Kentucky University (WKU): Applications are online-only at www.wku.edu/admissions

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