The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) has announced an extension for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) deadline for the Tennessee Promise scholarship program. The new deadline is set for Friday, May 31, 2024, giving high school seniors and their families additional time to complete their FAFSA applications and remain eligible for the state’s tuition-free higher education initiative.
The Tennessee Promise scholarship program allows eligible high school seniors to pursue a technical certificate or associate degree without paying tuition, covering costs not met by other financial aid sources.
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The decision to extend the deadline comes in response to challenges students and families are facing due to delays in the federal FAFSA rollout. Governor Bill Lee commented on the situation, acknowledging the difficulties and supporting the extension.
“Tennessee has an unwavering commitment to providing pathways for students to succeed in post-high school education and training,” said Gov. Bill Lee. “Due to extraordinary circumstances beyond our control, we are extending the FAFSA filing deadline for the Tennessee Promise scholarship program to May 31.”
THEC, alongside Tennessee Promise’s partnering organizations, the Ayers Foundation Trust, and tnAchieves, continue to offer support to students throughout the FAFSA process.
Students aiming to qualify for the Tennessee Promise scholarship should complete the FAFSA online at studentaid.gov before the May 31 deadline. Those encountering difficulties can seek help through their college advisor, high school counselor, or by contacting the THEC/TSAC FAFSA Hotline at 1-800-342-1663. Additional support is available via email at fafsa.help@tn.gov or through the Ayers Foundation Trust and tnAchieves.
Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director, emphasized the state’s commitment to higher education access: “Expanding access to higher education remains a top priority for Tennessee. By extending the application deadline, we are removing barriers and empowering more students to pursue their dreams of a college education.”
This extension coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Tennessee Promise program, which has helped over 150,000 Tennessee students pursue higher education since its inception in 2014.
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission is responsible for implementing policies and initiatives to enhance postsecondary education opportunities in the state. For more information about THEC and its programs, visit tn.gov/thec.
Submitted by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission
Resources: Learn more about federal student aid and access the FAFSA at studentaid.gov.
The College System of Tennessee is the state’s largest public higher education system, with 13 community colleges, 24 colleges of applied technology, and the online TN eCampus serving approximately 140,000 students. The system is governed by the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Contact: Richard Locker, 615-366-4417
Published: 05/17/2024
Follow on Twitter @CollegeSystemTN
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