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BY RANDY BOYD

President

University of TN System

This week, many public higher education institutions across our state are participating in Free Application Week. This initiative offers prospective students the opportunity to apply to universities and colleges at no cost, removing an important financial barrier for those pursuing their academic goals. Whether you’re a high school senior, a transfer student or a current worker looking to upskill, this week is an open invitation to take the next step toward a brighter future. 

A four-year degree is not just a milestone – it’s a transformative opportunity for Tennessee families, businesses and communities. Our steady focus is about making a UT degree more accessible and affordable than ever before. Despite concerns about the cost and complexity of navigating college, University of Tennessee campuses are continuously breaking down barriers that prevent access to higher education. Consider these highlights which showcase the significant strides we have made to ensure that more Tennesseans can pursue their academic goals.

Guaranteed Admissions

The first college test for many is simply completing a complicated application and hoping for acceptance. To alleviate this, Tennessee high school students can now secure guaranteed undergraduate admission to one of UT’s undergraduate campuses in Tennessee – Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski or Martin. Those students and families may now plan their college experiences earlier and with greater confidence and certainty. And for those who may not meet the guaranteed admission standards, the regular admission process still provides a path to join the UT community. There’s a UT campus ready to welcome every student.

The Common App

Even the college application process has become more straightforward at UT. With all our undergraduate campuses now part of the national Common Application, students can apply to multiple UT campuses with just one application. This simplifies the process for students and families, making it easier than ever to consider the full spectrum of opportunities within UT and helping them find the campus that best meets their needs. During Free Application Week, September 16–20, students can apply to all four undergraduate UT campuses for free using the Common Application.

UT Promise

Expanded to reach even more students and families across Tennessee, UT Promise now covers those with qualifying incomes up to $75,000. And with increased minimum awards from $100 to $500 per semester, students have additional support for other college expenses like housing and books. Through UT Promise, more than two-thirds of Tennessee’s high school seniors qualify to attend any UT campus free of tuition and mandatory fees. And this expansion means that more students can graduate from one of UT’s campuses without the burden of debt.

Debt-Free Degree

Across the UT System, 47% of all students graduate debt free. Of those who do graduate with debt, they average $26,000 in debt – down 4.4% from five years ago. Campuses are dedicated to providing financial aid options that make a degree attainable for all students.

Setting Up for Lifetime Success

A UT education is an investment in long-term success. On average, individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn $1.5 million more over their lifetimes compared to those with only a high school diploma. The difference is $1.1 million when compared to an associate degree. UT is committed to ensuring that every aspiring student in Tennessee has a clear path to achieve their academic and career goals – free from financial or logistical barriers.

As we continue building the greatest decade in UT history, the University of Tennessee System is making higher education accessible and attainable for all Tennesseans. With five unique campuses, there’s a UT campus that’s just right for every student. UT – five campuses, one just for you.