I know what it feels like to search for grants in your state and come back with nothing but vague advice. "Apply for FAFSA. Check with your school." That is not enough.
So here is the actual guide. Every grant available to women in Tennessee, with amounts and how to apply for each one.
Tennessee State Grants
| Grant | Amount | Who Qualifies | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Reconnect (Adult Track) | Free community college (last-dollar) | Independent adults 24+, no prior degree, TN resident, FAFSA required | TnReconnect.gov |
| Tennessee Student Assistance Award | Up to $2,000/yr | TN resident with financial need | File FAFSA (auto-considered) |
| Tennessee Teaching Scholars | Up to $5,000/yr | Students planning to teach in TN public schools | tn.gov/collegepaystn |
| General Assembly Merit Scholarship | Up to $500/yr | TN resident meeting GPA requirement | File FAFSA (auto-considered) |
Federal Grants (Available in Every State)
These stack on top of any state funding you receive.
| Grant | Amount | Who Qualifies | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Up to $7,395/yr | Undergrads with financial need | File FAFSA at studentaid.gov |
| Federal SEOG | Up to $4,000/yr | Pell recipients with highest need | File FAFSA (auto-considered) |
Private Grants and Scholarships for Tennessee Women
- Tennessee Reconnect: Adult students 24 and older (or meeting independence criteria like being married, a veteran, or having dependents) can attend Tennessee community colleges free after Pell Grant is applied. Covers associate degrees and technical certificates, full-time and part-time.
- Tennessee Reconnect Success Coaches: When you apply to Tennessee Reconnect you can connect with a success coach who helps you navigate school, work, and family at the same time. Ask about this when you apply at TnReconnect.gov.
- Tennessee Workforce Development: Strong WIOA-funded training programs in healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. Visit tn.gov/workforce or your local American Job Center.
- Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award: For women who are the primary financial supporters of their household. $1,000 to $10,000. Apply at Soroptimist.org.
- Jeannette Rankin Foundation: For women 35 and older with financial need. Apply at Rankinfoundation.org.
- Local community foundation: Search "Tennessee community foundation scholarship" for awards specific to your county.
Workforce Training in Tennessee
Tennessee is one of the most supportive states for adult learners. Tennessee Reconnect and WIOA together can cover nearly all costs for qualifying adults at community colleges. Healthcare job training is particularly well-funded through state workforce programs.
Contact your local Tennessee workforce office and ask about WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) training funds. WIOA can pay for tuition, books, childcare, and transportation for programs in high-demand fields like healthcare, IT, and skilled trades.
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
My free grant finder takes about 2 minutes and matches you with every grant, scholarship, and training program available based on where you live and what you want to study.
Find My Grants