10 Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Tennessee

If you're a high school student or working adult pursuing higher education in Tennessee, you may wonder whether you can afford it. You've heard that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you secure various forms of financial aid, but what colleges in your state use the FAFSA?

Tennessee boasts 137 online schools that accept FAFSA. Many of these schools offer online college degrees in numerous fields, allowing learners to get their education on their own terms. Keep reading to find out more about how these various forms of financial aid are applied with the FAFSA.

10 Best Online Colleges That Accept FAFSA in Tennessee

An online degree or certificate program can make a college education affordable and accessible for many people who wouldn't otherwise be able to attend college. Let's look at some top schools in Tennessee that accept the FAFSA and offer online learning opportunities.

1. University of Tennessee System

The University of Tennessee System consists of four primary campuses:

• Knoxville
• Martin
• Pulaski
• Chattanooga

There are other learning centers throughout the state. It has an enrollment of around 49,000 students across the various campuses. Online students at these Tennessee colleges can pursue many online education programs. Bachelor's, master's, post-master's, and doctoral degrees are available. There are also certificate programs.

Those interested in attending one of these schools can enter the following codes on the FAFSA:

• Knoxville: 003530
• Martin: 003531
• Southern (Pulaski): 003504
• Chattanooga: 003529

2. Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University is a public school in Nashville. It is a historically black university founded in 1912 with approximately 9,200 students. The school provides online bachelor's and professional degree programs in areas like:

• business administration
• criminal justice
• healthcare

Students also have the option to complete individual courses online. If you'd like to enroll in one of the school's online programs, enter school code 003522 when filling out the FAFSA application.

3. University of Memphis

The University of Memphis is a public school enrolling more than 22,000 students. The school was founded in 1912 and offers a variety of online and in-person degree programs.

Those interested in distance education can pursue both graduate and undergraduate degrees online. Flexible programs enable college students to study full-time or part-time on their schedule, and in-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition rates. The school's FAFSA school code is 003509.

4. Middle Tennessee State University

Middle Tennessee State University is a public school in Murfreesboro. It offers over 300 total degree programs and has an enrollment of more than 20,000 students.

The school offers numerous bachelor's, master's, and specialist degrees that students can complete through distance learning. Some online degree programs are available, including:

• cybersecurity
• English
• supply chain management

This is a great school for anyone hoping to attend online. The school code for the FAFSA is 003510.

5. East Tennessee State University

East Tennessee State University is located in Johnson City. Established in 1911, it enrolls 13,400 students across various online and on-campus programs. Many online bachelor's degrees are available, along with master's programs, a couple of education doctorate degrees, and certificates. The FAFSA school code is 003487.

6. Austin Peay State University

Austin Peay State University is a public school located in Clarksville. Named for a former governor of Tennessee, the school was established in 1927 and currently enrolls around 11,000 students.

The school offers certificates and undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an associate degree in university studies. Other online degrees include computer science, public management, and medical laboratory science. Those interested in earning their credentials from this school, enter the school code 003478 on the FAFSA.

7. Lee University

Lee University is a private, nonprofit Christian school located in Cleveland. It was founded in 1918 and provides a liberal arts education for in-person and online students. 

Various associate and bachelor's degrees are available, along with several online master's and doctoral programs. Students can also pursue certificates at this online school. The FAFSA code for this school is 003500.

8. Johnson University

Johnson University is a Christian school located in Kimberlin Heights. Though it enrolls fewer than 1,000 students, various online degrees are available. 

Students can choose from associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in several subjects. Common programs include applied linguistics, ministry leadership, and business administration. If you want financial aid at this school, use the code 003495.

9. Lipscomb University

Lipscomb University is a private Christian school in Nashville. Affiliated with the Churches of Christ, it was established in 1891 and now enrolls around 4,700 students.

Lipscomb offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in topics like hospitality management, psychology, and data analytics. Use FAFSA code 003486 when completing the form to have your results sent to this school.

10. Bethel University

Bethel University is headquartered in McKenzie and was first established in 1842. It enrolls almost 4,700 students in a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs.

Associate and bachelor's degrees are available for undergrads, while graduate students can pursue master's and doctoral degrees. They can also pursue certificates and professional licensures. Students can also complete coursework for several online seminary programs. This school's code for the FAFSA is 003480.

Applying for FAFSA in Tennessee

Keep reading if you're still wondering whether you can receive FAFSA funds at one of the schools above. Below, we discuss the eligibility requirements and steps you can take to apply for the FAFSA.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the FAFSA, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Have a social security number
• Be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited degree or certificate program
• Have no history of defaulting on federal student loans
• Maintain satisfactory academic progress

Steps To Apply

To complete the FAFSA, follow the steps below:

• Obtain an FSA ID and use it to create an account on FAFSA.gov
• Complete all fields of the application
• If you are a dependent student, have your parents or guardians complete the required portions of the application
• Submit all required financial documents
• Sign and submit the application

Other Financial Aid Options for Online College in Tennessee

Tennessee residents can access multiple financial aid programs in addition to FAFSA that help make college more affordable. These state-based opportunities are available to both traditional and online learners pursuing higher education.

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship

The Tennessee HOPE Scholarship supports recent high school graduates who demonstrate strong academic performance. To qualify, you must be a Tennessee resident, complete the FAFSA, and meet GPA and standardized test score requirements.

Online students attending eligible public or private colleges can use HOPE funds to cover tuition and required fees. The award is renewable each year if you maintain satisfactory academic progress and residency.

Tennessee Promise Program

The Tennessee Promise Program offers last-dollar scholarships that cover tuition and mandatory fees at community and technical colleges across the state. To apply, you’ll need to complete the FAFSA and participate in a mentoring program before enrollment.

This program is available to students pursuing both on-campus and online associate degrees. It’s a strong option for recent graduates looking for an affordable path to a college credential.

Tennessee Reconnect Grant

The Tennessee Reconnect Grant provides financial support for adults who return to school to complete a degree or credential. You must be a Tennessee resident, at least 23 years old, and complete the FAFSA to qualify.

Online learners attending eligible community or technical colleges can use these funds to cover tuition and fees. The program is designed to help working adults advance their education and career opportunities.

FAQs About Using FAFSA for College in Tennessee

If you’re pursuing an online degree in Tennessee, completing the FAFSA can unlock access to both state and federal aid. Below are answers to common questions about FAFSA eligibility and available programs.

What Types of Financial Aid Are Available Through FAFSA for Tennessee Students?

Through FAFSA, Tennessee students can qualify for federal Pell Grants, work-study programs, and low-interest student loans. Completing the FAFSA also makes you eligible for several state programs, including the HOPE Scholarship, Reconnect Grant, and Promise Program.

These combined resources can help reduce tuition and other education-related costs. Applying early ensures you have the best chance of receiving all the aid for which you qualify.

Where Can I Get Help Filling Out the FAFSA in Tennessee?

Students in Tennessee can get FAFSA assistance through high school counselors, college financial aid offices, and the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC). These resources provide step-by-step help to complete the application accurately.

You can also access free virtual support through TSAC’s online resources or the federal FAFSA website. Getting help early in the process can prevent delays in receiving aid.

What Happens After I Submit the FAFSA for a Tennessee College?

After you submit your FAFSA, your information is sent to both federal and Tennessee state aid offices. They use this data to determine eligibility for programs such as the HOPE Scholarship and Tennessee Promise.

Once processed, your college will prepare an award letter outlining the grants, scholarships, and loans you qualify for. Reviewing this carefully helps you plan your finances for the academic year.

Find an Affordable Online College in Tennessee

Tennessee offers strong financial aid programs that help students make online education more affordable and accessible. Explore accredited degree options on Learn.org and connect directly with schools to find programs that match your goals and budget.