Education Grants for Single Mothers in Tennessee
Tennessee Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑BS 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you the exact steps, amounts, deadlines, and contacts to pay for college or job training in Tennessee. Every number below comes from an official state or federal source and was verified for the 2025–26 school year.
Quick Help (read this first)
- File the FAFSA as soon as you can. It unlocks Pell Grants, TSAA (state grant), HOPE, Reconnect, and more. Use the 2025–26 FAFSA if you’re enrolling between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026. Apply for FAFSA at Federal Student Aid. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- If your income is low, you may get a Federal Pell Grant up to $7,395 for 2025–26. No repayment. Amount depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and enrollment level. See Pell rules from Federal Student Aid. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Apply early for the Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA). Awards up to 4,000∗∗atprivatecollegesand∗∗4,000** at private colleges and **2,000 at public colleges/TCATs if your SAI is ≤ 5000. Priority if FAFSA is in by April 15. TSAA details and eligibility. (collegefortn.org)
- At community colleges and many four‑year schools offering associate degrees, Tennessee Reconnect can cover remaining tuition/fees after Pell and state aid if you’re 23+ (or independent) and enroll at least half‑time. Tennessee Reconnect. (tnreconnect.gov)
- HOPE Lottery Scholarships pay up to 2,250/semester∗∗(freshman/sophomore)and∗∗2,250/semester** (freshman/sophomore) and **2,850/semester (junior/senior). Nontraditional HOPE is available to independent students with AGI ≤ $36,000 at eligible 4‑year schools. HOPE amounts and rules. (collegefortn.org)
- Need fast, local help with training funds? Call an American Job Center (AJC). They can pay for approved programs through WIOA and connect SNAP E&T supports (transportation, books, fees). Find your nearest AJC here: Find Local American Job Center. (tn.gov)
- Child care while you’re in school or training: Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance serves families up to 85% of State Median Income with co‑pays often waived at/below 150% FPL. Use the county office locator or apply online. TDHS Child Care Certificate Program + income/co‑pay chart (effective June 1, 2024). (tn.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (amounts and who should apply)
| Program | Who it helps | 2025–26 Amounts | Key deadlines | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Low‑ to moderate‑income undergrads | Up to 7,395∗∗/year(min∗∗7,395**/year (min **740); prorated if < full‑time | FAFSA ASAP | FAFSA at Federal Student Aid (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | Very low‑SAI Pell‑eligible students (funds limited by campus) | 100–100–4,000/year | FAFSA ASAP; campus priority | Ask your college FAO; see FSA rules (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TSAA (state grant) | TN residents, SAI ≤ 5000 | 4,000∗∗private;∗∗4,000** private; **2,000 public/TCAT | FAFSA by April 15 strongly encouraged | TSAA info (collegefortn.org) |
| HOPE Scholarship | TN grads meeting GPA/ACT or adult “nontraditional” | Up to 2,250/sem∗∗(FR/SO)and∗∗2,250/sem** (FR/SO) and **2,850/sem (JR/SR); supplements possible | FAFSA by Sept 1 (fall) / Feb 1 (spring/summer) | HOPE details (collegefortn.org, onestop.utk.edu) |
| TN Reconnect | Adults 23+ (or FAFSA‑independent), ≥ 6 hours | Last‑dollar for community colleges; limited support at 4‑yr associate programs | Apply + FAFSA each year | Tennessee Reconnect (tnreconnect.gov) |
| Wilder‑Naifeh Technical Skills Grant | TCAT students (certificate/diploma) | $2,000/year | FAFSA by term deadlines | Wilder‑Naifeh (collegefortn.org) |
| UT Promise (optional add‑on at UT campuses) | HOPE‑eligible, AGI ≤ $75,000; last‑dollar at UT | Covers remaining tuition/fees; ≥ $500/semester minimum | Campus deadlines vary | UT Promise (tennessee.edu) |
| P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (nonprofit) | Women returning to school (after 24‑mo break) | Up to $4,000 one‑time grant | Rolling via local chapter | P.E.O. PCE official page (peointernational.org) |
Note: All amounts shown are for 2025–26 unless a program’s official page states otherwise. Always read your school’s financial aid offer for the final figure.
How to start (do this in order)
- Create or log in to your FAFSA account and submit the FAFSA for 2025–26. List a Tennessee college first to get TSAA priority. (collegefortn.org)
- Create a TSAC Student Portal account to track state aid (TSAA/HOPE/Promise/Reconnect). TSAC Student Portal financial aid line 800‑342‑1663 (TSAC.AidInfo@tn.gov). (tn.gov)
- If you’re 23+ (or FAFSA‑independent), apply for Tennessee Reconnect and talk to a local Reconnect Navigator for free one‑on‑one help. Apply + regions. (tnreconnect.gov)
- Contact your nearest American Job Center (AJC) to ask about WIOA or SNAP E&T funding for tuition, books, fees, tools, and transportation. Find local AJC. (tn.gov)
Federal Grants You Should Claim First
Federal Pell Grant (core grant most single moms receive)
- Amounts for 2025–26: up to 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740. Paid to your school; any leftover after tuition/fees can help with books and living costs. Award is based on SAI, family size, single‑parent status, and enrollment intensity (percentage of full‑time). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Action steps:
- File FAFSA ASAP and enroll in an eligible program leading to a degree or certificate.
- Check your Student Aid Index (SAI) on your FAFSA Submission Summary; ask the aid office to review special circumstances if your 2024 income dropped. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Timeline: Schools package Pell within 2–6 weeks after they receive your FAFSA; funds usually disburse the first week of the term (or after attendance verification).
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If your Pell is small or zero, make sure your FAFSA lists the right household size and dependency status. Ask for a professional judgment review if you had a recent separation, job loss, or child support change.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
- Amounts: 100–100–4,000 per year; campus‑based and first‑come until a school’s funds run out. You generally must be Pell‑eligible with the lowest SAIs. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Action steps:
- File FAFSA early and contact your school’s aid office to ask if they still have FSEOG funds and whether you’re on the priority list.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about institutional emergency grants or completion grants on your campus; many schools reserve funds for student parents.
TEACH Grant (only if you plan to teach high‑need subjects in low‑income schools)
- Amount: Scheduled award 4,000∗∗,butfederalsequestrationreducesthemaxto∗∗4,000**, but federal sequestration reduces the max to **3,772 for grants first disbursed 10/1/2025–9/30/2026. Requires a signed service agreement; if you don’t teach as required, it converts to a loan. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Action steps:
- Complete TEACH counseling and the Agreement to Serve; confirm your major and teaching plan qualify.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Skip TEACH if you’re unsure about completing four years of eligible teaching—consider HOPE + TSAA + Reconnect and local scholarships instead.
Tennessee Grants and Scholarships (stack these with Pell)
Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA)
- What it pays: Up to 4,000∗∗ateligiblefour‑year/two‑yearprivatecolleges;∗∗4,000** at eligible four‑year/two‑year private colleges; **2,000 at public four‑year and two‑year colleges; $2,000 at TCATs/private career schools. Must be at least half‑time. SAI must be ≤ 5000. Funds are limited; returning recipients who meet deadlines are paid first. (collegefortn.org)
- Deadlines and priority: Submit FAFSA as soon as possible; returning students who file by April 15 are prioritized, then remaining funds go to the neediest new applicants who filed by April 15. (collegefortn.org)
- How to apply: FAFSA only; ensure your first‑choice Tennessee school is listed.
- What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If placed on the TSAA waitlist, keep checking your TSAC Student Portal; awards may release after students drop/transfer.
- Ask your aid office about completion grants or emergency funds.
HOPE Lottery Scholarships (including Nontraditional HOPE)
- Amounts (per full‑time semester): 2,250∗∗freshman/sophomore;∗∗2,250** freshman/sophomore; **2,850 junior/senior. At two‑year colleges, up to 1,600∗∗persemester.Somestudentsalsoqualifyforsupplements:GeneralAssemblyMeritScholarship(GAMS)∗∗1,600** per semester. Some students also qualify for supplements: General Assembly Merit Scholarship (GAMS) **1,500/year and Aspire $2,500/year. (collegefortn.org, onestop.utk.edu)
- Nontraditional HOPE (for independent students in bachelor’s programs): Same per‑semester amounts; requires AGI ≤ $36,000 and 2.75 college GPA after 12 credits. (collegefortn.org)
- Deadlines: FAFSA by September 1 for fall; February 1 for spring/summer (schools may advise earlier). (etsu.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re short on ACT/SAT or high school GPA, enroll at a community college (HOPE is still available at two‑year schools) or work toward Nontraditional HOPE later.
Tennessee Reconnect (adults 23+ or FAFSA‑independent)
- What it does: Last‑dollar grant at community colleges (and TCAT Reconnect for technical diplomas) that covers remaining tuition/mandatory fees after Pell/HOPE/TSAA. At four‑year schools, Reconnect is not last‑dollar and is capped based on average community college tuition. Must enroll at least 6 hours, maintain 2.0 GPA, and complete a Reconnect Success Plan. (tnreconnect.gov, law.justia.com)
- Eligibility snapshot: TN resident; 23+ by Jan 1 of the start year (or FAFSA‑independent); no prior associate or bachelor’s; in a Title IV‑eligible certificate or associate program. (collegefortn.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you lost eligibility (stopped out, GPA < 2.0), meet with a Reconnect Navigator to draft a comeback plan and ask about TSAA + HOPE + campus aid while you re‑qualify. (tnreconnect.gov)
Wilder‑Naifeh Technical Skills Grant (TCAT students)
- Amount: $2,000 per academic year at Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs). Can be a bridge to HOPE if you later move into an associate program within three years. (collegefortn.org)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re on a waitlist for a TCAT program, ask the AJC about WIOA funds for similar approved training providers while you wait. (tn.gov)
UT Promise (for UT campuses only)
- Who should look: If your family AGI is ≤ 75,000∗∗andyou’reHOPE‑eligible,UTPromisefillsanyremainingtuition/mandatoryfeesafterotheraid(minimum∗∗75,000** and you’re HOPE‑eligible, UT Promise fills any remaining tuition/mandatory fees after other aid (minimum **500/semester). Community service hours apply. (tennessee.edu)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If UT Promise isn’t a fit, your UT campus may still offer need‑based grants—ask the aid office.
Helping Heroes Grant (veterans)
- Amount: 1,000/semester∗∗(12+credits)or∗∗1,000/semester** (12+ credits) or **500/semester (6–11 credits). For honorably discharged veterans or qualifying Guard/Reserve with specific campaign medals. Apply each year; deadlines: Sept 1 (fall), Mar 1 (spring), May 1 (summer). (collegefortn.org)
Child Care and Study Supports While You’re in School
Smart Steps Child Care Payment Assistance (TDHS)
- Who qualifies: Working parents or students in post‑secondary programs averaging 30 hours/week (work+school), up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI) by household size. Co‑pays are waived at or below 150% of FPL; above that, co‑pay is 5% of gross monthly income divided by 4.3 (weekly) and split among children. Use the county office locator or One DHS portal to apply. (tn.gov)
- Income thresholds (monthly, effective June 1, 2024; still posted by TDHS in 2025—check for updates): Household of 2: 4,344∗∗(854,344** (85% SMI); 3: **5,367; 4: 6,389∗∗;5:∗∗6,389**; 5: **7,411; 6: 8,433∗∗.Co‑paywaivedupto1508,433**. Co‑pay waived up to 150% FPL (e.g., family of 4 up to **3,900/month). (tn.gov)
- Where to apply/find offices:
- Online application: One DHS Customer Portal. Phone: 1‑833‑772‑TDHS (8347).
- Local office locator (addresses/phones by county): Child Care Assistance Office Locator. (tn.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your college about a campus child‑care center and whether it receives CCAMPIS (federal) funding; some schools cover a large share of childcare for Pell‑eligible student parents. Program status varies by campus and year—start with your school’s financial aid or student parent office, and see the federal CCAMPIS page for background. (ed.gov)
SNAP Employment & Training (SNAP E&T)
- If you receive SNAP and are not on Families First (TANF), SNAP E&T can pay for approved training plus supports like books, tools, uniforms, transport, and sometimes child care. Tennessee’s plan reimburses transportation in 25∗∗incrementsupto∗∗25** increments up to **100/month, depending on participation level. Connect via your AJC. (tn.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov)
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re in TANF (Families First), ask your caseworker about education/training activities and supportive services instead. (tn.gov)
Job Training Dollars (WIOA) You Can Use for College or Certificates
- WIOA funds (via American Job Centers) may cover tuition, books, fees, exams, and supportive services for approved in‑demand programs through Individual Training Accounts (ITAs). Caps and policies vary by local workforce area—call your AJC to ask about the ITA cap in your county and what documentation you need. Start here: Find Local AJC. (tn.gov)
- Hurdles and timelines: Expect 2–6 weeks for eligibility and training plan approval. Bring ID, income proof, residency, layoff/low‑income documentation, and your program’s cost sheet.
- What to do if this doesn’t work: If WIOA can’t fund you, ask about SNAP E&T tuition coverage or short‑term credentials your college can bundle into a “Pell‑eligible” certificate.
Real‑World Cost Examples (so you can see the math)
These are examples using official 2025 pricing; your numbers will vary by school and SAI.
- Example A: Community college, 12 credits/semester at Nashville State
- In‑state published tuition/fees for 12 credits: about **2,438/semester∗∗(fromNashvilleState’sposted2,438/semester** (from Nashville State’s posted 191/credit + required fees). (nscc.edu)
- If you receive the maximum Pell (3,698∗∗persemesterforfull‑time)italonecoversyourtuition/feeswitharefundtowardbooksandliving.HOPEattwo‑yearschools(∗∗3,698** per semester for full‑time) it alone covers your tuition/fees with a refund toward books and living. HOPE at two‑year schools (**1,600/semester) and TSAA ($1,000/semester) can further reduce your out‑of‑pocket needs. (fsapartners.ed.gov, collegefortn.org)
- If you’re 23+ and Reconnect‑eligible, it pays any remaining tuition/fees after Pell/HOPE/TSAA (there may be $0 left to pay). (tnreconnect.gov)
- Example B: TCAT diploma, full‑time
- Wilder‑Naifeh pays $2,000/year toward program charges. If Pell applies, stack it; if not enough, ask about TCAT Reconnect (last‑dollar for independent students). (collegefortn.org)
- Reality check: Grants usually pay tuition/fees first. Pell can refund to you for books/living if it exceeds charges. State scholarships (HOPE/TSAA/Promise/UT Promise/Reconnect) generally apply to tuition/fees only.
Tables You Can Use to Compare
Table 1. State and Federal Grants at a Glance
| Grant | Max 2025–26 Amount | Enrollment requirement | Key eligibility point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pell Grant | $7,395/year | Any intensity; prorated | Based on SAI, family size, and enrollment. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| FSEOG | $4,000/year (campus‑limited) | Varies by campus | Priority to lowest‑SAI Pell recipients. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| TSAA | 4,000∗∗private;∗∗4,000** private; **2,000 public/TCAT | ≥ half‑time | SAI ≤ 5000; apply by April 15. (collegefortn.org) |
| HOPE | 2,250/sem∗∗FR/SO;∗∗2,250/sem** FR/SO; **2,850/sem JR/SR | ≥ half‑time | GPA/ACT rules; Nontraditional HOPE AGI ≤ $36,000. (collegefortn.org) |
| Reconnect | Last‑dollar (CC/TCAT) | ≥ 6 hours | 23+ or FAFSA‑independent; no prior degree. (tnreconnect.gov) |
| Wilder‑Naifeh | $2,000/year | Full‑time TCAT | TCAT certificate/diploma programs only. (collegefortn.org) |
Table 2. HOPE + Supplements (per semester if full‑time)
| Level | HOPE | With GAMS | With Aspire |
|---|---|---|---|
| FR/SO | $2,250 | $2,750 | $3,000 |
| JR/SR | $2,850 | $3,350 | $3,600 |
| Source: UT Knoxville One Stop (supplement amounts and proration). (onestop.utk.edu) |
Table 3. TSAA Award by Institution Type (annual)
| Institution | 2025–26 Max TSAA |
|---|---|
| Four‑year/two‑year private | $4,000 |
| Four‑year public | $2,000 |
| Two‑year public | $2,000 |
| TCAT/private career | $2,000 |
| Source: CollegeforTN (THEC/TSAC). (collegefortn.org) |
Table 4. Typical Community College Costs vs. Aid (per semester)
| Item (Nashville State example) | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition/fees for 12 credits | ~$2,438 |
| Pell (max, full‑time) | $3,698 |
| HOPE at two‑year | $1,600 |
| TSAA (public two‑year) | $1,000 |
| Result if you qualify for all three | Tuition/fees covered; Pell refund for books/living |
| Sources: Nashville State tuition table; Pell max; HOPE/TSAA program pages. (nscc.edu, fsapartners.ed.gov, collegefortn.org) |
Table 5. Child Care Eligibility Snapshot (monthly income)
| Household | 150% FPL (no co‑pay) | 85% SMI cap |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $2,555 | $4,344 |
| 3 | $3,228 | $5,367 |
| 4 | $3,900 | $6,389 |
| 5 | $4,573 | $7,411 |
| 6 | $5,245 | $8,433 |
| Source: TDHS Income Eligibility and Co‑Pay Chart, effective 6/1/2024. Check the link for the current chart. (tn.gov) |
Required Documents (Application Checklist)
- Government ID and Social Security number (or eligible non‑citizen documentation).
- 2023 tax info and current income changes (for FAFSA SAI updates); proof of child support received/paid as applicable.
- Proof of Tennessee residency (lease, utility bill) for state aid.
- For Reconnect: unofficial transcripts from all prior colleges; Reconnect Success Plan after you apply. (tnreconnect.gov)
- For Smart Steps: class schedule (if student), recent pay stubs, children’s birth certificates/citizenship docs. (tn.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to file the FAFSA—TSAA is limited and prioritizes early filers (returning students by April 15). (collegefortn.org)
- Listing the wrong “first‑choice” Tennessee school on your FAFSA (can delay TSAA). (collegefortn.org)
- Registering for non‑program courses—state aid only covers classes in your program of study (HOPE rule). (collegefortn.org)
- Dropping below half‑time when you counted on TSAA/HOPE (most state awards require at least 6 credits). (collegefortn.org, onestop.utk.edu)
- Overlooking child care help—apply for Smart Steps early; co‑pays may be waived at lower incomes. (tn.gov)
How to Apply (step‑by‑step)
- FAFSA: studentaid.gov. Use your FSA ID; add your Tennessee college first; submit corrections promptly. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TSAA/HOPE/Promise/Reconnect tracking: Create your TSAC Student Portal via THEC/TSAC contact page; Financial Aid help line 800‑342‑1663. (tn.gov)
- Reconnect application and Navigator help: Tennessee Reconnect. (tnreconnect.gov)
- Child care assistance: One DHS Customer Portal or use the County Office Locator. Phone 1‑833‑772‑TDHS (8347). (tn.gov)
- Workforce training (WIOA/SNAP E&T): Find Local AJC. Offices are open Mon–Fri 8:00–4:30. (tn.gov)
Timelines You Can Expect
- FAFSA to aid offer: 2–6 weeks.
- TSAA decisions: Returning students awarded first after April 15; new awards made to the neediest applicants next (watch your TSAC portal). (collegefortn.org)
- Reconnect: Eligibility reviews typically 1–3 weeks after FAFSA + application; funds apply at billing. (tnreconnect.gov)
- WIOA/SNAP E&T: Eligibility and training plan approval 2–6 weeks depending on your area; ask your AJC about current ITA caps. (tn.gov)
- Child care (Smart Steps): County offices aim to decide within a few weeks; use the portal to upload documents and avoid delays. (tn.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work (Plan B options after each step)
- Pell/FAFSA issues: Ask the financial aid office for a professional judgment if your current income fell. Consider a payment plan while aid adjusts.
- TSAA waitlist: Ask your aid office for school‑based need grants or completion grants; keep FAFSA and TSAC portal updated. (collegefortn.org)
- HOPE ineligible: Start at a community college (HOPE available at 2‑year schools with different thresholds) or pursue the Nontraditional HOPE later. (collegefortn.org)
- Reconnect lost due to GPA/stop‑out: Meet a Navigator; many colleges offer “academic fresh start” or SAP appeals to regain aid. (tnreconnect.gov)
- WIOA denied or capped: Explore SNAP E&T tuition coverage and ask about short‑term credentials that are Pell‑eligible. (tn.gov)
- Child care waitlist: Ask your campus about CCAMPIS or sliding‑scale campus centers; call 211 to find local child care scholarships or emergency help. TN 211. (uwtn.org)
Diverse Communities: Getting the Right Door
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use your campus Title IX office and student parent services; if you experience bias in aid or services, ask to escalate to the school’s compliance officer and the THEC student complaint process. For community resources and referrals, call 211 or visit TN Disability Pathfinder for inclusive providers. (ajc.cis.tennessee.edu)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: Contact Vocational Rehabilitation at TDHS for training funding and accommodations; use Pathfinder to find supports. (tn.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Combine VA education benefits with state aid and the Helping Heroes grant (500–500–1,000/semester). The Tennessee Board of Regents has a veterans liaison who can help translate your service into college credit. Helping Heroes. (collegefortn.org, tbr.edu)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can receive state and federal grants if you meet FAFSA citizenship/eligible non‑citizen rules. For resettlement help in Middle TN, Catholic Charities offers case management and emergency assistance: 615‑352‑3087. (cctenn.org)
- Tribal citizens living in Tennessee: If you’re a citizen of a federally recognized tribe, check your nation’s higher‑ed scholarships. The Cherokee Nation (many citizens live in TN) accepts applications each spring; general contact 918‑453‑5000 ext. 5286. See the 2025/26 scholarship window (Mar 4–Jun 16, 2025). (cherokee.org)
- Rural single moms: Use the Virtual AJC and Reconnect Navigators. TCATs have 24 colleges and 400+ locations—ask admissions what’s closest. (tbr.edu)
- Single fathers: All programs above are gender‑neutral; the same rules and contacts apply.
- Language access: TDHS posts child‑care forms in Spanish, Arabic, and Somali, and DHS call centers can connect to interpreters. (tn.gov)
Local organizations that actually help
- American Job Centers (training funds, job placement, résumé help): Find Local AJC or East TN direct lines (Knoxville 865‑594‑5500, Maryville 865‑324‑5482, Morristown 423‑317‑1060, Sevierville 865‑286‑6384). (ajc.cis.tennessee.edu)
- Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville (emergency assistance): 615‑352‑3087. (cctenn.org)
- Goodwill Career Solutions (free job training, HiSET classes): Middle TN info 615‑742‑4151. (giveit2goodwill.org)
- YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee (domestic violence services, Family Learning Center): YWCA Nashville (24/7 DV help via site). (ywcanashville.com)
- TN 211 (statewide referral line for help with bills, food, and childcare leads): Dial 211. (uwtn.org)
Special situations you might face
- No high school diploma/GED: Tennessee Adult Education can help you earn a free HiSET or GED with vouchers that cover exam costs for TN residents once you pass the practice test. Call 800‑531‑1515 to be connected to your local program. (tn.gov)
- Child care cost too high even with Smart Steps: Ask the aid office whether your school participates in CCAMPIS (campus childcare grants for Pell‑eligible student parents). Availability varies by campus and federal funding cycles. (ed.gov)
Ten Tennessee‑specific FAQs
- Can I get Pell if I’m less than half‑time? Yes, Pell prorates based on “enrollment intensity,” and you can receive it even below half‑time if otherwise eligible. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- What SAI do I need for TSAA? 5000 or less and at least half‑time enrollment. File by April 15 for the best chance. (collegefortn.org)
- Does Reconnect cover books? It covers remaining tuition/mandatory fees (last‑dollar). Pell can be used for books and supplies if funds remain after charges. (tnreconnect.gov)
- I’m over 23 but want a bachelor’s at a 4‑year school. Can I use Reconnect? Only if you enroll in an associate program at that school; and it’s not last‑dollar there (the award is based on average community college tuition). (tnreconnect.gov)
- What are the HOPE amounts again? 2,250/semester∗∗(FR/SO)and∗∗2,250/semester** (FR/SO) and **2,850/semester (JR/SR). Two‑year colleges: $1,600/semester. Supplements may add more. (collegefortn.org)
- Do I have to be full‑time for HOPE? You can receive HOPE at half‑time or three‑quarter time, but amounts prorate. Check your school’s HOPE table. (onestop.utk.edu)
- How much can FSEOG pay in TN? It’s campus‑based: 100–100–4,000/year depending on funds and your need level. File FAFSA early and ask your FA office. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Where do I call for state aid questions? TSAC/THEC financial aid line 800‑342‑1663; TSAC.AidInfo@tn.gov. (tn.gov)
- Who approves childcare assistance? TDHS. Apply online or via your county office. Main line 1‑833‑772‑TDHS (8347). (tn.gov)
- I’m a veteran. Is there a state grant? Yes—Helping Heroes: 500–500–1,000 per semester, application deadlines: Sept 1/Mar 1/May 1. (collegefortn.org)
Reality checks, warnings, and pro tips
- Last‑dollar means these programs pay after Pell/other grants. If your Pell and HOPE already cover tuition, Reconnect/Promise may show $0 that term. That’s normal. (tnreconnect.gov, tbr.edu)
- Keep your enrollment at 6+ credits if you depend on TSAA/HOPE (unless your school confirms a special final‑term exception). (collegefortn.org, onestop.utk.edu)
- Many colleges won’t release a refund until after “census date” (end of add/drop). Plan book purchases accordingly.
- For SNAP E&T transportation, Tennessee’s plan reimburses in 25∗∗incrementsupto∗∗25** increments up to **100/month; keep receipts and submit on time. (wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Community college tuition is roughly $4,5xx per year in maintenance+mandatory fees (varies slightly by campus). Use that as your quick comparison point when stacking aid. (tbr.edu)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Tennessee Department of Human Services, THEC/TSAC, Tennessee Board of Regents, Federal Student Aid (USDOE), and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards (experience, expertise, authoritative sources, and rapid corrections). We verify program amounts, deadlines, and contacts and update quickly when state/federal policies change. This guide is not legal advice and we cannot guarantee individual outcomes.
Questions or corrections? Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48–72 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules, amounts, and deadlines can change during the year. Always confirm details directly with your school’s financial aid office, TSAC/THEC, TDHS, or your local American Job Center before making decisions. We include only official sources and well‑established nonprofits; if a link becomes inactive, use the agency’s main site search bar or call their main number.
Security note: Never email your Social Security number or full documents to unknown addresses. Use official portals (FAFSA, One DHS, TSAC) and secure uploads only.
Source notes (selected):
- Pell amounts and rules for 2025–26; SAI/enrollment intensity. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TSAA amounts, SAI threshold ≤ 5000, April 15 prioritization. (collegefortn.org)
- HOPE amounts, supplements, nontraditional rules. (collegefortn.org, onestop.utk.edu)
- Reconnect last‑dollar and four‑year caps; adult eligibility and Success Plan. (tnreconnect.gov)
- Wilder‑Naifeh (TCAT) amount. (collegefortn.org)
- UT Promise AGI threshold and minimum award. (tennessee.edu)
- FSEOG award range. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TEACH Grant sequestration (FY 2026). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- Community college cost examples. (nscc.edu, tbr.edu)
- Child care income/co‑pay chart; office locator. (tn.gov)
- SNAP E&T services and transportation reimbursement. (tn.gov, wioaplans.ed.gov)
- Veterans Helping Heroes. (collegefortn.org)
- P.E.O. PCE (up to $4,000). (peointernational.org)
Back‑up: For help by phone—TSAC/THEC Financial Aid: 800‑342‑1663; TDHS Child Care/Family Assistance: 1‑833‑772‑TDHS (8347); AJC statewide info: see Find Local AJC. (tn.gov)
— End of Guide —
🏛️More Tennessee Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Tennessee
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
