The amount of a Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship is the same as the amount of a Tennessee HOPE Scholarship. For students enrolled full time at eligible four-year institutions, the award amount is up to $2,250 per semester as a freshman and sophomore and up to $2,850 per semester as a junior and senior.
Scholarship Details
- Students attending eligible four-year institutions may receive up to $2,250 per semester as freshmen and sophomores and up to $2,850 per semester as juniors and seniors
- Students attending eligible two-year institutions may receive up to $1,600 per semester
- Total financial aid, including this scholarship, cannot exceed the institution's total cost of education and the award may be reduced if that limit is exceeded
- Eligible programs must be designated as Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs by the U.S. Department of Education
Eligibility Criteria
- Be classified as a Tennessee resident by the Tennessee Board of Regents
- Complete high school at a Tennessee school in accordance with the student's Individualized Education Program
- Receive a qualifying credential, including a high school diploma, occupational diploma or certificate, special education diploma, transition certificate, or IEP certificate
- Be admitted to and enroll in an eligible postsecondary institution and approved program within 16 months of completing high school
- Apply for the Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship each year
Application Process
- Apply for admission to an eligible postsecondary institution offering an approved Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Program
- Complete and submit the Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship application
- Complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate academic year
- Submit both applications by the applicable deadline of September 1 for the fall semester, March 1 for the spring semester, or May 1 for the summer semester
- Reapply for the Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship and complete the FAFSA each academic year to maintain eligibility
The Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship is a program designed to assist students with intellectual disabilities who have completed high school and enroll in an individualized program of study of up to four years at an eligible postsecondary institution.
