Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for graduate school?

To begin the graduate school application process, a prospective student must submit an application (either online, fax or via mail); submit $25 application fee (check or money order only); have two official copies of all relevant transcripts sent directly to the School of Graduate Studies and Research and submit relevant test scores.

Where do I submit my information?

Gradschool@tnstate.edu

Fax: 615-963-5963

Address: School of Graduate Studies and Research
Tennessee State University
3500 John A. Merritt Blvd.
Nashville, TN 37209

How do I get information about specific programs, program requirements and course descriptions?

Graduate Catalog

How do I get to the graduate school?

Directions

How can I find out what courses are being offered?

Courses

When are admissions decisions made?

The School of Graduate Studies and Research accepts new students for fall, spring and summer terms. We recommend that applicants' packages be complete no later than 60 days prior to the beginning of the term in which they seek admission. Once the application package is complete, it is forwarded to the graduate department where the admission decision is made. In cases where individuals apply for Nondegree admission, the graduate school will make the admission decision shortly after a complete application packet is received.

What are the admission deadlines?

Deadlines vary by program and by the term you plan to enter. For specific information consult the Graduate Catalog .

What types of financial aid are available? Where do I apply?

Financial aid applications and information are available at the TSU Financial Aid Website.
A limited number of graduate assistantships are available through individual departments. Graduate assistants must be available to work twenty hours per week. Graduate assistantships pay a small stipend plus 9 graduate credits for fall and spring terms only. Students may also access information about other funding from this link Fellowships/Scholarships.

As a state of Tennessee employee, I can receive a tuition waiver each term. How do I start the process? How do I register with a tuition waiver?

Normally, State employees request tuition waiver forms from their agency personnel officer. The employee's supervisor must sign the form and the form turned over to the TSU Bursar's Office on the day of registration.

How do I register for courses the first time?

New students must request a PIN number from the Graduate School. The student will need this PIN number, his Social Security number, and course and call numbers to register. Registration is via TIGER (telephone) or the TSU website.

How do I know what to take?

Each student in all programs has a faculty adviser. Faculty advisers can counsel students about which courses to take and in which order. Consult the TSU Graduate Catalog for additional information.

Do I need a TSU ID card?

A TSU ID card is essential. It not only identifies you as a TSU student, it gives you access to libraries and other university services. See the Student ID card page for details.

How do I arrange to use the TSU libraries?

To conduct library research on campus (excluding the 4 terminals in the library) students are required to open an account. Since you have already paid this fee as part of registration, all you need is to complete a computer services form. These forms are available in the computer lab, on Avon Williams on the second floor by the copiers.
To photocopy materials in the library you will need a special TSU debit card. These cards can be obtained at the third floor machine located at Avon Williams in the atrium by the public telephones. You will need a TSU student identification card to obtain the debit card.

How do I arrange for a computer account?

Once you have been accepted into the University as a student and have a student ID, take the ID to any computer lab and complete an application for account form.

I'm admitted and I've registered for the first semester. Is there anything else I should know to start?

All students are encouraged to get a copy of "Overview of the Graduate Student Career." This is available either through the department secretaries or the Graduate School.