Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked QuestionsAdmissions & Applications
Students can apply for admission via the Future Tiger Portal
*TSU is not test-optional*
Yes, we require all first-time freshmen under the age of 21 to submit test scores. At Tennessee State University, we recognize the crucial role that standardized assessments play in our commitment to educational access. Requiring test scores enhances transparency in our admissions process. Given the significant differences in grading standards among high schools, standardized tests like the SAT and ACT serve as reliable benchmarks. For those students who submit strong scores, these achievements can distinguish them in a competitive applicant pool, showcasing their strengths alongside other impressive aspects of their applications.
Yes, you can change your major after submitting an admission application. You will fill out a Change of Major Form through the Future Tiger Portal. Updating your major is important so that your advisor can recommend the proper courses each semester.
No. Tennessee State University Undergraduate Admissions does not have an interview or resume submission requirement for any student type.
Yes. TSU has a specific process for students who want to defer their enrollment. Instead of a formal deferment, students need to complete a Change of Term form. It’s important to remember that if they decide to change their start date, they will lose any scholarships offered for that term, particularly merit scholarships, which are primarily available in the Fall and won’t be applicable for a Summer start. If you have any questions about this process or need more information, feel free to ask!
No. For Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision, Tennessee State does not consider demonstrated interest. While we welcome students to visit campus, participate in virtual visit programs, and contact our admissions team with questions, we do not track these interactions for the admissions review. We do not have a waitlist for undergraduate admission.
At TSU, our admissions process focuses on evaluating applicants based on their academic achievements, including transcripts and test scores. While we do note alumni affiliations as part of our commitment to fostering a vibrant student activities program, it’s important to clarify that having an alumni connection does not guarantee admission. Legacy applicants are held to the same rigorous standards as all other candidates.
Yes. Please note that only first year students are eligible to submit an appeal for denied admission. To initiate the appeal process, please submit a personal statement to the TSU Admissions Department at admissions@tnstate.edu.
The minimum high school coursework requirements include 4 years of English, 4 years of math, 4 years of science, 3 years of social studies, and 2 years of a foreign language.
We understand that natural disasters can create significant challenges for students and counselors. If you have any concerns, please reach out to us at admissions @tnstate.edu . We recognize that submitting required materials by our deadlines may not be possible during such difficult times, and we’re here to offer as much flexibility as we can. Most importantly, we’re committed to working with you on an individual basis to ensure you have the support you need.
No. An intent to enroll is a nonbinding expression of a student’s interest in a specific institution, free from contractual obligations. This process aids schools in planning for the academic year while granting students the flexibility to reconsider their choices without penalties. Students can explore various options or even take a gap year. Submitting an intent to enroll requires a $100, non-refundable fee. They have the freedom to evaluate their options until the final enrollment deadlines—August 1st for Fall, January 1st for Spring, and May 1st for Summer—ensuring they make the best decision for their individual circumstances.
No. Tennessee State University evaluates the highest test score date for determining admission and merit scholarship awards. Superscoring may appear advantageous, but it has the potential to perpetuate inequalities and misrepresent a student’s true capabilities, raising important questions about student readiness. Superscoring can lead to significant issues:
- Inflated Perception of Ability: Superscoring may not accurately reflect a student’s true abilities, creating a discrepancy between reported scores and actual performance.
- Increased Pressure: The pursuit of higher superscores can pressure students to take standardized tests multiple times. This can exacerbate test anxiety, particularly for those who find standardized formats challenging.
- Access Concerns: Not all students have equal access to test preparation resources or opportunities for retaking exams. This discrepancy can lead to inequities, favoring students from more privileged backgrounds who can afford additional test prep and multiple attempts.
Yes. Guaranteed admission is for first-time freshmen who meet the following admission requirements:
- Score a 19 or higher on the ACT or 990 or higher on the SAT
- Achieve a weighted GPA of 3.2 or higher regardless of test scores
Interested students: email recruitment@tnstate.edu to find your counselor
Applied and admitted students: You can find the contact information for your admissions counselor in the Future Tiger Portal. You will see this information near the top right-hand corner of the page.
Please email admissions@tnstate.edu for additional application materials (PDF only), change your decision plan, update your email and mailing addresses, etc. Please do not send documents about community engagement and leadership, personal essays, and letters of recommendation unless requested via the freshman appeal process.
Yes. All first-time freshmen are required to attend orientation. Transfer students with less than 60 earned credit hours must attend orientation. Transfer students with 60 or more earned credit hours need to schedule an advisement appointment with faculty in their academic department to discuss course registration.
Eligibility Verification for Entitlements Act: EVEA requires TSU to verify that persons seeking a state public benefit* are either a United States citizen or lawfully present in the United States. For many students, no additional action is needed for EVEA because it is automatically satisfied when completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). To learn more about EVEA and acceptable documents, please click here.
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Two doses of the MMR vaccine or proof of immunity to the disease
- Varicella (chicken pox): Two doses of the varicella vaccine or proof of immunity to the disease
- Meningococcal: One dose of the meningococcal vaccine if living in on-campus housing
- Hepatitis B: Only for health science students who will have patient contact
Note: You will not be allowed to register for classes until an acceptable form is on file in the Student Health Services Office. For exemption inquiries please email studenthealthservices@tnstate.edu.
Tennessee State University offers three main types of scholarship opportunities: institutional merit scholarships, TSU Foundation scholarships, and college- or department-specific scholarships.
- Institutional Merit Scholarships: As noted previously, these scholarships are administered by the Office of Institutional Merit Scholarships. Eligibility and application requirements vary by award. Some scholarships are awarded based on admission credentials, while others require a separate application.
- TSU Foundation Scholarships: After receiving their TSU identification number (T-number) and MyTSU email account, students should create an account and complete the scholarship application through AcademicWorks. This allows the system to match students with scholarships for which they may qualify. Students selected for a Foundation scholarship will be notified through their MyTSU email and AcademicWorks account.
- College and Department Scholarships: Application procedures and eligibility requirements vary by college, department, and scholarship. Students should visit their respective college or department’s webpage for application information and deadlines.
To retain a merit scholarship, a student must be enrolled in 15 credit hours each fall and spring semester and maintain the minimum cumulative GPA outlined in their agreement.
Frequently Asked QuestionsAcademics & Programs
Students interested in pursuing Cardiorespiratory Care Science, Dental Hygiene, or Nursing at Tennessee State University should select Cardiorespiratory Care Science Interest, Dental Hygiene Interest, or Nursing Interest as their major on the admission application. The initial major connected to each interest in the B.S. in Multidisciplinary Studies. Admission to these programs involves a two-step process: students must fulfill prerequisite coursework, submit program specific admission applications, complete admission examinations, and participate in an interview to be considered for these programs. Once a student is officially admitted into the program, they will be able to officially declare the intended major.
Yes, Tennessee State generally awards college credit for a score of 4 or 5 on an Advanced Placement exam or 6 or 7 on an International Baccalaureate exam, though required test scores vary depending on the exam. Official scores must be ordered and mailed to Undergraduate Admissions at Tennessee State University to be applied to your student record.
You can first contact your Academic Advisor to discuss a course substitution. This does require approval from the Academic Advisors as well. If you are concerned of a mistake on your transcript then you can fill out an Audit of Record form and email it to the Office of Records at records@tnstate.edu for a review.
Yes, all students pay the same activity fee and are encouraged to participate in campus events and organizations. We believe that involvement in these activities enhances the college experience and fosters a sense of community. We invite you to engage and make the most of your time at TSU!
Frequently Asked QuestionsTranscripts, Records & Residency
No, we require official transcripts. We do not recognize diplomas as official admission documentation. Transcripts provide a comprehensive view of a student’s academic history, making them a critical tool for admissions decisions. They detail all courses taken, grades received, credits earned, and the graduation date, ensuring a complete assessment of academic performance.
Yes, we require a final high school transcript that displays your graduation date from all admission student types. If you received FAFSA aid this is a required item. TSU will need official high school transcripts and verified test scores by July 1 from all admitted students who confirm enrollment at TSU.
Yes, TSU requires transcripts for all colleges attended if it is a Tennessee College students will fill out the Transcript Request Form (For CLOSED Institutions) to request a transcript from the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC).
No, Tennessee State University can only release Tennessee State University transcripts. TSU DOES NOT maintain or distribute transcripts from high schools, the GED test, or the HiSET test. To locate one of these, please get in touch with the high school, local board of education, or the Tennessee Department of Education . You can order your TSU transcript electronically or by mail via Parchment.
Yes. You must submit all previous college transcripts. (This includes Dual Enrollment coursework, Beauty/Barber colleges, and Trade schools). TSU uses these to assess your academic performance and ensure you meet admission requirements. Incomplete transcripts can lead to application delays or rejections. Complete records are also essential for financial aid eligibility; missing transcripts can jeopardize funding.
If transferring, submitting all transcripts is crucial for evaluating transferable credits, potentially saving you time and money. Don’t risk your future—submit all transcripts promptly and completely.
Please complete the Residency Appeal form and submit it with all required supporting documentation to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. The appeal alone is insufficient; missing documents will delay processing. All submitted documents become the property of Tennessee State and cannot be returned.
Due to high volume during registration, applications received after the priority date may not be processed before payment deadlines and will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications submitted after the last registration day will be considered for the next semester. You may leave blank any irrelevant questions. If you lack full documentation but work full-time in Tennessee, you may qualify for the “Work Rule,” allowing you to pay in-state rates for part-time classes only. Note that mere presence in Tennessee does not confer permanent residency status.
Student who did not attend TSU and need a letter stating non-attendance will need to complete an Enrollment Verification Form. This will need to be emailed to the Records Office (records@tnstate.edu) in order to produce a formal document stating that you have not enrolled or participated in courses at that institution.
No. All housing prepayments are non-refundable; HOWEVER, if a payment is made toward housing that begins in the Fall Semester, but the student then chooses to attend in Spring, the student can request the payment be transferred from Fall to the following Spring Semester ONLY.