Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Tennessee Higher Education Commission

Overview

The Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship supports students with intellectual disabilities who have completed high school and pursue an individualized postsecondary program. The program funds up to four years of study at eligible institutions and aligns award levels with the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship. It is intended to promote access to college programs tailored to individual needs and goals. Administration and class status determinations are handled by the enrolling institution.

Description: The Tennessee STEP UP Scholarship assists students with intellectual disabilities who complete high school and enroll in an individualized postsecondary program of study lasting up to four years.

• Supports students with intellectual disabilities transitioning to postsecondary education.
• Funds programs up to four years at eligible institutions.
• Coordinates with institutional policies for class status and enrollment.

Award Value

The STEP UP Scholarship award amount follows the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship scale and varies by institution type and class status. Award disbursement is subject to the institutionally defined cost of education and may be reduced if total financial aid exceeds that cost. Institutions determine a student’s class status for award calculation purposes. Students should confirm award amounts and reductions with their financial aid office.

Award Value: For eligible four-year institutions, awards are up to $2,250 per semester for freshmen and sophomores and up to $2,850 per semester for juniors and seniors. For eligible two-year institutions, awards are up to $1,600 per semester. The STEP UP award amount is the same as the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship and may be reduced if combined financial aid exceeds the institutionally defined total cost of education.

• Award parity with the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship.
• Different per-semester amounts for two- and four-year institutions.
• Award reductions possible if total aid exceeds institutional cost of attendance.

Eligibility

Eligibility is limited to Tennessee residents who meet state residency classification and program-specific requirements. Applicants must have completed high school in Tennessee consistent with their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and earned an approved diploma, certificate, or transition credential. Candidates also must be admitted to and enroll in an eligible postsecondary program at an eligible institution. Applicants should review state statute exclusions and institutional admissions policies to confirm eligibility.

Eligibility:

• Not be ineligible for the scholarship under § 49-4-904.
• Be a Tennessee resident as classified by the Tennessee Board of Regents.
• Complete high school in Tennessee according to the student’s IEP and receive 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 program.
• Apply for the STEP UP Scholarship each academic year.

• Residency and credential requirements are mandatory.
• Admission to an eligible program is required; check institutional eligibility lists.
• Annual reapplication is required to maintain the award.

Application

Applicants and parents must complete the STEP UP Scholarship application as part of the award process. In addition to the STEP UP application, recipients are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each academic year. Renewal depends on annual application and continued enrollment in an eligible program. Financial aid offices can advise on deadlines and documentation required.

Application Timeline: Applicants must enroll in an eligible postsecondary program no later than 16 months after completing high school, and recipients must submit the STEP UP application and the FAFSA for each academic year to remain eligible.

• Complete the STEP UP application (student and parent participation required).
• Submit the FAFSA annually.
• Enroll within 16 months of high school completion to maintain eligibility.