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State Benefit·Tennessee·🎓Education & Training

Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)

Last-dollar tuition reimbursement for active TN National Guard members pursuing a first bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited TN institution.

Verified May 12, 2026againsttn.gov

At a glance

Benefit type
Education & Training — Tennessee
Who it's for
National Guard
VA rating needed
No rating requirement
Where it applies
Tennessee
Last verified
May 12, 2026

What is Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)?

Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition) is a Tennessee education & training benefit for national guard. Last-dollar tuition reimbursement for active TN National Guard members pursuing a first bachelor's degree at a regionally accredited TN institution.

Who qualifies

National Guard
  • Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
  • Tennessee residency

How to apply

Apply through the official Tennessee agency.

Open application

Who is eligible

Eligibility

Currently serving in the Tennessee National Guard in good standing. Must attend an eligible regionally accredited TN public community college, public university, or private institution (private school reimbursement capped at the public institution average). Must apply for and use federal tuition assistance first (last-dollar reimbursement). Minimum 2.0 GPA (eligibility can be regained after dropping below threshold). Covers up to 120 credit hours or 8 semesters toward a first-time bachelor's degree. Graduate study is not covered. Must apply within 90 days of course completion.

Verified information & sources

Last verified: May 12, 2026

Official source: tn.gov

Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.

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Frequently asked questions about Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)

Who qualifies for Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)?▾
Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition) is for National Guard; Through veteran sponsor (any rating); tennessee residency. See the eligibility details on this page and confirm with the official source before applying.
How do I apply for Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)?▾
Apply through the official source linked on this page. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Where can I verify Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)?▾
Benefit rules and dollar amounts change, so always confirm current details at the official source linked on this page. A free, accredited county or state Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can also verify your eligibility and help you apply.

Other Tennessee Education & Training

Helping Heroes Grant (Education)

$1,000/semester (full-time, 12+ hours) or $500/semester (part-time, 6-11 hours) for up to 8 semesters for veterans with qualifying campaign medals.

Up to $8,000 total

In-State Tuition for Veterans

Veterans (or dependents) using VA education benefits pay in-state tuition at TN public institutions, regardless of formal state of residency.

$10,000-$20,000+/year savings

Early Class Registration for Veterans

Veteran students at TN public institutions may register for classes before the general student population (TCA 49-7-152).

Dependent/Spouse Tuition Waiver (Deceased/POW Veterans)

Waiver of tuition, maintenance fees, student activity fees, and registration fees at TN state institutions for dependents of veterans killed in action, deceased from service injuries, or POW/MIA.

$8,000-$13,000/year

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