Tennessee STRONG Act (National Guard Tuition)
Last-dollar tuition reimbursement for active TN National Guard members pursuing a first bachelor's or master's degree (or a TCAT certificate/diploma) at an eligible TN institution.
State BenefitTennesseeEducation & Training
Verified May 12, 2026 against tn.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 or master's degree (or a TCAT certificate/diploma) at an eligible TN institution.
Who qualifies
- National Guard
- Through veteran sponsor (any rating)
- Tennessee residency
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 130 undergraduate semester hours toward a first-time bachelor's degree. A first master's degree may also be reimbursed (up to 40 graduate semester hours; requires a 3.0 GPA and completion of military advanced leadership training). Must submit a complete application packet within 45 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.
How VetUnlock verifies benefitsFrequently 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)Up to $8,000 total$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.
- In-State Tuition for Veterans$10,000-$20,000+/year savingsVeterans (or dependents) using VA education benefits pay in-state tuition at TN public institutions, regardless of formal state of residency.
- Early Class Registration for VeteransVeteran 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)$8,000-$13,000/yearWaiver 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.