Tennessee Reconnect is a state program that covers tuition and mandatory fees at Tennessee community colleges and TCATs (Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology) for adults who don't already have an associate's or bachelor's degree. If you qualify, your LPN education at a TCAT is free. This isn't a loan — it's a last-dollar grant that fills the gap after Pell and other aid. Tennessee has 27 TCATs across the state, most offering practical nursing programs at costs that are already low ($4,000–$8,000). With Reconnect + Pell, many students pay zero out of pocket.
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Tennessee resident. Not already enrolled in college. Don't have an associate's or bachelor's degree. Must enroll at an eligible community college or TCAT. Apply at TNReconnect.gov.
Tuition and mandatory fees after Pell Grant and other aid are applied (last-dollar). At a TCAT charging $4,000–$6,000 in tuition with a Pell Grant covering $7,395, Reconnect fills any remaining gap. Total out-of-pocket: $0 for most qualifying students.
Nashville — ~$4,500–$6,000
State capital location with HCA Healthcare and Vanderbilt clinical access. Nashville is one of the largest healthcare markets in the Southeast.
Memphis — ~$4,500–$6,000
Memphis healthcare market — St. Jude, Methodist Le Bonheur, Baptist Memorial. Second-largest TN city.
Knoxville — ~$4,500–$6,000
UT Medical Center and Covenant Health clinical network. East Tennessee's primary healthcare hub.
Statewide — ~$4,000–$6,000
27 TCATs cover every region of Tennessee. Rural locations often have less competition for seats. All Reconnect and Pell eligible.
Tennessee Reconnect — Covers remaining tuition after other aid. Apply at TNReconnect.gov.
Federal Pell Grant — Up to $7,395/year. At TCAT tuition levels, Pell often covers everything before Reconnect even kicks in.
Tennessee Student Assistance Award — State need-based grant. Stacks with Pell and Reconnect.
WIOA Workforce Grants — Contact your local American Job Center.
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Passing the NCLEX-PN is your final step to becoming licensed in Tennessee. 50 free questions with full answer explanations.
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