10 Cheapest and Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee offers incredible value for students looking to earn a college degree without taking on massive debt. Thanks to a well-developed network of public universities, regional institutions, and career-focused colleges, you’ll find plenty of affordable options across the state. Whether you’re interested in health sciences, education, business, or tech, there’s a school that fits your goals and your budget.

What sets Tennessee apart is how far your dollar stretches. Innovative programs like Tennessee Promise (for high school grads attending community college) and Tennessee Reconnect (for adults returning to college) help many students attend college tuition-free. Even four-year public universities in Tennessee often charge rates well below the national average.

If you’re hoping to avoid student loan debt while still earning a high-quality degree, Tennessee should be at the top of your list. Here’s a look at the 10 most affordable colleges in the state, all offering great programs at accessible prices.

Why You Should Get a Degree in Tennessee

Tennessee isn’t just affordable; it’s also full of opportunity. The state is home to top-tier research institutions, respected public universities, and career-focused community colleges. With programs like Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect, the state is actively removing cost barriers for both traditional and nontraditional students.

But affordability isn’t the only perk. Tennessee’s central location puts you close to major cities like Atlanta, Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville, which are hubs for industries like healthcare, music business, automotive manufacturing, and education. Whether you’re into tech or teaching, business or biology, there are strong job markets waiting for you here.

With a relatively low cost of living, beautiful natural landscapes, and a range of campus styles from big-city universities to mountain-town colleges, Tennessee gives you everything you need to succeed, without breaking the bank.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee

Tennessee makes earning a college degree without overwhelming debt easier than ever. From major public universities to smaller regionally focused campuses, the state’s higher education system offers great academic value at remarkably low tuition rates. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an adult returning to school, Tennessee’s institutions combine affordability with real-world career pathways.

Many of these schools also benefit from programs like Tennessee Promise (for first-time, full-time students) and Tennessee Reconnect (for adult learners), which can cover tuition for eligible community or technical college residents. But even beyond those programs, the state’s four-year universities provide some of the lowest in-state rates in the Southeast, often without sacrificing program quality, student support, or job market relevance.

Here are 10 of the most affordable public colleges in Tennessee to consider:

Austin Peay State University

Located in Clarksville, Austin Peay offers one of the lowest tuition rates among four-year public universities in Tennessee. Its strong support for military-affiliated students and career-focused majors makes it especially attractive if you’re connected to the nearby Fort Campbell community.

Main Courses:

Programs in nursing, education, computer science, creative writing, and military science, with additional support for adult and nontraditional learners.

Pros:

• Strong military support and veteran services
• Affordable degree options with modern facilities
• Active scholarship programs

Cons:

• The Clarksville location may feel isolated from larger cities
• Fewer options for cultural experiences off-campus

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$6,816 — One of the most affordable public university rates statewide.

Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University, Nashville’s only public university, combines rich HBCU heritage with strong urban career opportunities. It’s a solid option if you want to be in the heart of a major city while still paying modest tuition.

Main Courses:

Business, agriculture, engineering, health sciences, music, and education.

Pros:

• Culturally rich HBCU environment
• Close ties to employers in Nashville
• Vibrant student life and music programs

Cons:

• Budget and facility challenges in recent years
• Student services can be hit or miss

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$7,128 — A low-cost entry into Tennessee’s largest job market.

Middle Tennessee State University

MTSU, located in Murfreesboro, is the state’s largest undergraduate university. With standout programs in the recording industry and aerospace, it’s especially appealing if you’re pursuing a creative or tech-focused degree.

Main Courses:

Aerospace, media arts, business, recording industry, education, and concrete industry management.

Pros:

• Extensive program variety
• Strong industry-aligned degrees
• Located just outside Nashville

Cons:

• Large size can limit personalized attention
• Competitive entry for popular majors

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$7,344 — Great value for access to nationally recognized academic programs.

East Tennessee State University

ETSU in Johnson City offers Appalachian charm and one-of-a-kind academic programs, especially in health sciences and regional arts. The scenic setting is ideal if you enjoy nature and a tight-knit campus community.

Main Courses:

Health sciences, education, digital media, bluegrass music, and Appalachian studies.

Pros:

• Beautiful mountain campus
• Unique cultural and academic programs
• Strong community and student support

Cons:

• Remote location limits off-campus opportunities
• Fewer large-scale recruiting events

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$7,486 — A smart choice for students drawn to smaller cities and regional specialties.

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

UTC delivers University of Tennessee system prestige in a walkable, scenic city along the Tennessee River. The school pairs career-oriented majors with an active student life and access to urban employers.

Main Courses:

Business, engineering, computer science, education, and health sciences.

Pros:

• Urban campus near outdoor adventure spots
• Part of the respected UT system
• Affordable living costs compared to other cities

Cons:

• Some outdated campus infrastructure
• Limited parking and space constraints

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$7,992 — A competitive price for a degree from a UT-affiliated institution.

University of Memphis

Situated in one of Tennessee’s largest cities, the University of Memphis offers an urban, research-driven college experience with strong ties to business, logistics, and music industries.

Main Courses:

Business, nursing, music industry, education, and tech-focused programs through the FedEx Institute of Technology.

Pros:

• Vibrant campus atmosphere in a major metro
• Excellent connections to Memphis employers
• Strong Division I athletics and student life

Cons:

• Higher cost of living in urban areas
• Campus safety can be a concern in some neighborhoods

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$8,352 — Strong value considering the urban setting and professional access.

University of Tennessee at Martin

Located in rural northwest Tennessee, UT Martin combines personalized learning with the resources of the UT system, offering a welcoming atmosphere especially for first-generation and rural students.

Main Courses:

Agriculture, business, education, engineering, and nursing.

Pros:

• Friendly, close-knit campus
• Strong ties to local industry and agriculture
• Small class sizes and accessible faculty

Cons:

• Remote location limits entertainment and internship access
• Requires travel for city-based opportunities

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$8,378 — Affordable access to a respected public university with rural strengths.

Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech in Cookeville is a top choice for STEM-focused students looking for a solid return on investment. Its engineering and technology programs consistently rank among the region’s best.

Main Courses:

Engineering, nursing, agriculture, business, and education.

Pros:

• Excellent job placement rates in tech fields
• Modern labs and hands-on learning
• Affordable college-town lifestyle

Cons:

• A rural location may feel limiting socially
• Smaller alumni network in creative industries

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$8,520 — Great value for a tech-focused public university.

Lane College

Lane is a small, private HBCU located in Jackson that provides a faith-based, supportive college experience with a focus on academic excellence and spiritual growth.

Main Courses:

Business, education, religious studies, and criminal justice.

Pros:

• Personalized attention and mentoring
• Strong Christian values and a close-knit community
• Emphasis on leadership development

Cons:

• Fewer program offerings than larger schools
• Limited campus amenities and facilities

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$9,270 — Affordable for a private college rooted in HBCU tradition.

Le Moyne-Owen College

Le Moyne-Owen, a private HBCU in Memphis, offers an intimate learning environment deeply connected to civil rights history and community service.

Main Courses:

Business, social work, urban leadership, education.

Pros:

• Historic legacy and cultural relevance
• Small class sizes with dedicated faculty
• Strong community engagement opportunities

Cons:

• Some limitations in specialized academic tracks
• Smaller campus with fewer amenities

Average Annual In-State Tuition:

$10,766 — A reasonable cost for a private, mission-driven institution in Memphis.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Affordable Tennessee Colleges

Getting into one of Tennessee’s affordable colleges is generally straightforward, but you’ll need to meet a few key criteria, especially if you want to qualify for state aid programs like Tennessee Promise or Tennessee Reconnect. Most schools have similar baseline requirements, but each one may add its own deadlines and application steps, so it’s smart to start early and double-check what your chosen college needs.

Tennessee Diploma Verification

You’ll need to complete a recognized high school diploma or equivalent. Public universities typically expect you to meet Tennessee’s 22-credit graduation requirement, covering English, math, science, social studies, and electives.

State Application Completion

You can apply directly through each college’s website or use statewide platforms like the Tennessee Electronic Application System (TEAS). Application fees usually range from $25 to $50, but many colleges waive the fee if you qualify based on financial need.

ACT Score Submission

Most Tennessee colleges use ACT scores, not SAT, for both admissions and scholarships. The average required composite score ranges from 18 to 21 for affordable public universities, with higher requirements for competitive majors.

Transcript Records Transfer

Your high school must send official transcripts to each college you apply to. These should show completed coursework, GPA, and graduation date to meet both admission and state scholarship criteria.

FAFSA Priority Filing

To unlock Tennessee’s generous state aid, including Tennessee Promise, Reconnect, HOPE Scholarships, and the Tennessee Student Assistance Award, submit the FAFSA early, ideally before the February 1 priority deadline.

How Do Tennessee College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Tennessee has carved out a reputation as one of the most affordable states for college students. In-state residents can attend community and technical colleges tuition-free thanks to initiatives like Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Reconnect. But even at four-year public universities, costs remain about 10–15% below the national average.

And it’s not just about tuition. Tennessee’s overall cost of living, especially outside major cities, is relatively low. That means your budget stretches further for housing, food, and transportation. Combine that with HOPE Scholarships and school-specific grants, and you’ll likely find Tennessee’s public colleges offer strong value without forcing you into long-term student debt.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Affordable Tennessee Colleges?

Tennessee can still be a cost-effective option if you’re applying from outside the U.S.. International tuition at public universities like Tennessee Tech, Austin Peay, and UT Chattanooga typically ranges from $10,000 to $19,000 per year, a fraction of what you’d pay at elite private schools or in high-cost states like California or New York.

While international students aren’t eligible for state scholarships like Tennessee Promise or HOPE, many schools offer merit-based international scholarships, assistantships, and payment plans to ease the financial burden. When budgeting for your total cost of attendance, be sure to account for extra costs such as health insurance, SEVIS fees, and potential visa-related expenses.

How Does University of the People Compare with the Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee?

If you’re looking for maximum flexibility and ultra-low cost, University of the People (UoPeople) offers an alternative to even Tennessee’s most budget-friendly schools. Unlike traditional colleges that charge tuition, UoPeople is tuition-free; you’ll only pay an application fee and $120 per undergraduate course assessment. That puts a full degree at around $4,800, significantly cheaper than even the lowest-cost options in Tennessee.

UoPeople is 100% online, so you won’t need to relocate or commute. That’s a huge benefit if you need to work full-time or manage family responsibilities while studying. Courses are asynchronous, meaning you can complete your weekly assignments on your own schedule.

While many Tennessee colleges are regionally accredited, UoPeople holds national accreditation through the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). California’s Bureau also approves it for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and is WASC-accredited, which gives it extra credibility among online institutions.

If you need maximum affordability and flexibility and are comfortable studying online, UoPeople might be the right fit.

Ready to Choose the Most Affordable College?

Choosing the right college isn’t just about picking the cheapest option. You’ll want to consider your career goals, preferred learning environment, and personal schedule. Tennessee offers exceptional value with its low in-state tuition, Promise and Reconnect programs, and wide range of degree options from urban research campuses to rural liberal arts colleges.

Make sure you:

• Compare total costs (including room, board, and fees)
• File your FAFSA early for financial aid
• Research scholarships and tuition waivers
• Think about long-term value, not just short-term savings

Whether you choose a Tennessee public university or a tuition-free option like University of the People, you’re investing in a future with more opportunities and fewer financial burdens.

FAQs

What is the cheapest four-year college in Tennessee?

Austin Peay State University with in-state tuition of around $6,816 per year.

Which Tennessee colleges have the lowest out-of-state tuition?

Community colleges often offer lower out-of-state rates, but among four-year schools, institutions like UT Martin and ETSU tend to be more affordable than larger flagships.

What GPA requirements exist for Tennessee’s affordable colleges?

Most public universities require a GPA of 2.5–3.0 for standard admission, though scholarship programs may require a higher GPA.

Are there affordable online degree options in Tennessee?

Yes, schools like UT Martin, Tennessee Tech, and MTSU offer online programs. For even lower costs, consider University of the People’s tuition-free online degrees.

How affordable are Tennessee’s private colleges?

Some private colleges like Lane and Le Moyne-Owen offer competitive rates under $11,000 per year, especially for in-state and minority students.

Which Tennessee colleges offer work-study opportunities?

Most public institutions participate in the federal work-study program. Check the FAFSA and ask your college’s financial aid office for availability.