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Tennessee State University

40.6(0)
VerifiedPublicEstd. 1912
Founded
1912
Type
Public
University Guide

About Tennessee State University

Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.

Tennessee State University is a public institute also known as TSU. It is labelled as a "high research" institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The institute is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist, and doctoral degrees.

Programs at Tennessee State University include various undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees, and has more than 400 full-time academic faculty. Some of the key features of the college are - 100+ student clubs, organizations, club sports and intramural teams. They also have service learning, Student-Government association, NPHC fraternities and sororities.

Admissions at Tennessee State University are quite selective with an annual acceptance rate of 55%. Fall and spring semesters are the main intake seasons at the university. Official transcripts, Standardized test scores to study in the US, evidence of funds and supporting documents are required to apply online with an application fee of 25 USD for undergraduates and 35 USD for graduates.

The students of the institute are also able to practice vocals, instrumental music, and performing arts. Apart from that, they can also experience the Hiram Van Gordon Memorial Gallery, lectures, exhibitions, film and concert series, and even the annual African Street Festival is open to the community of the university. Famous media personality Oprah Winfrey is one of the alumni of the university.

Tennessee State University Rankings

  • Ranked between #298 - #389 in National Universities by US News.
  • Ranked #154 in Top Performers of Social Mobility by US News.
  • Ranked between #154 - #209 in Top Public Schools by US News.
  • Ranked #31 in Historically Black Colleges and University by US News.
  • Ranked between #195 - #206 in Best Undergraduate Engineering Program by US News.
  • Ranked between #601 - 800th in US College Rankings by Times Higher Education.

Highlights

Type of University Public
Full-time Academic Faculty 400+
Student-faculty Ratio 12:1
Associate’s Program 1
Bachelor’s Degrees 40
Master’s Degrees 20+
Doctoral Degrees 7
Tuition and Fees (In-state) 7,251 USD
Tuition and Fees (Out-of-state) 20,607 USD
Room and Board 7,320 USD
Official Website https://www.tnstate.edu/index.aspx

Tennessee State University Campus and Accommodation

The students of the university are generously offered many facilities on the campus, some of them are cafeteria and cafés, bookstore, study lounges, Kean Hall athletic areas, wellness center, climbing wall, student organization offices, meeting rooms,& auditorium. They also provide the candidates physical education, Gentry Center health, stadium, convocation complex. Along with these, Career Development Center, academic support services. The university has an excellent Brown/Daniel Library which contains over 420,000 books, 1,500 microforms, 1,775 periodicals, and many online databases. The campus offers student housing in the USA.

Tennessee State University Residence

TSU offers single sex, co-ed, and apartment-style living facilities on-campus. The traditional halls are located on the main campus and are fully furnished. Usually, the students are provided with double-rooms.There are four apartment-style residence halls namely Mary Wilson Hall - for female First-Year Freshman, Lena B. Watson Hall - for First-Year Men, Henry Allen Boyd Hall - for males and Merl R. Eppse Hall - for females. Other than that, they also offer suite-style residence halls. In these halls, the shower and restroom areas are "jack-and-jill" style with the adjacent room. There are two suite-style residence halls namely Harriet Hodgkins Hale Hall and Wilma Rudolph Residence Center.

Residence types Cost per semester in USD
Wilson Hall, Watson Hall, Eppse Hall and Boyd hall Single Room - 3,742 Double Room- 1,979
Rudolph Hall and Hale hall Double Room- 2,104 Triple Room- 1,379

Tennessee State University Programs

UG at Tennessee State university has 41 programs. It offers 20 Masters and 7 doctoral degree programs. Doctoral degrees are offered in Biological Sciences, Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Engineering and Computational Sciences, Physical Therapy, Public Policy Administration, and Psychology.

Academic programs also have Honors College and Air Force ROTC / Aerospace Studies. The institute even offers distance and continuing education, off-campus programming, and non-traditional student evening and weekend programs.

Tennessee State University International application Process

The international students can apply for Undergraduate, Graduate and Doctoral Degrees. You can apply Online and the application fee is 25 USD.

Application Deadline: The deadlines to submit the applications as state by the university are as under:

Semester Deadlines
Spring Semester 1st November
Summer Semester (only for Transfer students) 1st April
Fall Semester 1st June

Admission Requirements:

  • Official academic transcripts and authorised school records.
  • English Language proficiency scores
    • TOEFL iBT 61
    • IELTS 5.0
    • Equivalent SAT/ACT scores.
  • Placement testing for candidates who have not had college-level English and/or Math.
  • Valid passport’s copy.
  • Financial support proof
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Required immunization proof
  • Letters of Recommendation

Tennessee State University Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance is a good resource to calculate the budget to study in the US. Managing finances can be a challenge that can be worked out through this resource.

Expense head Cost per semester in USD
Tuition Fee 8,528-8,690
Room and Board 5,967
Books & material 600
Personal Expenses 2,000
International Student Fee 100

Tennessee State University Scholarships

The number of scholarships to study in US that are offered to the international students by TSU are limited. The financial aids that are provided are designed to only assist, but they do not completely cover the educational expenses.

  • Malick Badjie International Scholarship valued at 2,500 USD is given to a full-time undergraduate student with a minimum GPA of 3.5 (90%) The students can apply for the outside scholarships too.
  • Work while study: There are few job opportunities available for the students of TSU like Resident Assistant (RA) Applications which are accepted during: February - March. Or Graduate Assistant (GA) Applications which are live on-campus positions.

Tennessee State University Alumni

According to the institute, once a Big Blue Tiger, always a Big Blue Tiger, so they keep their connection with their alumni. From annual Homecoming celebrations, class reunions to donor events and volunteer activities, the gates of the university welcome their alumni forever. They can also request for their transcript.

The university is proud to have remarkable personalities as a part of their alumni in every field, such as - Art and Entertainment, Athletics, Business, Education, Government, Engineering and Science, Healthcare, Law, and even Military. Some of these notable alumni of TSU are mentioned below:

  • Oprah Winfrey : Media Mogul, Talk Show Host, Actress, Producer, and Philanthropist
  • Wyomia Tyus: Olympic Gold Medalist
  • Gen Lloyd Newton: General, United States Air Force (Retired)
  • Alvin Crawford, Professor Emeritus, Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Cincinnati
  • Glenda Glover, President, Tennessee State University

Tennessee State University Placements

The institute has their own career development center that provides internships, career fairs, campus recruiting, scholarships and several other facilities. They also hold different types of events to encourage the students' professional growth. The students can find internships and jobs in the USA through University Career Center, The Vault Login, Handshake By TigerTRACK.

Depending on the industry and company, the internships can be either paid or unpaid, usually most of them pay regular hourly wages or offer a stipend. Events like Back to Campus Career Fair, JCPenney Suit Up Event, TSC Career Center Fashion Show, are organised at the University. According to PayScale, the average salary of a Tennessee State University Graduate is around 64,283 USD.

Therefore, the Tennessee State University is considered as one of the most reputed institutions of the USA that offers various academic programs and excellent career opportunities to their students. Thus, the students with the exceptional guidance of TSU are able to achieve a proper work-life balance, and establish themselves successfully in the professional world.

FAQS

Ques- How much is the Non-refundable payment for housing in TSU?

Ans. In TSU, all the students who want to reside on-campus have to pay 100 USD which is non-refundable.

Ques- Other than the resident halls are there any apartment options available at TSU?

Ans. Yes, two other apartment options available for the students of TSU are NRC Apartments and Ford Apartments.

Ques- Is TOEFL or IELTS (English language proficiency test) mandatory for international students admission in TSU?

Ans. Yes, if the candidate's native language is not English, they need to submit official results of one of the recognised tests like ToEFL or IELTS to become eligible for admission at TSU.

Ques- What are the TSU Test codes for GMAT, GRE, SAT, and TOFEL?

Ans. The TSU Test Codes are GMAT: 1803, MAT: 1753 and TOEFL: 1803

Ques- Is there any Off-campus housing option for TSU?

Ans. Yes, the students can also live in apartments close to the campus. For more details, they can contact the Office of Diversity and International Affairs (DIA).

Ques- How can we apply for the GA position at TSU?

Ans. To apply for the GA position at TSU, email the resumes and letters of interest along with a completed graduate school GA application to Erica Lewis. Email ID: [email protected].

Ques- How much is the median starting salary of the alumni of TSU?

Ans. According to US News, the median starting salary of the alumni of TSU is around 49,500 USD.

Courses & Fees

Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way

Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.

Courses

43

Fee from

₹15,89,275.62

Exams

IELTS · TOEFL

Showing 5 of 31 bachelors

Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 15.3 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 16,350 /Yr
Fee trendTuition progression
Official Program Page
Admission Guide

Admission Process

With an acceptance rate of 55%, Tennessee State University is moderately competitive in its admissions. Some of the most popular courses by TSU include Public Administration and Management, Electrical and Computer Engineering, CISE and many more. Tennessee State University follows a semester-based calendar and accepts applications for its fall and spring academic sessions.

The deadlines for the UG courses spring session is November 1 and fall is June 1. The GMAT score is an optional one, however, GRE scores are required for most of the master's programs. Other important documents include a health certificate, proof of enough funds,  and a US student visa. The average tuition fee of the popular programs is around 8,528-8,690 USD. Graduates from this institute are working with top companies and are earning around 64,283 USD annually.

Highlights

Application portal UG and PG applicants both have to submit their online applications.
Application Fee UG: 25 USD
PG: 35 USD
Acceptance rate 55%
Average SAT score 860-1065
Average ACT score 17 and 21, at an average of 18
Mode of payment Credit cards only.
Academic Calendar Semester-based.
Intake Seasons Fall/Spring.
Work experience Required for graduate programs
Financial Aids Loans, Grants, Scholarships and others are available.

Tennessee State University Admission Deadlines

Programs at Tennessee State University are offered in two intakes of fall and spring. All the students are requested to submit their applications prior to the deadlines for them to be considered for admission. Any late application will not be entertained by the university. Below are the deadlines for different enrolment seasons:

Term/Semester UG PG
Spring November 1 November 1
Fall June 1 July 1
Summer - April 1

Tennessee State University International Student Admissions

Tennessee State University accepts international applicants with the assurance that they have completed their secondary education with all the certificates, degrees, or diplomas in the original copy of the issue to be sent directly to undergraduate admissions. The university also requires certified copies of all past secondary records. Submit official transcripts from each post-secondary institution previously attended. 

The admission process is the same for both international and domestic applicants. However, international applicants need to meet some additional requirements.

Basic Admission Requirements:

  • Students are highly recommended to submit their ACT/SAT scores. 
  • International applicants require English language proficiency requirements.
  • Statement of purpose 
  • Academic transcripts
  • Copy of their passport.
  • Letter of recommendation 

English Language Requirements

The English Language test scores like TOEFL, IELTS etc. are required by the applicants to be submitted during the time of admissions if they are hailing from a non-native English-speaking country. The minimum score of different tests is as follows:

English Language Test Minimum Score
Internet-based TOEFL  61
IELTS 5

Visa Process for International Students

International students planning to enter the United States and study at Salus University need to apply for a US student visa, once their application has been accepted by the university. They are required to obtain a Form I-20 (F-1 Visa), or a Form DS- 2019 (J-1 Visa) to enter and/ or remain in the USA, which is issued by the university officials after the applicants receive their letter of acceptance, which is after being formally accepted to the university.

Applicants will be required to meet the financial obligations for pursuing a full course of study for at least one academic year, which is documented in the SEVIS form.

After receiving the required I-20 or DS-2019 Form and the 350 USD SEVIS fee payment, applicants are required to apply to the U.S. Embassy in their home country for their visa interview with the following required documents:

  • Letter of acceptance from The Salus University
  • The I-20 or DS-2019 Form
  • SEVIS fee receipt
  • Evidence of financial support
  • Valid passport
  • Two photos
  • Health certificate
  • Transcripts from previous academic institutions attended

Applicants must prepare well for the visa interview and should try to maintain it brief and appropriate.

Tennessee State University Undergraduate Admissions

The university offers about 30 UG courses. The applications must be submitted before the desired deadline. A good GPA and SAT/ ACT score is an important aspect for UG courses at TSU. Supporting documents include letters of recommendations, transcripts and test scores that must be shared while applying.

Application Portal: University Application Portal.

Application fee: 25 USD (Non-refundable).

Academic Requirements: SAT and ACT scorecards are required for the admission process along with the original or certified copies of all domestic secondary records or done outside the USA including their diplomas and degree certificates. 

Average Score type Score required
Average ACT score 18
25th percentile ACT score 16
75th percentile ACT score 20
Test Average Score 25 percentile score 75 percentile score
SAT Math 460 430 510
SAT EBRW 440 420 480
SAT Composite 900 850 990

Tennessee State University Graduate Admissions

The university offers some 32 graduate courses for its international aspirants seeking to study in the USA. Different courses require different academic requirements. However, most of the courses require you to submit the GRE or GMAT score.

Application Portal: The applications are gathered by graduate online applications.

Application Fee: 35 USD (Non-refundable).

Popular PG courses of TSU and their specific admission requirements are detailed below:
Courses Academics Required
EMBA GMAT score
MS in Computer Science GRE and minimum of 2.75 GPA
MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering GRE, a minimum of 3.0 GPA and a bachelor in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
PhD in CISE ( Computer and Information System Engineering) Minimum GPA of 3.0
MS in Biology Minimum GPA of 3.0

For admission at the Tennessee State University students need to focus on their GPAs as well as their specific test scores required by the University. The application should be submitted timely as well. No late applications are considered by the University. International students have to take special care of their English Proficiency tests and passport along with the required documents.

The comprehensive reviewing of an application depends greatly upon the overall academic and non-academic background, outside the class learning and timely application submission along with the required documents. The admission decisions are released within 2 - 3 weeks of application submission. Overall, the acceptance at the university has been average. Be it be on the basis of test scores or extensive admission requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Ques: What are the requirements to get into Tennessee State University?

Ans: A minimum high school grade point average of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Students should have taken either the ACT or the SAT exam.

Ques: What is the acceptance rate at Tennessee State University?

Ans: Tennessee State University admissions is less selective with an acceptance rate of 65%.

Ques: Is Tennessee State University a good school?

Ans: Tennessee State University’s educational quality places it below average on our nationwide Overall Best Colleges ranking.

Ques: Is Tennessee State a black college?

Ans: Tennessee State University is a public and historically black land-grant university in Nashville, Tennessee.

Ques: Do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS for admission to Tennessee State University?

Ans: If your native language is not English, you must submit official results of one of the following tests.

Ques: What is the total cost of attendance? How much do I need to have on my certification of finances?

Ans: The total attendance cost for international students for the 2013-14 academic year is approximately 30,500 USD.

Ques: What is the certification of finances? Why do I need to send one?

Ans: If you are not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, you must certify that you have sufficient financial resources to study in the United States. You must submit the certification of finances in order for TSU to create documents necessary, including the I-20, for F1 visa application.

Ques: What is the University's Test code for GMAT/GRE/SAT/TOEFL?

Ans: Test Codes for Tennessee State University

  • GMAT: 1803
  • GRE: 1803
  • MAT: 1753
  • TOEFL: 1803
Placements & Recruiters

Tennessee State University Placement Details

Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.

Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in Nashville, Tennessee, United States.

Recruiters
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Salary Metrics
0/2
Placement Metric

Highest Package

N/A

Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.

Placement Metric

Average Package

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Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.

Placement information is currently limited.

More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.

Rankings over the years

Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.

2023

Highlights
2023
  • Computer Science: #34 in country
  • Top source: US News
  • 1 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Computer Science
  • 1 ranking record in 2023

2024

Highlights
2024
  • Best overall country rank: #83
  • Engineering: #65 in country
  • Top source: US News
  • 2 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 1 ranking record in 2024

2025

Highlights
2025
  • Psychology: #14 in country
  • Top source: US News
  • 3 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Engineering, Psychology
  • 1 ranking record in 2025

Contact Information

3500 John A Merritt Blvd, Nashville, TN 37209

+1-615-963-5111

Student Reviews & Ratings

Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary

Overall score

40.6/10
Top Rated

Based on 0 ratings