Tennessee Reconnect sees 10,000 applicants in first year

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- More than 10,000 people have signed up for be a part of the Tennessee Reconnect tuition program in its first year.

The program provides free tuition for first time degree seeking students of any age to community or technical colleges. The average age of applicants is 34; 90 percent of people who applied have received assistance.

Governor Bill Haslam said,

“Tennessee is leading the nation in making college accessible and affordable to anyone who wants to earn a degree. By investing in our workforce through education, we are creating a solid foundation for our state’s economic future.”

The last day to sign up,for help with the fall semester is April 15, but the application is open year round.