Tennessee State University's published cost of attendance is $23,828 per year, including $8,568 in-state tuition ($22,284 out-of-state), $10,120 for room and board, and $1,600 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $10,026 after financial aid, representing savings of $13,802 through grants, scholarships, and other assistance.
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Net prices are averages and may vary. Based on federal data for first-time, full-time students receiving aid.
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) | $23,828 |
| Tuition and Fees | $22,284 |
| Room and Board | $10,120 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,600 |
| Average Financial Aid (Grants and Scholarships) | -$13,802 |
| Average Net Price (What Families Pay) | $10,026 |
| Family Income | Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0–30k | $9,239 |
| $30–48k | $9,436 |
| $48–75k | $11,079 |
| $75–110k | $16,738 |
| $110k+ | $16,378 |
Tennessee State University's published cost of attendance is $23,828 per year, including $8,568 in-state tuition ($22,284 out-of-state), $10,120 for room and board, and $1,600 for books and supplies. However, the average student pays just $10,026 after financial aid, representing savings of $13,802 through grants, scholarships, and other assistance. This net price falls $4,067 above the peer median of $14,093, indicating higher relative costs compared to similar institutions.
The substantial financial aid savings reflect Tennessee State's commitment to affordability for its diverse student body, with aid targeting lower-income families who comprise the majority of enrollment. Net prices vary significantly by family income, ranging from $9,239 for families earning under $30,000 to $16,378 for those earning over $110,000. This progressive pricing structure demonstrates how financial aid concentrates resources toward students with the greatest need.
How much students borrow and whether debt is manageable given outcomes.
Debt is moderate relative to earnings. Manageable for most graduates, but higher-debt borrowers should plan carefully.
Tennessee State University graduates carry median debt of $27,000, above the peer median of $21,105 by $5,895, indicating higher borrowing relative to similar institutions. Debt levels range from $5,500 at the 25th percentile to $30,319 at the 75th percentile, showing variation in student borrowing patterns and financial aid effectiveness.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 means graduates' debt equals approximately 63% of their annual earnings, indicating manageable but significant debt burdens relative to income potential. Parent PLUS loans average $15,732 with monthly payments of $207, representing additional family borrowing beyond student debt levels.
The higher debt levels compared to peer institutions reflect the combination of longer time-to-degree completion, limited family resources among the largely Pell-eligible population, and the need for living expense support during enrollment. However, debt remains within reasonable parameters relative to earnings outcomes, particularly given the institution's role in serving first-generation and lower-income students who typically require more comprehensive financial support.
How cost compares to graduate earnings and value added.
Tennessee State University delivers positive return on educational investment despite moderate debt levels and earnings below peer institutions. Graduates earn $1,737 beyond expectations relative to similar students nationally, ranking at the 62.7th percentile for earnings uplift and demonstrating institutional effectiveness in supporting student success.
While median earnings of $42,730 fall $7,386 below the peer median of $50,116, this difference reflects the institution's open admissions model and diverse student population rather than poor outcomes. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 indicates manageable borrowing relative to income potential, though above optimal levels.
Students benefit from substantial financial aid averaging $13,802 per year, making the education accessible despite published costs. The investment value emerges primarily through access and mobility rather than absolute earnings levels, with particular strength for students who might otherwise lack degree completion opportunities.
Tennessee State University provides substantial financial aid support reflecting its mission to serve diverse economic backgrounds. The $13,802 average financial aid savings covers 57.9% of the published cost of attendance, reducing the $23,828 sticker price to a $10,026 average net cost.
This aid concentration targets the 51.8% Pell-eligible student population and 37.4% first-generation students who often lack family resources for college expenses. Net prices remain below $10,000 for families earning under $48,000 annually, demonstrating effective aid targeting toward students with the greatest financial need.
The progressive aid structure ensures that educational access remains achievable across income levels while concentrating resources where they provide maximum impact. Financial aid effectiveness reflects both federal Pell Grant eligibility among the student population and institutional grant programs designed to bridge affordability gaps.
