CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – Austin Peay State University has announced it will launch a new Tuition-Free at Austin Peay program for the fall semester in 2025. This will enable eligible Tennessee students to pursue their undergraduate education without the burden of tuition and related educational fees, according to a news release.

“Every student deserves the opportunity to pursue their dreams through higher education, regardless of their financial circumstances,” Dr. Mike Licari, Austin Peay president, said in the release. “This program reflects our deep commitment to making college accessible and affordable for Tennessee families. We want students to focus on their education and future, not worrying about how they’ll pay for tuition.”

The program will cover tuition and related educational fees for incoming freshmen and transfer students who meet these requirements:

  • They must be Tennessee residents or graduates of Fort Campbell High School.
  • Their household income cannot exceed $75,000 per year.
  • Students must qualify for the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship.
  • They must enroll as full-time students beginning in Fall 2025 or later.

The program doesn’t cover all costs of attending, however. Among the expenses not covered are:

  • Books and materials.
  • Housing.
  • Meal plans.

Tuition-Free at Austin Peay is a “last-dollar” program that covers any remaining tuition and related educational, service and student activity fees after all other financial aid, scholarships, and grants have been applied, APSU officials said.

“This initiative directly supports our strategic vision of being the region’s university of choice for those seeking to improve their lives,” said Dr. Maria Cronley, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “We’re removing obstacles so students can focus on what matters most: their education and future careers.”

Prospective students must apply to APSU, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and sign up for Governors Orientation by May 1, 2025, to qualify for this program.

For more information or to apply, visit www.apsu.edu/tuition-free or contact the Office of Admissions at 931-221-7661 or admissions@apsu.edu.