East Tennessee State University is making it easier than ever to apply to college by waiving application fees during the month of September.
Prospective first-year and transfer students interested in ETSU can apply for free during September to celebrate Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month. This opportunity is for residents of Tennessee applying for fall 2026.
Interested applicants should visit www.etsu.edu/admissions/free-app.php. As students fill out the application, they should use the code TNFreeApp26 to have the standard $25 application fee waived.
ETSU is offering this opportunity in support of the Tennessee Higher Education Commission’s Path to College series of events. Students from across Tennessee can use the code to apply for free until Sept. 30.
“ETSU offers outstanding options for affordability, and we want students to explore what possibilities are waiting for them as Buccaneers,” said Timothy Lewis, director for undergraduate recruitment at ETSU. “Free Application Month is our way to build excitement and knowledge around the college application process. We're thrilled to help students in our state and region take the next step toward their higher education goals and apply to college, without worrying about application fees.”
ETSU will also celebrate “Why Apply” day on Friday, Sept. 19.
“We can’t wait to see current ETSU students and alumni use the hashtag #WhyApply on social media to share their own story and what makes ETSU so special. We hope their stories will encourage others about the value of a college education and show others just how life-changing college can be,” said Lewis.
Prospective students from out-of-state will also have a chance to apply for free during the month of October.
As undergraduate enrollment has grown, the university has earned major accolades for quality and affordability, as well as academic outcomes.
For more information, contact ETSU Undergraduate Admissions at admissions@etsu.edu or (423) 439-4213.
