Chattanooga, September 17, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is hosting Free Application Week from September 15 to 20. During this period, students can apply without the usual fees by using the code FREEAPP26 in the application portal. This initiative is part of the Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month, aimed at encouraging students to explore their college options while reducing financial barriers. Positive responses highlight the impact of fee waivers on application decisions, fostering a more diverse student body by making college more accessible.
Chattanooga
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) is offering Free Application Week from September 15 to September 20. During this period, students can apply to UTC without paying the standard application fees of $30 for undergraduate programs and $35 for graduate programs. To take advantage of this offer, applicants need to enter the code FREEAPP26 in the application portal.
This initiative is part of the Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month, where various colleges and universities throughout the state waive application fees during September. The main goal of this initiative is to encourage students to explore their college options while reducing the financial barriers associated with applying to multiple schools.
Benefits of Free Application Week
By participating in Free Application Week, UTC aims to help prospective students overcome hurdles that often limit their college choices. This is particularly important in ensuring that students have access to a variety of educational opportunities throughout the state of Tennessee. The initiative has received positive feedback, as many students feel that the fee waiver has made the decision to apply easier.
Student Experiences
One recent example includes a student, Cannon Schultz, who graduated from Soddy Daisy High School. He noted that the free application process influenced his choice to pursue further education at UTC. His experience reflects the larger trend of increased applications and interest in UTC during Free Application Week.
Background Context
The Free Application Week at UTC aligns with a statewide initiative designed to boost college enrollment among high school seniors. By providing a no-cost application option, this program aims to encourage more students to consider higher education, particularly from underrepresented groups who may find application fees prohibitive.
The ongoing effort to increase college enrollment in Tennessee highlights the importance of accessibility in education. Initiatives like Free Application Week help demystify the application process and encourage students to take that crucial first step toward their future.
Conclusion
As Free Application Week unfolds at UTC, the university hopes to see a significant uptick in applications from prospective students. Encouragingly, efforts to lower financial barriers to education may contribute to a more diverse and engaged student body in the coming year.
FAQ
- What is Free Application Week at UTC?
- It is an event from September 15 to 20 where UTC waives application fees for students applying to the university.
- How can students apply for free?
- Students must enter the code FREEAPP26 in the application portal during the specified week.
- What are the typical application fees at UTC?
- The undergraduate application fee is usually $30, and the graduate school fee is $35.
- What is Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month?
- It is a statewide initiative in September where colleges and universities across Tennessee waive application fees to encourage students to apply.
- How does this initiative help students?
- It reduces financial barriers and encourages students to apply to multiple colleges, expanding their educational options.
Key Features of Free Application Week
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Duration | September 15 – 20 |
| Undergraduate Application Fee | $30 (waived) |
| Graduate Application Fee | $35 (waived) |
| Application Code | FREEAPP26 |
| Part of Statewide Initiative | Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month |
| Aim | Reduce financial barriers and increase college enrollment |
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Free Application Week at UTC
- WSMV: Applications Are Free This Week at UTC
- Times Free Press: UTC Enrollment Surpasses 12,000
- Wikipedia: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
- Google Search: Tennessee College Application and Exploration Month
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