UNITED STATES · GREENEVILLE
Tusculum College
private · Founded 1794 · Languages: en
In short
Tusculum University, Tennessee's oldest higher education institution founded in 1794, offers liberal arts programs with an emphasis on civic virtue and career readiness. It provides strong financial aid availability and a welcoming community in the historically rich and affordable city of Greeneville.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1794
- Students
- 1,664
- International students
- 80
- Acceptance rate
- 74%
- Tuition (intl)
- €22–27k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Greeneville, United States
Tusculum University is the oldest institution of higher education in Tennessee, founded in 1794 as a private Christian liberal arts university in Greeneville, TN. It offers associate, undergraduate, and graduate programs emphasizing civic virtue, ethical leadership, and career readiness. The university is known for its favorable student-to-faculty ratio, strong financial aid availability—over 90% of traditional undergraduates receive aid—and a welcoming community that values both academic achievement and service.
Why study here
- Tennessee's oldest university with a 200+ year tradition of excellence and a strong civic engagement mission.
- Over 90% of traditional undergraduates receive financial aid, making it highly accessible.
- Small class sizes and excellent faculty-to-student ratio ensure personalized academic support.
- Unique Pioneer Ready curriculum designed around collaboration, critical thinking, and professional readiness.
- Christian values-based environment open to students of all faiths, with active campus ministries and service programs.
Student life
Tusculum University's residential campus in Greeneville, Tennessee offers a close-knit community atmosphere. Students engage in athletics (NCAA Division II), student clubs, campus ministries, and a rich tradition of community service—including a Freshman Day of Service. The surrounding Appalachian region offers hiking, outdoor recreation, and a quieter pace of life compared to urban campuses. Greeneville is a small historic city with affordable living costs.
Fees
InternationalInternational student tuition is approximately USD 24,000–28,000 per year (EUR 22,000–26,000). Many international students may qualify for institutional scholarships reducing net cost.
HomeDomestic tuition is approximately USD 24,000–28,000 per year before financial aid. Over 90% of traditional undergraduates receive some form of aid.
LivingEstimated annual living costs in Greeneville, TN: approximately USD 10,000–13,000 including housing, food, and personal expenses—one of the most affordable regions in the US.
International students must submit a Certification of Finances. Health insurance waivers are available. Net Price Calculator is available on the Tusculum website to estimate true costs.
Admissions
High School Diploma or EquivalentRequired; official transcripts must be submitted
Standardized TestsSAT/ACT recommended but not mandatory for all programs
Certification of FinancesRequired for international student visa (I-20) processing
ApplicationOnline application via Tusculum website; no application fee for many applicants
TOEFL iBTMinimum 61
IELTS AcademicMinimum 5.5
Duolingo English TestMinimum 90
University scholarships
Pioneer ScholarshipMerit-based award; amount varies based on high school GPA
Presidential ScholarshipUp to full tuition for students with exceptional academic records
Church-Related ScholarshipPartial award for students affiliated with Presbyterian Church partners
Accreditation
Tusculum University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring its degrees are recognized across the United States and internationally.
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionTusculum College · United States
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-5 Teacher Licensure)
Tusculum University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a K-5 teaching licensure. This program is designed to prepare educators who are committed to excellence and confident in their abilities to lead in their communities. The curriculum focuses on the civic and intellectual development of students, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and character vital for educating future generations. Graduates will be prepared to teach in community schools, with the program emphasizing practical experience through extensive clinical placements and student teaching opportunities.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Tusculum College · United States
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) at Tusculum University is designed to develop ethically, globally, and civically engaged business leaders. The program provides a comprehensive foundation across essential business areas, with a specific focus on the global marketplace, ethical decision-making, workplace diversity, teamwork, and personal responsibility. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths, including entrepreneurship, management, consulting, and further education, with those achieving a 3.0 GPA automatically qualifying for admission into the university's MBA program.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Tusculum College · United States
Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management
The Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management program equips you with essential leadership skills to enhance company culture and contribute to the bottom line. Through a blend of online and on-site courses, you will connect with a diverse network of peers and learn from experienced faculty. This program is designed for individuals seeking to make a positive impact in the growing field of human resources, covering topics from core HR functions to the complexities of employee relations and organizational behavior.
Bachelor's
Level
€0k
Tuition
—
Duration
Tusculum College · United States
Business Programs at Tusculum University
Tusculum University's College of Business offers undergraduate programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in a dynamic global business environment. Emphasizing an active, experiential, and career-ready education, the college aims to be the business educator of choice in the Southeastern United States. Our curriculum is guided by faculty with both academic and practical industry experience, focusing on workforce applications and employer needs. We are proud of our "Civic Arts" focus, an approach that elevates the liberal arts and cultivates individuals of integrity and ideals.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Tusculum College · United States
Computer Science – Information Technology Concentration
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Information Technology concentration at Tusculum University is designed for students interested in supporting various organizations with technology, without the intensive math requirements of a traditional computer science program. This program equips students with skills in systems support for businesses, government, and nonprofits. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in areas like business automation, IT support, e-commerce, and cybersecurity, or for further graduate studies. The curriculum was developed with input from IT professionals in East Tennessee, ensuring its relevance to current industry needs.
Bachelor's
Level
€28k
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Tusculum College · United States
Master of Arts in Education - Curriculum & Instruction Concentration
The Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) program at Tusculum University is designed for licensed K-12 teachers seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills. This program aims to equip educators to better serve all students, including those with special needs. The Curriculum & Instruction concentration focuses on how physical, emotional, and cognitive growth influence the planning and delivery of developmentally appropriate educational practices. This concentration is ideal for working teachers who wish to advance their careers and pursue leadership opportunities. The program emphasizes practical application and is offered entirely online, providing flexibility for busy professionals. Tusculum University is committed to making graduate education accessible and affordable, with many graduate students receiving financial aid and competitive tuition rates.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students at Tusculum University?
+
International student tuition at Tusculum University is approximately USD 24,000–28,000 per year. Many international students may also qualify for institutional scholarships that can reduce the net cost.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Greeneville, TN?
+
Estimated annual living costs in Greeneville, TN, including housing, food, and personal expenses, range from approximately USD 10,000–13,000. This region is known for having some of the most affordable living costs in the US.
Does Tusculum University offer financial aid or scholarships to international students?
+
Yes, Tusculum University offers financial aid and scholarships. Over 90% of traditional undergraduates receive aid, and international students may qualify for institutional scholarships, including merit-based Pioneer and Presidential Scholarships.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants typically need a TOEFL iBT score of at least 61, an IELTS Academic score of at least 5.5, or a Duolingo English Test score of at least 90.
What academic qualifications are required for international students?
+
International students are required to have a High School Diploma or equivalent, with official transcripts needing to be submitted. While SAT/ACT scores are recommended for some programs, they are not mandatory for all.
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