Tennessee Governor's Schools 2026

     The Tennessee Governor's Schools provide eleven challenging and high-intensity summer programs for rising 11th and 12th grade students (Current 10th and 11th).  Each school offers a unique learning environment for students interested in the programs listed below.  Qualifications vary by program, but qualified applicants are generally those in the top decile of their class (approx. 3.5 GPA or higher) who have an interest in the selected program.

     This is a fun and rewarding experience for qualified students.  Not only will it look good on college and scholarship applications, but it will also give you a taste of what college will be like.  Additionally, it will qualify you as a graduate with distinction, and may give you the opportunity to earn college credits.  Participating students will live in on-campus housing and eat in the dining halls.  Concerts, plays, movies, and special events, scheduled after hours and on the weekends, add to the fun. Students are also free to take part in on-campus activities. There are grants available to cover the tuition for most Governor's schools, but there may be an activity fee for each governor's school.

     Students interested in participating in a Governor's School can find links to applications and more information below. Applications cannot be submitted without a staff nomination. Interested students should fill out This Form to let counselors know that you are interested, so that they can help you with printing, gathering, and submitting all application materials by the deadline.  Make sure to give teachers time to write recommendations and give me time (approximately two weeks) to compile other materials before the deadline.  If you have other questions, please contact samuel.jacks@knoxschools.org