BASE-TN – How Does It Work?

BASE –TN, funded by the Tennessee Department of Education’s Division of Special Education, works with The University of Tennessee at Martin to offer TUITION ASSISTANCE to qualified individuals. In return, after graduation, you’ll teach special-needs students in a Tennessee public school at full salary for two years for each academic year of financial support. It’s a rare opportunity to help yourself and your community, too.

Do I Qualify?

Because it is funded by the state, you must have specific qualifications:

1. Must be a citizen of the United States with priority given to residents of Tennessee.
2. Must be an undergraduate, post-baccalaureate or graduate student seeking licensure in the area of special education.
3. Minimum undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75.
4. Must be enrolled in a minimum of six hours.
5. Must submit a notarized student service agreement along with the application indicating intent to teach in an approved public school.
6. Must not have any form of financial aid that conflicts with the service obligation.
7. Must agree to inform the Project Director in writing whenever any significant change in status occurs and provide documentation to support such change.
8. Must provide a letter of intent and four letters of recommendation.
9. Must submit original transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.