Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re exploring your options or getting ready to apply, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about online programs, admissions, tuition, technology, and student support.
General
Vols Online bachelor’s programs were ranked #10 nationally in 2026 by US News & World Report. Several individual programs also received high marks.
The University of Tennessee has more than 35 years of experience in distance education, helping students balance work, family, and life while earning a respected degree. What began with correspondence courses has evolved into flexible, high-quality online learning designed for today’s students.
Many Vols Online programs are taught by the same expert faculty who teach on campus, bringing the same academic rigor and subject-matter expertise to the online classroom. Faculty involvement may vary by program, but all students learn from qualified instructors committed to student success.
Yes. Vols Online programs meet the same rigorous academic standards as on-campus programs and are backed by the University of Tennessee’s institutional accreditation.
SACSCOC Accreditation
Your timeline depends on your program, transfer credits, prior learning credit, and how many courses you take each term. Whether you want to move quickly or balance school with other responsibilities, Vols Online offers pathways designed to fit different schedules and goals.
Vols Online programs are designed with flexibility in mind. Depending on your program, courses may be offered in asynchronous formats (learn on your schedule), synchronous formats (live online classes), and mixed (both asynchronous and synchronous elements). Some programs may also include hybrid (online and in-person instruction) components. An enrollment coach can help you understand what to expect for your program.
Yes! Vols Online students are invited and encouraged to participate in commencement and celebrate their achievements alongside fellow University of Tennessee graduates.
Absolutely. As a University of Tennessee graduate, you’ll join a powerful network of Vol alumni with opportunities to stay connected through events, resources, and professional networking.
alumni.utk.edu
You’re not alone—many Vols Online students are returning to school after time away. Our team is here to help you explore your options, understand what to expect, and determine whether a program fits your goals and lifestyle. Speaking with an enrollment coach is a great first step to getting your questions answered and building confidence in your decision.
Students should have access to a reliable computer and internet connection. Most coursework is delivered through platforms such as Canvas and Zoom. A webcam, microphone, and updated browser may also be helpful depending on your program or course requirements. Some programs may have additional technology or software needs, which will be shared before classes begin.
Tuition
Vols Online students pay some university fees, but not all of the same fees as on-campus students. Costs typically include tuition and standard fees such as online support and library access, while some on campus-based fees may not apply. Certain programs may also include additional college- or department-specific fees. Using the tuition calculator can help you better understand your program’s cost breakdown and plan ahead.
The Vols Online tuition calculator can help you estimate the cost of your program, including tuition and standard fees. You can also explore official tuition and fee information to better understand costs associated with your program and enrollment.
Yes. Tuition rates can vary depending on your program, degree level, and academic college. We recommend reviewing your specific program details or speaking with an enrollment coach for the most accurate cost information.
In addition to tuition, some programs include college- or department-specific fees. Online students may also see an $100 online support fee and $5 library fee. Using our tuition calculator can help you understand your program’s cost breakdown and plan ahead with confidence.
Yes. Many Vols Online students choose a course load that fits their schedule and financial goals. Taking fewer classes per term may help make costs more manageable while allowing you to balance work, family, and other responsibilities.
Yes. Vols Online students may be eligible for a variety of financial aid and scholarship opportunities, including federal aid through the FAFSA, merit-based scholarships, departmental awards, private or organizational scholarships, and state programs such as the Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA), when eligible.
Yes. Graduate students may still qualify for financial assistance, including federal student loans. Completing the FAFSA is an important first step to determine eligibility and explore available funding options.
Application fees vary by degree level. Undergraduate applications have a $75 fee, while graduate applications have a $60 fee. Some programs may offer fee waivers during special promotions or events.
Yes. Many employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs to help employees advance their education. Check with your HR department to see what benefits may be available and whether your employer partners with the University of Tennessee.
One of the best ways to explore fit is by speaking with a Vols Online enrollment coach. They can answer your questions, walk through program options, discuss costs and timelines, and help you determine whether a program aligns with your goals.
Admissions
Undergraduate: https://volsonline.utk.edu/admissions-aid-applying-to-utk/
Graduate: https://volsonline.utk.edu/admissions-aid-applying-to-utk/
Haslam Graduate: https://volsonline.utk.edu/admissions-aid-applying-to-utk/
No. Your diploma and transcript will reflect a degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It will not indicate that your program was completed online. You’ll earn the same respected degree as students who complete their program on campus, meeting the same academic standards and learning outcomes.
Students typically receive a decision within 2–4 weeks after submitting a complete application and all required materials.
Admission requirements vary by program.
Vols Online offers a variety of course formats to fit different learning styles and program needs. Depending on your program, classes may be asynchronous, allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule, synchronous, with live online class sessions, or a combination of both.
Undergraduate: N/A
Graduate: Depends on program
Haslam Graduate: No
Undergraduate:
[email protected]
Mail to:
The University of Tennessee
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
320 Student Services Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-0230
Graduate:
[email protected]
Mail to:
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Office of Graduate Admissions
201 Student Services Building
Knoxville, TN 37996-0221
Haslam Graduate:
[email protected]
Mail to:
ATTN: Haslam Admissons
504 Haslam Business Building
1000 Volunteer Blvd
Knoxville, TN 37996
Yes! Vols Online students are invited and encouraged to participate in commencement and celebrate their achievements alongside fellow University of Tennessee graduates.
Most Vols Online programs can be completed without traveling to campus. However, depending on your program, you may be required to attend an on-campus orientation, residency, immersion, or other in-person experience. Be sure to review your program’s requirements for any campus visit expectations before enrolling.
In many cases, yes. Previous college coursework may be eligible for transfer, helping you build on the progress you’ve already made. How those credits apply depends on your degree level and intended program. After admission, you’ll receive an official transfer credit evaluation outlining which credits apply to your degree.
- Undergraduate: Transfer credits are evaluated based on how they apply to your intended program and degree requirements.
- Graduate: Transfer credits must apply to your intended program and are generally limited to coursework completed within the past six years.
In many cases, yes. Previous college coursework may be eligible for transfer, helping you build on the progress you’ve already made. How those credits apply depends on your degree level and intended program. After admission, you’ll receive an official transfer credit evaluation outlining which credits apply to your degree.
- Undergraduate: Transfer credits are evaluated based on how they apply to your intended program and degree requirements.
- Graduate: Transfer credits must apply to your intended program and are generally limited to coursework completed within the past six years.
Student Experience
In most cases, Vols Online students complete their coursework fully online and are not able to mix online and on-campus classes within their program. Program formats are intentionally designed for flexibility and accessibility. If you are interested in exploring additional options, an enrollment coach can help clarify what is available for your specific program.
Vols Online students have access to a variety of academic support resources designed to help them succeed, including academic advising, writing support, library resources, career services, and student success support.
Undergraduate students also have access to Vols Study 24/7, a free online tutoring platform that offers live and on-demand support in more than 150 subjects directly through Canvas.
Yes. Vols Online students have access to 24/7 mental health and well-being support through TELUS Health Student Support, offering confidential resources whenever you need them.
TELUS Health Student Support Resources
Yes. Online students have access to career support through the Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration, including career coaching, resume support, job and internship resources, and professional development tools.
Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration
Yes. Online students have access to a variety of academic support resources designed to help them succeed. Undergraduate students can use Vols Study 24/7, a free online tutoring platform offering on-demand academic support. Students also have access to the Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center, which provides free, individualized writing support across disciplines. Additional academic coaching, tutoring, and student success resources may be available depending on your program and area of study.
Online students have access to UT Libraries resources, including digital databases, academic journals, e-books, research tools, and librarian support to help with coursework and research.
Yes. Student Disability Services works with students to coordinate accommodations and ensure equal access to university programs and services, including online learning environments.
Student Disability Services
Yes. The Veterans Success Center provides support for military-affiliated students, including educational benefits guidance, academic support, and transition resources.
Veterans Success Center
The total time commitment varies depending on the specific major, course demands, and the number of credit hours. We generally recommend that students plan to spend about 3 hours per academic credit each week for full semester courses, spread across several study sessions. For example: one 3-credit course would mean spending approximately 9 hours of study time throughout the week.
It depends on your program and course format. Some courses are asynchronous, allowing you to complete work on your own schedule, while others include live, scheduled class sessions. Many programs combine both approaches to provide flexibility while maintaining engagement.
Life happens, and many Vols Online students are balancing school with work, family, and other responsibilities. If challenges arise, we encourage you to communicate with your instructor and advisor as soon as possible. The university offers resources and support to help you navigate unexpected circumstances and stay on track whenever possible.
Yes. Your diploma and transcript will reflect a degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville — not an “online degree.” Vols Online students earn the same respected degree and complete the same academic standards as on-campus students.
Student Disability Services supports an accessible university experience for students with disabilities.
Vols Study 24/7 is a free online academic support platform available to all undergraduate students.
Judith Anderson Herbert Writing Center offers free, individualized support throughout the writing process for student writers across disciplines.
UT Libraries provides online students with access to extensive digital and physical collections, including articles, databases, e-books, streaming videos, research guides, and tutorials.
The Center for Career Development and Academic Exploration supports online students with resumes, cover letters, interviewing, major and career exploration, experience-building, and job searching.
Veteran’s Success Center supports student veterans and military-connected students in the areas of academics, leadership, connectedness, benefits, and tuition assistance.
UT RecSports offers memberships to online students.
For additional information, visit Student Resources
Advising and Coaching
Enrollment Coaches work with prospective students to select the right academic program and guide them through the application and admissions requirements. They help identify and remove barriers that might prevent a student from enrolling.
Success Coaches work with enrolled students from the time they confirm enrollment through graduation. They help students succeed academically and personally once they are in the program by connecting students with campus resources, academic support, and university services. They also assist students in overcoming challenges that could affect persistence and completion.
After you confirm your intent to enroll, you’ll be paired with a dedicated success coach who will guide you through your transition to the University of Tennessee and support you along your journey.
Yes! During the application process we can discuss your career goals to help you find the right fit.
International
Yes. International students are welcome to apply to many Vols Online programs. Program availability may vary based on location, academic requirements, and applicable regulations, so we encourage prospective students to review program details or speak with an enrollment coach.
No. Many Vols Online programs are available to students living around the world, allowing you to earn a University of Tennessee degree from wherever you are. Program availability may vary by location and program requirements.
Some programs may have location-based restrictions due to regulations, licensure requirements, or other considerations. Availability can vary by country or region, so we recommend speaking with an enrollment coach to confirm whether your preferred program is available where you live.
No. Because Vols Online programs are completed remotely, students studying outside the United States generally do not need an F-1 student visa to enroll.
International transfer credits may be considered as part of the admissions process. Students are required to complete a course-by-course credential evaluation, and transfer credit decisions are made after an official review of transcripts and prior coursework.
If your academic records are not in English, a translated version will be required as part of the credential evaluation process. Your enrollment coach can help you understand what documentation is needed.
There is no specific limit on international transfer credits for evaluation; however, undergraduate students may transfer in no more than 75% of the credits required for a degree. Final transfer decisions are based on course equivalency and academic review.
Military
Yes. Vols Online is designed with flexibility in mind, making it a strong fit for military-connected students balancing service, work, family, and education. Many programs offer flexible course formats and support services to help students continue their education while managing changing schedules and responsibilities.
Yes. The Veterans Success Center provides dedicated support for military-connected students, including assistance with educational benefits, enrollment, transition support, and connections to campus resources. Their team is here to help active duty service members, veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and military families navigate the student experience.
Eligible students may qualify for in-state tuition under the Veterans Choice Act. Eligibility requirements vary based on military affiliation and benefits.
Yes. Eligible students can use GI Bill® education benefits for Vols Online programs. Benefit eligibility and coverage can vary depending on your military status, program, and VA benefits. The Veterans Success Center can help guide you through the process.
Yes. Military training and prior learning may be evaluated for transfer credit, depending on your experience and program requirements. The university reviews military transcripts and training to determine applicable credit. Military Credit Information
Military obligations can change unexpectedly, and the university works with students to navigate those situations. If deployment impacts your coursework, we encourage you to contact your instructor, academic advisor, and the Veterans Success Center as early as possible to discuss available options, next steps, and how benefits may be affected.
To be considered for military transfer credit, students may be asked to submit documentation such as a DD214, Joint Services Transcript (JST), or transcripts from the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF)/Air University. Your admissions or veterans support team can help determine what is needed for your evaluation.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville does not currently participate in the Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts (MyCAA) program.
In many cases, yes. Eligible students may be able to combine military education benefits with federal financial aid by completing the FAFSA. Available aid depends on your individual eligibility, benefit type, and enrollment status.
Transitioning back into school can feel like a big shift, and you are not alone. The Veterans Success Center connects military-affiliated students with resources, guidance, and a supportive community to help ease the transition to academic life. Many military-connected students find that the discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills developed through service become strengths in the classroom.
Definitions
Fully online, no live sessions.
Complete coursework on your own schedule with established weekly deadlines, allowing flexibility while staying on track with the course timeline.
Fully online with scheduled live sessions.
Join live classes at scheduled times, giving you real-time interaction with instructors and classmates while building structure into your week.
Fully online, mix of asynchronous and synchronous.
Complete coursework fully online, with a blend of self-paced work and live class sessions, giving you flexibility while still building in real-time interaction.
Mix of online and in-person instruction.
Combine online coursework with select in-person sessions, giving you the flexibility of remote learning alongside the connection and hands-on experience of on-campus time.
A specialized area of study within a broader academic degree program or major that allows students to focus their coursework on a specific topic, discipline, or career area.
A structured academic route within a degree program that focuses on a specific area of study or sequence of courses.
A broader guided route that helps a student move toward an academic, career, or completion goal.
Still Have Questions?
Connect with one of our enrollment coaches to get more personalized information to your situation. You can also get instant answers anytime using our Smokey chat assistant.
