
1276 Gilbreath Drive Box 70300, Johnson City, TN 37614-1700, USA


East Tennessee State University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, which authorizes it to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, education specialist, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation is an important consideration for prospective students, as it ensures that the institution meets established standards of quality in higher education.
The university's individual programs also maintain specialized accreditations. For example, its College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, demonstrating compliance with rigorous criteria specific to nursing education. Meanwhile, the Quillen College of Medicine is accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, which underscores the quality of its medical training.
Additionally, the College of Pharmacy has accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education, allowing the school to grant Doctor of Pharmacy degrees. The university's other professional programs, such as those in social work and business, hold accreditation from their respective specialized agencies, reinforcing their commitment to professional standards and ensuring graduates are well-prepared for their fields.
East Tennessee State University requires applicants to have completed General Educational Development (GED) equivalency or a secondary school diploma. Prospective students must submit their secondary school transcripts, and maintaining a minimum GPA is mandatory, though the university only recommends providing class rank. Additionally, a prior college program record is necessary for admission consideration.
Standardized test scores are not strongly emphasized; however, an above-average ACT score is typical among enrolled students, with a mean ACT score of 23. The university does not require SAT scores, and performance on these tests is not a significant factor in admissions decisions. TOEFL scores are required for applicants whose primary language is not English to demonstrate proficiency.
Recommendations and evidence of competencies are advised but not strictly required, allowing flexibility for applicants whose strengths may lie outside formal endorsements. Other admission tests are suggested but not mandatory, reflecting a holistic review process rather than a rigid testing requirement.
East Tennessee State University does not operate under an open admission policy, and dual credit from high school is not accepted. However, the institution grants academic credit for previous college coursework and Advanced Placement exams, enabling students to build upon prior learning and accelerate their educational progress.
The application fee for prospective students applying to East Tennessee State University is set at $50. This fee is required to process each application submitted to the university.
The university offers fee waivers to certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria, which can help reduce the cost barrier associated with the application process. Eligible students should inquire directly with the admissions office to determine their qualification for any available waivers and the necessary documentation required.
East Tennessee State University hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with opportunities to engage in military training and leadership development alongside their academic studies. While specific branches or program details are not provided, the presence of an ROTC unit indicates availability of structured military programs for those interested in pursuing a commission as an officer during or after their university education.
East Tennessee State University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year to begin coursework. The university is open to accepting transfer credits from various standardized exams, including the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) in both subject-specific and general categories, as well as credits from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program.
The institution has a moderately difficult entrance process for transfer applicants, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity. It also recognizes and accepts transfer credits, easing the transition for students who have completed coursework elsewhere, thus facilitating credit accumulation towards degree completion.
East Tennessee State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to complement students' academic goals and enhance their global awareness. These programs range from faculty-led short-term trips to semester-long exchanges and internships, providing flexible options for students with different time commitments and academic interests.
The university emphasizes experiential learning through immersive cultural experiences, allowing students to engage deeply with local communities while earning academic credit. Programs are available in diverse regions, including Europe, Asia, and Latin America, reflecting the institution's commitment to global education.
Many study abroad options are integrated with specific academic departments, enabling students to pursue courses related to their major or minor while abroad. Additionally, some programs incorporate service-learning components, which combine study with volunteer work to foster a greater understanding of global challenges.
East Tennessee State University also supports students in securing internships abroad, offering practical work experience in an international setting. These internships help students develop professional skills and global perspectives that are valuable in an increasingly interconnected workforce.
To facilitate participation, the university provides pre-departure orientation sessions and on-site support to ensure students have a safe and enriching experience. Scholarships and financial aid resources are also available to assist with the costs associated with studying abroad.
Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
80%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
7%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer