Tennessee Wesleyan University is excited to announce its participation in the Tennessee Higher Education Commission’s (THEC) Direct Admissions program. THEC Direct Admissions is a program dedicated to eliminating barriers that may prevent high school seniors from pursuing higher education by streamlining the college application process. Now in its pilot stage, the program automatically offers college admission into participating universities to qualifying high school seniors across the state of Tennessee.

          Rather than requiring students to complete a traditional application, the program uses academic data provided by school districts and the Tennessee Department of Education to evaluate eligibility. Qualifying students will automatically receive offers of admission to participating institutions without having to apply. This November, eligible seniors will receive a personalized list of the colleges and universities to which they have been directly admitted.

          To be eligible for the program, students must complete the Tennessee Promise application by November 3, 2025.

          Tennessee Wesleyan University is one of the 53 higher education institutions participating in the THEC Direct Admissions program. Of those 53 institutions, TWU is one of just 17 public and private four-year universities selected to take part in this pilot initiative. Through its involvement, TWU affirms its long-standing commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting students throughout every stage of their academic journey.

         “Direct Admissions helps students see themselves as college-bound before they even submit an application,” said Dr. Tyler Forrest, president of Tennessee Wesleyan. “We’re proud to be a part of a program that puts students first.”

      The Direct Admissions initiative is part of a broader statewide effort to improve college-going rates in Tennessee. By streamlining the pathway from high school to college, the program aims to empower students who may not have otherwise applied to postsecondary institutions due to financial or logistical barriers.

      Tennessee Wesleyan University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, small class sizes, and a supportive campus environment in the heart of East Tennessee. Through participation in Direct Admissions, TWU hopes to welcome even more students to the Bulldog family and help them thrive academically, socially, and personally.