TCAT FAQs

Do I need a high school diploma or GED to enroll in one of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) programs?

The majority of the programs do not require a high school or a GED diploma; however, the programs in the medical field (Practical Nursing, Surgical Technology and Medical Assistant) Cosmetology, Massage Therapy and the two Volkswagen Mechatronics programs require a diploma or GED to enroll. Beginning in the fall of 2012, students must have a high school diploma or GED to receive federal financial aid (PELL and/or Loans). For program testing and entrance requirements please refer to "entrance requirements".

How do I begin the admissions process?

Prospective students must submit an admissions application.  Applications may be submitted online at www.chattanoogastate.edu or in person at the TCAT Student Services Department (room 20).

Do I have to take an admissions test to enroll in one of the TCAT programs?

Yes, the COMPASS Diagnostic test is used for all programs except LPN, Medical Assistant, Surgical Technology and Massage Therapy, which require the college COMPASS Test and the Volkswagen Mechatronics Programs that require the ACT or College Compass Test. In addition to the test, many programs require an interview before enrollment.

How long does it take to complete a program in the TCAT?

Most programs are designed to be completed in one calendar year (3 semesters and 1,290 hours). The exceptions are the Volkswagen Mechatronics Programs (4,050 - 9 semesters), Commercial Truck Driving (216 hours - 7.5 weeks), Cosmetology (1,500 hours - 4 semesters), Aesthetics and Manicurist (780 hours - 2 semesters) and the one semester Cosmetology Instructors class (300 hours).

Can I enroll in a TCAT program at anytime during the semester?

No, program enrollment is limited to the first two weeks of each semester (fall, spring and summer). The medical programs, Massage Therapy and the Volkswagen Mechatronics Programs, however, are on a different admissions cycle and you should check with each programs for admit dates.

How often and when are students admitted to the Practical Nursing, Surgical Tech, Medical Assistant Program, Massage Therapy and the Mechatronics Programs?

The Practical Nursing program admits approximately 55 students in August and January; Surgical Tech admits 24 students in August; and the Medical Assistant program admits 22 students in August for the day program and 20 students in January for the evening program. The part-time, evening LPN class enrolls 24 students every 18 months. In addition to the college admissions application, each program (except Massage Therapy) has a special admissions application packet that must be submitted.

What is the Compass test and what score do I need to make in order to enroll in one of the Medical Programs at the TCAT?

The Practical Nursing program admits approximately 55 students in August and January; Surgical Tech admits 24 students in August; and the Medical Assistant program admits 22 students in August for the day program and 20 students in January for the evening program. The part-time, evening LPN class enrolls 24 students every 18 months and the Volkswagen Automation Mechatronics Program admits 12 students in May and August, while the Car Mechatronics Program admits 12 students in August. In addition to the college admissions application, each program (except Massage Therapy) has a special admissions application packet that must be submitted.

How many days a week do the TCAT classes meet and how long do they meet?

Full-Time: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM (30 Hours a week)

Full-Time Evening: Monday - Friday, 4:00 PM - 10:45 PM

Are part time programs available?

Currently, the only part-time program is the evening, Practical Nursing class.

What happens if the program that I want is full?

Unfortunately, all programs have an enrollment limit and students are enrolled on a first come basis. If a class is full and you have met the admissions requirements, you will be given a permit to enroll should a seat become available.

Are TCAT students eligible to receive financial aid?

Yes, TCAT students are eligible to apply for the Wilder-Naifeh Technical Skills Grant (WNTSG), which is part of the Tennessee Lottery Scholarship Program, and the Federal Pell Grant and Student Loans. The FAFSA application is used to determine eligibility for each program.

What is the Wilder Naifeh Scholarship, what are the eligibility requirements and how can I apply?

The WNTSG is part of the Tennessee Lottery Scholarship Program and is designated for Tennessee residents who enroll in one of the Tennessee College of Applied Technologys across the state. The qualifications are minimal. Students do not have to have a high school or GED diploma, there is no grade point average, no test scores and no age limit. Students are required to submit a FAFSA application to apply for the grant. Additional information is available through the Office of Financial Aid.

How much is the tuition and fees each semester, and how much are books, tools, supplies, etc?

Refer to Tuition and Fees web page.