It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for! Whether you’ve dreamed of becoming a Vol since day one or you’re just discovering everything that makes the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (aka Rocky Top) so special—our Fall 2027 application is now OPEN!
Ready to apply but not sure where to start? We’ve broken down the process below into easy-to-follow steps so you know exactly what to do and when. There are two ways to start your college application journey, and we’re here to help you figure out which option suits you best.
1. Choose how to apply and submit your application.
First, choose between UT’s Go Vols application or the Common Application to submit your app—we accept either!
Go Vols Application
If you’re interested in applying to ONLY UT, submit the Go Vols application. To get started, create an account as a “First Time User” or log in as a “Returning User” if you already have an account from a previous program. Then, fill out the application and submit.
Common App
The Common App is great for students applying for admission at multiple universities. It’s a one-stop shop for college applications, has a database containing information from thousands of schools, and saves you time by standardizing questions from each institution that piques your interest.
No matter which application you choose, you’ll also need to submit the required essay and pay the application fee (or request a fee waiver if you believe you qualify) before your application is complete.
After you complete the application and submit, you’re done with the first step.
2. Create Your Go Vols Portal
No matter if you submitted your application through Common App or the Go Vols app, you will need to create a Go Vols Portal account to complete your next steps. Your Go Vols Portal provides information about important next steps—like completing your Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record (STARS)—a checklist of missing items, and a place to upload supporting documents. Applications to student programs, including University Honors, also appear in your portal if you are eligible. You can even register for our events & campus tours in your portal!
- If you applied through the Common App, you’ll need to create a Go Vols account to access your portal. We’ve provided more details and information here to help you out! If you submit your Common App in early to mid-August, it may take 2-3 weeks for us to receive your application and send you next steps. If you apply after mid-August, it will take 3 business days for us to receive your application. Regardless of when you apply, always keep an eye on your email inbox for steps on how to create your portal, as well as important next steps just for Common App applicants.
- If you applied through the Go Vols application, good news—you already have a Go Vols Portal account!
3. Provide required materials.
After creating a Go Vols account, you can provide required supporting materials—like self-reporting your grades and standardized test scores via your STARS and providing an unofficial high school transcript —so we can review you for admission!
Remember, we superscore, so it’s important you self-report all scores from all tests you’ve taken. You can self-report ACT/SAT scores and unofficial transcripts on your STARS. Please provide additional materials including recommendation letters, or major-specific requirements via the Go Vols Portal.
Completed your application? Sweet! What’s next?
The application review process at UT is competitive, but some applications are viewed holistically. We keep the following items in mind when reviewing your application:
- Rigor of your high school curriculum
- Difficulty of senior-level coursework
- Standardized test scores
- AP, CLEP, IB, Cambridge, and Statewide Dual Credit
We also review these optional items when reviewing your application:
- Extracurricular or leadership activities
- Job experience
- Awards
- Special talents or skills
- Letter(s) of recommendation
For more information, visit our application checklist.
How do I check my application status?
After completing your application, you can check your status by logging into your Go Vols Portal. Check your portal frequently to stay updated on any important communications from UT and to submit any necessary materials to complete your application.
When will I get a decision?
UT typically releases decisions in December and March, and on a rolling basis afterwards.
Early Action Releases: Students must submit applications by November 1 and provide required materials — such as self-reported grades, standardized test scores, and an unofficial transcript — by November 15 to be considered an early-action applicant. Decisions for Tennessee residents will be released in early December, and non-residents in mid-December.
Regular Decision Release: Early March
Students must submit applications by January 5 and provide required materials by January 20 to be considered a regular decision applicant.
After early March, UT will release admissions decisions on a rolling basis.
Need help? Let’s connect!
We’re excited to support you on your journey! Your admissions counselor is ready to answer any questions you may have about the application process.