# Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts

Three-week summer arts intensive at MTSU in Murfreesboro for rising 11th and 12th grade Tennesseans in dance, film, music, theatre, and visual art. Selected by statewide auditions; tuition-free for 2026 with a $300 activity fee.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Middle Tennessee State University |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | $300 |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 11–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Murfreesboro, TN |
| Apply | https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/instruction/tdoe-governors-schools.html |

## About this program

# Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts

The Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts (GSFTA) is a three-week residential summer arts program held on the campus of Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro (June 6–28 in 2026). One of Tennessee's state-sponsored Governor's Schools, GSFTA trains talented rising 11th and 12th graders in six disciplines: dance, filmmaking, instrumental music, vocal music, theatre, and visual art. Tuition is free for 2026 through state support; students pay a $300 activity fee. Students who successfully complete the session receive three hours of college credit.

## What You'll Do

- Train intensively in your discipline with college faculty and guest artists for three weeks, including weekends
- Attend professional performances and campus events, such as a Nashville Symphony concert at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center
- Perform, screen, or exhibit work developed during the session
- Live on the MTSU campus with talented young artists from across Tennessee

## Who Should Apply

Tennessee residents currently in 10th or 11th grade at public, private, or home schools who are highly talented in the arts. Every student who applies by the deadline is granted an audition or portfolio review, held in January and February; dance and theatre audition in person at MTSU, while film, music, and visual art submit portfolios or videos. For 2026, applications were due December 5, 2025 (dance, theatre, visual arts) and January 16, 2026 (film, music).

## Outcomes

Graduates leave with three hours of college credit, pre-professional training in their art form, and the statewide distinction of a Tennessee Governor's School credential.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts cost?

Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts costs $300. Many paid programs offer need-based financial aid or fee waivers — check the official site before ruling it out.

### Who is eligible for Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts?

Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts is open to high school students in grades 11–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts online or in person?

Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts is an in-person program based in Murfreesboro, TN.

### How do I apply to Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts?

Apply directly through Middle Tennessee State University's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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