I
n Tennessee, a pioneering program is giving high school seniors a chance to kickstart their careers in real estate without breaking the bank. Launched last year by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission, this initiative allows students to earn a real estate license while still in school – completely free of charge.

    The program's goal, according to Kevin Walters, spokesperson for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance, is to provide students with hands-on career opportunities that align with their high school education. "It's an opportunity for them to begin building a sales career, earning money, and gaining real-world experience while completing their degree," he explained.

    While tuition and course fees are fully covered, Walters emphasized that the program maintains the state's rigorous training criteria for becoming a licensed real estate agent. Students must still complete the 60-hour Tennessee Affiliate Broker pre-licensing course and the 30-hour Tennessee New Affiliate course through partners like Kaplan.

    Once accepted, students have 100 days after graduation to finish their coursework and pass both the state and national real estate exams. The program currently has a cap of 150 participants statewide, with spots filled by applicants on the waiting list if any drop out.

    The initiative is open to all high school seniors in Tennessee, but places special focus on students from economically distressed counties – part of Governor Bill Lee's broader effort to revitalize struggling communities. "Those are the counties that Governor Lee has prioritized as governor to boost their economies," Walters noted.

    By empowering young Tennesseans with a head start in real estate, the program aims to prepare them for successful careers and contribute to the state's economic growth. For more information on this innovative opportunity, visit the Tennessee High School Senior Real Estate Licensing Program website.