See if you qualify.
In New Jersey, the cost of tuition should not stop you from earning your degree. That is one reason why New Jersey offers some of the most generous need-based financial aid per student in the nation. There are a number of State financial aid programs available to students who qualify, including Tuition Aid Grants (TAG), the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) and the Garden State Guarantee (GSG). Based on your income, your degree may be tuition-free!
To be considered for New Jersey financial aid, complete the or the (if you are an NJ Dreamer). Additional financial information, including state application deadlines, are available through the .
Keep reading for more information on CCOG and GSG.
The New Jersey College Promise Program is the State's commitment to creating an affordable pathway to a college degree. It consists of two life-changing programs used in tandem: the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) and the Garden State Guarantee (GSG) that promise transparent, predictable pricing for up to four years of college here in New Jersey. Based on your income, your degree may be tuition-free!
The Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) represents New Jersey's commitment to tuition-free community college. Based on income, eligible New Jersey students, including NJ Dreamers, can pursue their first associate's degree tuition-free at their local community college.
To be eligible for the Community College Opportunity Grant, students must:
- Be a New Jersey resident with an AGI between $0 - $65,000
- Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application by applicable state deadlines
- Enroll in at least six (6) credits per semester at one of New Jersey's community colleges
- Have not yet earned a college degree
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress
The Garden State Guarantee (GSG) enables eligible New Jersey residents to attend any in-state, public, four-year institution tuition-free during their third and fourth years of study toward their first bachelor's degree. GSG covers the cost of tuition that is not already covered by federal and state financial aid or other scholarships.
To be eligible for the Garden State Guarantee, students must:
- Be a New Jersey resident with an AGI between $0 - $65,000
- Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application by applicable state deadlines
- Enroll full-time (at least 12 credits per semester) at a New Jersey public four-year college or university
- Have not yet earned a Bachelor鈥檚 degree
- Make satisfactory academic progress