New Jersey students are fortunate to have access to one of the most generous and varied state financial aid systems in the country.
From need-based grants to merit-based programs, the state offers multiple pathways to make college more affordable. But eligibility can be confusing, especially when layered with federal and institutional aid.
At College Benefits Research Group (CBRG), we help New Jersey families understand exactly what they qualify for—and how to apply strategically to maximize their aid.
This guide covers the key programs, income and residency requirements, and practical filing tips every NJ family should know.
Understanding Financial Aid in New Jersey
Financial aid in New Jersey comes from three primary sources:
- Federal Aid, such as the Pell Grant and federal loans
- State Aid, including grants and scholarships administered by the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA)
- Institutional Aid, which is awarded by the colleges themselves
New Jersey residents can qualify for all three—provided they meet the requirements and file the necessary applications on time.
State aid is especially valuable because it includes generous programs like the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) and Garden State Guarantee, both of which significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for middle- and lower-income families.
CBRG provides customized college funding strategies that include FAFSA support, CSS Profile optimization, and expert advice on qualifying for NJ-based programs.
New Jersey FAFSA and HESAA Requirements
Most financial aid in New Jersey begins with one essential step: filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This form is required to qualify for federal and most state aid programs, including TAG and EOF.
Important NJ-specific FAFSA requirements include:
- April 15 FAFSA deadline for NJ TAG eligibility for returning students
- First-time college students should submit by September 15
- Use NJ school codes and correct residency information
Undocumented and DACA students may not be eligible for federal aid, but they can still apply for state aid using the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.
This is specifically designed to allow non-citizen students to access NJ’s generous financial aid programs.
Some New Jersey colleges also require the CSS Profile, a more detailed financial aid application used by private institutions.
CBRG helps families navigate both forms and avoid conflicting information that could delay or reduce aid.
Key State Aid Programs in NJ: Who Qualifies?
New Jersey offers several major state-funded financial aid programs, each with its own eligibility criteria.
Tuition Aid Grant (TAG)
- Awarded to students attending approved NJ colleges full-time
- Based on financial need as determined by FAFSA
- Must be a NJ resident and meet income thresholds
- Can be used at both public and private NJ institutions
More info: NJ Tuition Aid Grant via Scholarships.com
NJ STARS and NJ STARS II
- NJ STARS is for top 15% of high school graduates attending NJ community colleges
- STARS II supports STARS students transferring to 4-year NJ colleges
- Covers full tuition (STARS) or up to $2,500/year (STARS II)
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
- Designed for low-income, first-generation college students
- Available at over 40 NJ colleges
- Covers academic support, counseling, and financial assistance
Governor’s Urban Scholarship
- Available to students in specific NJ cities based on high school GPA
- Must be enrolled full-time and meet income criteria
Garden State Guarantee (GSG)
- Covers tuition/fees in years 3 and 4 for families earning under $65,000/year
- Applies at public four-year NJ colleges
- Requires full-time enrollment and Satisfactory Academic Progress
CBRG evaluates eligibility for each of these programs based on family income, college list, and academic profile to develop a tailored funding strategy.
Income and Residency Requirements for NJ State Aid
To be eligible for New Jersey state financial aid, students must:
- Be legal residents of NJ for at least 12 months prior to enrollment
- Be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens (unless using the NJ Alternative Application)
- Demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA or state application
Income Guidelines
While income thresholds vary by program, TAG and EOF are primarily for students from households with Adjusted Gross Incomes (AGI) below $70,000–$80,000. For GSG, the income ceiling is $65,000.
Dependents must report parent income, while independent students report their own. Certain programs, like NJ STARS, do not have income requirements but require academic achievement.
CBRG reviews each family’s financial position and helps identify what level of aid is possible under current NJ policies.
Financial Aid for Private and Independent Colleges in NJ
Many New Jersey students attend private colleges such as Seton Hall, Princeton, or Rider University. These schools often offer:
- Institutional grants and scholarships based on need or merit
- Participation in state aid programs like TAG and EOF
- Additional support for CSS Profile filers
Even at private colleges, NJ residents may qualify for multiple layers of aid. The key is submitting both the FAFSA and CSS Profile (if required) accurately and on time.
CBRG has helped families reduce the cost of attending private colleges by thousands through proper financial positioning and early aid application.
CBRG’s Role in Helping NJ Families Secure Financial Aid
Navigating NJ’s financial aid landscape requires more than just submitting a FAFSA. Deadlines, documentation, and eligibility rules vary by program and institution.
CBRG provides:
- Expert FAFSA and CSS Profile filing for NJ families
- Eligibility screening for state grants and scholarships
- Appeal and verification support
- Aid comparison across NJ’s public and private colleges
One CBRG client family from Bergen County increased their financial aid package by nearly $12,000 after we identified their eligibility for TAG and EOF and corrected an error in their FAFSA income reporting.
We work one-on-one with families across NJ to make sure they don’t leave money on the table.
FAQs: Financial Aid in New Jersey
Yes. You must file FAFSA (or the NJ Alternative Application) each year by the state’s deadline to remain eligible.
TAG income limits vary by college and family size but are generally capped around $70,000–$80,000 for dependent students.
Yes. Students can apply through the NJ Alternative Application for state-funded aid.
NJ community colleges accept NJ STARS. Four-year public colleges accept STARS II participants.
Yes. Many students receive both federal and state aid, which combine to reduce overall costs.
You must be a resident for at least 12 consecutive months before the start of the academic year to be eligible for most state aid.
Some short-term programs may qualify for Workforce Development funds, but most state aid is for degree-seeking students enrolled full-time.
Why Understanding Financial Aid Eligibility in NJ Matters
New Jersey offers tremendous opportunities for families who understand the process. With dozens of state-supported aid programs and additional layers of federal and institutional funding, knowing how and when to apply can make the difference between a manageable college bill and overwhelming debt.
CBRG helps make sense of the fine print—and maximize every dollar available—so New Jersey families can confidently pursue college options that fit both academically and financially.
Whether you’re just beginning your planning or preparing to file FAFSA and CSS Profile, the right guidance can ensure your student receives the full support they’re entitled to.