New Jersey Scholarships & Grants for 2025 - 2026

Overview of New Jersey Scholarships & Grants

New Jersey offers a wide range of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs for both in-state and out-of-state students. This guide covers automatic merit scholarships from major universities, full-ride opportunities, statewide grants, and private-school awards. Whether you’re a high school senior, current college student, or parent planning ahead, you’ll find reliable information to help make higher education in New Jersey more affordable.

TAG (Tuition Aid Grant) and NJ STARS/NJ STARS II are major programs.

What Is the NJ BEST Scholarship?

The NJ BEST Scholarship rewards students who have invested in their education through the New Jersey 529 College Savings Plan. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 toward tuition and fees at a New Jersey college or university. To qualify, the NJ BEST account must have been open for at least four years prior to college enrollment, and the beneficiary must use the funds to attend an eligible New Jersey institution. Awards are based on the amount contributed to the savings plan and the length of time the account has been active, encouraging families to start saving early for higher education.

Who Qualifies for Free Tuition in NJ?

Many New Jersey residents may qualify for free community college tuition through the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG). This program covers tuition and approved fees after federal and state grants have been applied. To qualify, students must:

• Be New Jersey residents for at least one year.
• Have a household income of $0–$65,000 annually.
• Enroll at a New Jersey community college in an approved program of study.
• Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application (for eligible undocumented students).

The CCOG helps make higher education accessible to low- and middle-income families by eliminating tuition costs for many first-time college students and adult learners.

What Scholarships and Grants Are Available for College Students in New Jersey?

New Jersey offers several major scholarship and grant programs to support college students financially. The Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) is one of the most generous need-based grant programs in the nation, covering up to the full cost of tuition at eligible New Jersey institutions. The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) provides both financial assistance and academic support to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, the NJ BEST Scholarship rewards students who have saved through the state’s 529 college savings program. Together, these programs help thousands of New Jersey students reduce debt and stay enrolled through graduation.

What Scholarships Are Available for High School Seniors in New Jersey?

High school seniors in New Jersey can access several scholarship programs designed to recognize academic achievement and promote college affordability. The most notable is the New Jersey Stars Scholarship, which offers free tuition at New Jersey community colleges for students graduating in the top 15% of their high school class. Students who maintain strong academic performance in community college may also qualify for NJ Stars II, which provides additional funding to transfer to a four-year New Jersey college or university. Other programs, such as the Garden State Scholarship and local community foundation awards, offer financial support based on merit, need, or community involvement.

What Scholarships Are Available for College Students in New Jersey?

New Jersey college students can apply for both statewide and institution-based scholarships. Prestigious awards include the Bloustein Distinguished Scholars Program, which honors high academic achievement in high school, and the New Jersey State Golf Association Caddie Scholarship for students with strong character and academic merit. In addition, universities such as Rutgers University, Princeton University, and Montclair State University offer institutional scholarships that combine merit-based awards with need-based aid. Many private foundations and local organizations across the state also sponsor scholarships for New Jersey residents pursuing undergraduate degrees.

What Scholarships Are Available for Graduate Students in New Jersey?

Graduate students in New Jersey can apply for a variety of funding opportunities through state and institutional programs. The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Graduate Grant offers continued support for students who received EOF assistance during their undergraduate studies. Rutgers University offers numerous Graduate Fellowships that provide tuition coverage, stipends, or research funding for master’s and doctoral students. Additionally, professional associations like the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA) offer graduate scholarships to accounting students pursuing CPA certification. Many graduate schools also provide assistantships that include tuition remission and living stipends for research or teaching roles.

Are There Scholarships for Nursing Students in NJ?

Yes. New Jersey offers several scholarships and grant programs for students pursuing nursing and healthcare-related degrees. The New Jersey League for Nursing Scholarship supports nursing students enrolled in accredited programs within the state. The Governor’s Industry Vocations Scholarship (GIVS) also provides tuition assistance for students training for careers in high-demand industries, including healthcare and biotechnology. Additionally, hospital systems such as Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Hackensack Meridian Health often offer tuition reimbursement or scholarships to nursing students who commit to working within their networks after graduation.

What Are NJEA Scholarships?

The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) supports aspiring educators through various scholarship and grant opportunities. The NJEA Frederick L. Hipp Foundation for Excellence in Education provides grants to teachers and education students developing innovative classroom projects or advancing their training. Local NJEA affiliates and county education associations also offer scholarships to high school seniors planning to major in education, as well as to current educators pursuing graduate degrees or professional development. These programs reflect NJEA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the teaching profession across New Jersey.