Education Grants for Single Mothers in New Jersey
New Jersey Education Grants for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide
Last updated: September 2025
This is a fast, practical walkthrough of the real programs that pay for college or job training in New Jersey. Every program below includes who qualifies, how much you can get, where to apply, deadlines, documents, and backup plans if you hit a wall.
Quick Help Box
- Apply for the FAFSA now. It unlocks Pell Grants and triggers New Jersey state aid. Federal deadline for 2025–26 is June 30, 2026; NJ state priority deadlines are much earlier. File ASAP. FAFSA overview and deadlines. (usa.gov)
- Create your NJFAMS account and watch your To‑Do List. This is how HESAA (the state aid agency) tells you what documents it needs. Log in to NJFAMS. (njfams.hesaa.org)
- Meet New Jersey’s 2025–26 state aid deadlines or you’ll miss free money. Renewals: FAFSA/NJ Alternative by April 15, 2025; new or non‑renewals: by September 15, 2025. Finish NJFAMS tasks by October 1, 2025. Official HESAA state deadlines. (hesaa.org)
- If your adjusted gross income (AGI) is 0–0–100,000, check New Jersey College Promise (CCOG for community college + GSG for years 3–4 at public universities). It can drop your net tuition/fees to 0∗∗orcapthemat∗∗0** or cap them at **7,500 or $10,000 per year depending on AGI tier. NJ College Promise details. (hesaa.org)
- Need live help? Call HESAA Customer Care at 609‑584‑4480 (Mon–Thu 8am–8pm; Fri 8am–5pm). State Financial Aid info. (nj.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (2025–26)
| Program | Who It Helps | 2025–26 Amount/Limit | Apply/Where | Deadlines & Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Pell Grant | Low‑ to moderate‑income undergrads | Up to 7,395∗∗(min∗∗7,395** (min **740) | File FAFSA at StudentAid.gov | Federal deadline June 30, 2026; file ASAP. (fsapartners.ed.gov, usa.gov) |
| FSEOG (campus-based) | Students with highest need (often Pell‑eligible) | 100–100–4,000/yr, set by school | FAFSA; school awards | Limited funds—apply early. (fsapartners.ed.gov) |
| Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) | NJ residents at in‑state colleges | Varies by NJEI and school sector (see table below; e.g., up to $14,404 at independents) | FAFSA/NJ Alternative + NJFAMS | NJ: Renewals Apr 15, 2025; New/Non‑renewals Sept 15, 2025. TAG page. (hesaa.org) |
| NJ College Promise—CCOG | Community college, AGI 0–0–100k | Covers tuition/approved fees last‑dollar (free at 0–0–65k; partial for 65k–65k–100k) | FAFSA/NJ Alternative | State deadlines above. CCOG page. (hesaa.org) |
| NJ College Promise—GSG | Years 3–4 at NJ public universities | Net tuition/fees 0∗∗(AGI∗∗0** (AGI **0–65k∗∗);cap∗∗65k**); cap **7,500 (65,001–65,001–80k); cap 10,000∗∗(∗∗10,000** (**80,001–$100k) | FAFSA/NJ Alternative | Deadlines above. GSG page. (hesaa.org) |
| EOF Grant | Students from educationally/economically disadvantaged backgrounds | 200–200–3,050/yr | FAFSA/NJ Alternative + campus EOF | Income scale below. OSHE EOF. (nj.gov) |
| NJ STARS | Top 15% HS grads at home community college | Tuition covered (after other aid) up to 5 semesters | School + HESAA | See HESAA STARS. (hesaa.org) |
| NJ STARS II | STARS grads transferring to 4‑yr NJ college | $2,500/yr (up to 4 semesters) | School + HESAA | See HESAA STARS II. (hesaa.org) |
| Foster Care Scholars (NJFC/ETV) | Current/former foster youth | ETV up to $5,000/yr; other supports | Apply via embrella | Deadlines vary; see program. (embrella.org) |
| NJ National Guard Tuition Program | Guard members/spouses/children (qualifying) | Up to 16 credits/semester tuition‑free at NJ publics | College + Guard forms + FAFSA | Check campus veterans office. (education.njarmyguard.com) |
Start Here: The fastest path to New Jersey aid
Most important action first:
- File the FAFSA (or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application for NJ Dreamers) and create your NJFAMS account. Your FAFSA unlocks Pell and triggers state programs like TAG, CCOG, GSG, EOF, and more. FAFSA basics. NJ Alternative Application (for NJ Dreamers). NJFAMS login. (usa.gov, hesaa.org, njfams.hesaa.org)
Short timeline reality check:
- FAFSA online processing generally takes a few days; state review may take weeks, and colleges post awards after they receive data. New Jersey has strict 2025–26 state deadlines: renewals by April 15, 2025, new/non‑renewals by September 15, 2025, and complete your NJFAMS State Record by October 1, 2025 (or within 30 days of notice). Don’t wait. (hesaa.org)
Required documents (keep digital copies ready):
- Photo ID; Social Security Number/ITIN (if you have one)
- 2023 tax return and W‑2s (for 2025–26 FAFSA/NJ Alternative)
- Proof of NJ residency (license/lease/utility bill) if requested
- Child support order (if applicable)
- For NJFAMS: respond to every “To‑Do” item fast; upload exactly what they ask.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Call HESAA Customer Care at 609‑584‑4480 for help with NJFAMS or state questions. Ask for a supervisor if you get stuck. (nj.gov)
- If the FAFSA doesn’t reflect a recent loss of income or separation, speak to your college’s aid office about a professional judgment review for state aid (HESAA allows limited state‑aid adjustments). (hesaa.org)
Federal Grants You Should Claim
Federal Pell Grant (2025–26)
Most important action first:
- File the FAFSA now; Pell is automatic if you qualify.
Key numbers:
- Maximum award 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740 for 2025–26 (July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026). Awards depend on your Student Aid Index (SAI), family size, and enrollment intensity. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- You can receive up to 150% of your annual Pell in a year if attending summer (“year‑round Pell”). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
How to apply:
- FAFSA only. You do not apply separately for Pell.
Deadline and timeline:
- Federal FAFSA deadline June 30, 2026, but file ASAP to stack with state aid. (usa.gov)
Required documents:
- See checklist above.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your SAI is just above Pell range, focus on NJTAG/CCOG/GSG below and campus emergency funds. Ask your aid office about a professional judgment if your income fell recently.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Most important action first:
- File FAFSA early and ask your aid office if your school still has FSEOG funds.
Key numbers:
- 100–100–4,000 per year; your school decides amounts and funds are limited. Often goes to Pell‑eligible students with highest need. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
How to apply:
- FAFSA only; your college awards it until funds run out.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about Federal Work‑Study, institutional grants, or emergency bursar credits. Then move to state options below.
New Jersey’s Biggest Tuition Cutters
New Jersey Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) — 2025–26 award table
Most important action first:
- File FAFSA/NJ Alternative by the NJ deadlines and complete all NJFAMS tasks.
How TAG works:
- Need‑based; award depends on your New Jersey Eligibility Index (NJEI) and the sector of your school (county college, state college, public research, or independent). HESAA publishes the official table each year. (hesaa.org)
2025–26 TAG award table (partial extract for quick scanning)
| NJEI Range | County Colleges (annual) | State Colleges (annual) | Public Research (annual) | Independent Non‑Public (annual) | Part‑Time at County (per semester, 6–8 / 9–11 credits) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 1500 | $3,098 | $9,496 | $10,964 | $14,404 | 774/774 / 1,161 |
| 1500–2499 | $2,546 | $7,922 | $9,174 | $11,522 | 636/636 / 954 |
| 2500–3499 | $2,206 | $6,706 | $8,168 | $10,134 | 551/551 / 827 |
| 3500–4499 | $1,720 | $5,554 | $7,044 | $9,078 | 430/430 / 645 |
| 4500–5499 | $1,280 | $4,604 | $6,142 | $8,016 | 320/320 / 480 |
| 5500–6499 | $0 | $3,594 | $5,238 | $6,968 | 0/0 / 0 |
Source: HESAA Tuition Aid Grant Award Table for Academic Year 2025–26 (published Aug 14, 2025). (hesaa.org)
How to apply:
- FAFSA or NJ Alternative + respond to NJFAMS items. TAG program page. (hesaa.org)
Deadlines:
- Renewals: April 15, 2025. New/non‑renewals: September 15, 2025. Complete NJFAMS record by October 1, 2025 (or within 30 days of notice). (hesaa.org)
Timeline:
- Awards typically appear in your college portal after HESAA finalizes eligibility and your school certifies enrollment (often late summer into fall).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Use the HESAA appeal routes listed on the TAG page (changes like job loss, divorce, death). Also check whether Summer TAG could help you catch up credits. (hesaa.org)
NJ College Promise: CCOG (community colleges) + GSG (years 3–4)
Most important action first:
- File FAFSA/NJ Alternative and enroll the required number of credits.
Key numbers and rules:
- Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG): tuition + approved fees are last‑dollar covered for AGI 0–0–65,000. Reduced tuition for 65,001–65,001–80,000 (up to 50% of max award) and 80,001–80,001–100,000 (up to one‑third of max award). Must enroll in at least 6 credits per term and not already hold a degree. (hesaa.org, hesaa.org)
- Garden State Guarantee (GSG): at NJ public 4‑year schools, net tuition/fees are 0∗∗inyears3–4forAGI∗∗0** in years 3–4 for AGI **0–65k∗∗;cappedat∗∗65k**; capped at **7,500 for 65,001–65,001–80k and 10,000∗∗for∗∗10,000** for **80,001–$100k. Must enroll full‑time (12+ credits). (hesaa.org)
- State deadlines apply; see above. You’re automatically considered when you file. (hesaa.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you attend part‑time at a 4‑year, look at TAG + institutional grants, or attend community college under CCOG, then transfer in year 3 under GSG.
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
Most important action first:
- Contact your target college’s EOF office early; seats are limited and campus‑based.
Key numbers:
- Undergraduate EOF grants range 200–200–3,050 per year depending on campus and need. (nj.gov)
- 2025–26 income scale (independent/dependent rules apply). Examples: Household of 1—max income 30,120∗∗(assetcap∗∗30,120** (asset cap **6,024); 2—40,880∗∗;3—∗∗40,880**; 3—**51,640; 4—62,400∗∗;add∗∗62,400**; add **10,760 per person. Source uses the official 2025–26 scale. (shp.rutgers.edu)
How to apply:
- Apply/submit FAFSA (or NJ Alternative), and ask the campus EOF office for its steps and summer program (many require it).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- You can still receive other state/federal aid; ask about TRIO/SSS or campus student‑parent programs for tutoring and advising.
Merit and Special‑Population State Programs
NJ STARS (community college) and NJ STARS II (transfer to 4‑year)
Most important action first:
- If your high school ranked you in the top 15%, notify your community college and file FAFSA/NJ Alternative on time.
Key numbers:
- NJ STARS covers community college tuition (12–18 credits/term) after other grants/scholarships, up to five semesters. (bergen.edu)
- NJ STARS II pays $2,500 per academic year for up to four semesters at a participating NJ 4‑year college if you graduate from community college with GPA ≥ 3.25 (income limit applies). (hesaa.org)
Contacts:
- HESAA STARS help: 800‑792‑8670 or 609‑588‑3594; email NJSTARS@hesaa.org. (kean.edu)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Even if “unfunded” under STARS because other aid covers tuition, you can still qualify for STARS II later—keep your GPA up. (bergen.edu)
Governor’s Industry Vocations Scholarship (GIVS) and Governor’s Urban Scholarship (GUS)
Most important action first:
- For construction‑related certificates/degrees at approved NJ schools, check GIVS. For GUS, ask your HS counselor (nomination‑based, top 5% GPA 3.0+ in designated municipalities). HESAA NJ Scholarships hub. (hesaa.org)
Note: Award amounts for GUS vary by state appropriations each year; confirm current amounts in NJFAMS or with HESAA.
Foster Care Scholars (NJFC) and Education & Training Voucher (ETV)
Most important action first:
- If you were in foster care/kinship care, contact embrella for NJFC/ETV right away.
Key numbers:
- ETV provides up to $5,000/year for eligible students; NJFC can help with tuition, fees, housing, textbooks, child care, computers, transport, and more. (embrella.org, nj.gov)
Timeline:
- Completed applications are usually processed in 3–5 weeks; priority deadlines apply (e.g., July 1 for fall priority). (embrella.org)
Contact:
- embrella scholarships: 800‑222‑0047; scholarships@embrella.org. (embrella.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your college about tuition waivers for independent youth and year‑round housing access; combine with Pell/TAG.
NJ National Guard Tuition Program (NJNGTP)
Most important action first:
- If you serve in the NJ Guard, bring your Commander’s Certificate to your public college and file FAFSA.
Key numbers:
- Up to 16 credits per semester of tuition waived at NJ public colleges (you pay fees/books). Spouses/children of Guard members killed in the line of duty may also qualify. (education.njarmyguard.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about federal TA, GI Bill, and campus veterans’ waivers that can stack with NJNGTP.
Child Care While You Study (Important 2025 Update)
Most important action first:
- Check whether you’re already on the New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). As of August 1, 2025, NJ paused new CCAP applications due to funding limits. Existing cases continue if still eligible, but you cannot add new children after July 31, 2025. (childcarenj.gov)
Income limits (to understand if you’ll qualify once applications reopen):
- Ongoing eligibility up to 250% FPL (e.g., family of 3: 66,625∗∗);graduatedphase‑outforincomesbetween∗∗25066,625**); graduated phase‑out for incomes between **250% FPL** and **85% SMI** (family of 3: **108,303). Copays vary by income; copays waived at ≤100% FPL. Income charts and policy. (childcarenj.gov)
Plan B options while CCAP is paused:
- Head Start/Early Head Start (free/low‑cost). Call 866‑763‑6481 to find a center.
- Campus CCAMPIS‑funded care (if still operating at your college): examples include Rowan University’s Family Friendly Campus initiative and NJCU’s Children’s Learning Center (50% tuition discount for Pell‑eligible parents; 201‑200‑3342). Availability is changing in 2025 due to federal funding decisions; ask your campus child care center directly. (education.rowan.edu, njcu.edu)
- School‑district Pre‑K for 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds in many NJ districts.
- If you need help finding alternatives or emergency resources, dial 2‑1‑1 or 877‑652‑1148 (text your ZIP to 898‑211). (nj211.org)
Adult Learners, Job Training, and “Tuition Waiver” Paths
Most important action first:
- If unemployed, meet with a One‑Stop Career Center counselor before enrolling anywhere. Some grants require prior approval.
Key programs:
- Unemployed Person’s Tuition Waiver (space‑available at public colleges; tuition only, not fees). Check your college’s instructions (e.g., Bergen CC requires a current DOL waiver form; fees are your responsibility). (bergen.edu)
- Additional Benefits During Training (ABT): after UI runs out, you may receive up to 26 weeks of benefits to finish approved training—must coordinate with One‑Stop and get your training approved. (nj.gov)
- WIOA‑funded training grants and On‑the‑Job Training (for eligible jobseekers). Start at your county One‑Stop; they assess for training vouchers and programs on the Eligible Training Provider List. (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Pay It Forward: zero‑interest, fee‑free last‑dollar loans with living stipends for specific high‑demand programs (nursing, cybersecurity, HVAC/welding, radiologic tech). Payments are income‑based for up to five years; if earnings are below a minimum threshold, payment can be $0 and remaining balance can be forgiven after the term. See the Student Bill of Rights and partner school lists. (socialfinance.org, nj.gov)
Find your local One‑Stop:
- Use NJDOL’s location list to get addresses and schedule an appointment. These centers can issue training approvals and advise on tuition waivers. Find a One‑Stop. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about employer‑sponsored apprenticeships and tuition assistance; NJ has active apprenticeship and OJT incentives for employers that may open doors to paid training. (nj.gov)
Tables You Can Use Today
Table A — FAFSA and New Jersey State Deadlines (2025–26)
| Task | Deadline |
|---|---|
| FAFSA federal deadline (’25–’26) | June 30, 2026 |
| NJ renewals (received TAG in ’24–’25) — file FAFSA/NJ Alternative | April 15, 2025 |
| New/non‑renewals (fall 2025) — file FAFSA/NJ Alternative | September 15, 2025 |
| Complete NJFAMS State Record tasks | October 1, 2025 (or 30 days from notice) |
Sources: USAGov FAFSA; HESAA 2025–26 deadlines. (usa.gov, hesaa.org)
Table B — EOF Income Eligibility Scale (2025–26) and Asset Caps
| Household Size | Max Gross Income | Max Asset Cap |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $30,120 | $6,024 |
| 2 | $40,880 | $8,176 |
| 3 | $51,640 | $10,328 |
| 4 | $62,400 | $12,480 |
| 5 | $73,160 | $14,632 |
| 6 | $83,920 | $16,784 |
| 7 | $94,680 | $18,936 |
| 8 | $105,440 | $21,088 |
| Add per person | +$10,760 | +$2,152 |
Source: Official 2025–26 EOF scale (Rutgers SHP). (shp.rutgers.edu)
Table C — TAG at a Glance (Annual Awards, 2025–26)
| NJEI | County College | State Colleges | Public Research | Independent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 1500 | $3,098 | $9,496 | $10,964 | $14,404 |
| 1500–2499 | $2,546 | $7,922 | $9,174 | $11,522 |
| 2500–3499 | $2,206 | $6,706 | $8,168 | $10,134 |
Source: HESAA TAG Award Table (AY 2025–26). See full table for more ranges and part‑time county awards. (hesaa.org)
Table D — NJ College Promise Income Tiers and Net Price
| Program | AGI Tier | Net Price for Tuition/Approved Fees | Credit Load |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCOG (community colleges) | 0–0–65,000 | $0 (last‑dollar) | 6+ credits |
| CCOG | 65,001–65,001–80,000 | Up to 50% of max CCOG award | 6+ credits |
| CCOG | 80,001–80,001–100,000 | Up to one‑third of max CCOG award | 6+ credits |
| GSG (years 3–4 at public 4‑years) | 0–0–65,000 | $0 (last‑dollar) | 12+ credits |
| GSG | 65,001–65,001–80,000 | ≤ $7,500 per year | 12+ credits |
| GSG | 80,001–80,001–100,000 | ≤ $10,000 per year | 12+ credits |
Source: HESAA NJ College Promise pages (CCOG/GSG). (hesaa.org)
Table E — Application Checklist (print this)
| Item | Check |
|---|---|
| Create FSA ID; gather 2023 tax info | ☐ |
| File 2025–26 FAFSA (or NJ Alternative) | ☐ |
| Create NJFAMS; check To‑Do items weekly | ☐ |
| Upload requested docs (tax transcript, ID, residency proof) | ☐ |
| Meet deadlines: Apr 15 (renewals), Sept 15 (new), Oct 1 (NJFAMS tasks) | ☐ |
| Confirm enrollment intensity (6+ credits for CCOG; 12+ for GSG) | ☐ |
| Ask about EOF, STARS, STARS II, campus grants | ☐ |
| If unemployed: meet One‑Stop counselor before enrolling | ☐ |
| If you need child care: check campus child care/Head Start; note CCAP pause | ☐ |
Real‑World Examples (how aid “stacks”)
Example 1: Community college, AGI $42,000, 9 credits (single parent)
- FAFSA filed → Pell award (amount depends on SAI; many single parents qualify for partial to full Pell up to $7,395). (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- TAG based on NJEI + county sector (e.g., 1,720–1,720–3,098 depending on NJEI). (hesaa.org)
- CCOG covers remaining tuition/approved fees after Pell/TAG because AGI is ≤65,000∗∗.Nettuition/approvedfees:∗∗65,000**. Net tuition/approved fees: **0 (books/transport still on you). (hesaa.org)
Example 2: Year 3 at NJ public university, AGI $76,000, 12 credits
- Pell may be small or zero depending on SAI. TAG could apply based on NJEI. GSG caps net tuition/fees at $7,500 for the year (after other grants). (hesaa.org)
Reality check: Your actual bill depends on your school’s tuition/fees and how your aid packages together. Always check your portal and ask your aid office to re‑review if something looks off.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing New Jersey state deadlines (they are earlier than the federal FAFSA). Put reminders for April 15, September 15, and October 1. (hesaa.org)
- Skipping NJFAMS tasks. A single missing document can block TAG/CCOG/GSG.
- Enrolling in too few credits: CCOG needs 6+ credits; GSG needs 12+. (hesaa.org)
- Not reporting life changes. If you had a job loss, separation, or other eligible change, ask your school about a state‑aid reevaluation per HESAA rules. (hesaa.org)
- Ignoring child care planning. NJ’s CCAP is not accepting new applications as of Aug 1, 2025; line up campus care, Head Start, or family help early. (childcarenj.gov)
Local Organizations and Practical Help
- NJ 2‑1‑1: 24/7 referrals for child care, rent help, food, legal help. Dial 2‑1‑1 or 877‑652‑1148; text ZIP to 898‑211. Get Help page. (nj211.org)
- Salvation Army (multiple NJ corps; emergency aid that can help keep you in school). Newark Area Services 973‑623‑5959; Camden Kroc 856‑379‑6900; Jersey City 201‑435‑7355; Trenton 609‑599‑9373. NJ Division locations. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
- One‑Stop Career Centers (training approvals, tuition waivers, job search): see addresses statewide and request appointments. Find a One‑Stop. (nj.gov)
- NJCU Children’s Learning Center (campus child care; CCAMPIS‑based aid for Pell parents): 201‑200‑3342. Program details. (njcu.edu)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Notes
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Some campus women’s centers and LGBTQ+ centers coordinate childcare swaps and emergency aid. For state aid, eligibility is the same; focus on FAFSA/NJFAMS. For legal name/gender updates on records, ask your registrar early each term.
Single mothers with disabilities or raising disabled children
- If disability affects enrollment intensity, ask Disability Services to coordinate reasonable accommodations; then talk to Financial Aid about maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress with documented circumstances (important for TAG/CCOG/GSG). Ask Vocational Rehabilitation about training support via DVRS.
Veteran single mothers
- Combine VA benefits with NJNGTP (if in the Guard) or with TAG/CCOG/GSG; NJNGTP pays last after other grants. Use your campus Veterans Services to certify benefits. (njcu.edu)
Immigrant/Refugee single moms and NJ Dreamers
- If you’re ineligible for FAFSA, complete the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application to access TAG, CCOG, GSG, EOF, STARS, etc. How to apply (NJ Dreamers). Deadlines mirror FAFSA state dates. (hesaa.org)
Tribal citizens
- Combine federal tribal education funds with NJ aid. Ask your tribal education office for certification. State aid (TAG/CCOG/GSG) is available to NJ residents who meet general rules.
Rural single moms with limited access
- Consider hybrid/online programs through NJ publics; financial aid applies. If child care is a barrier and CCAP is closed, push for asynchronous options and extended deadlines; use One‑Stop for training options near you. (childcarenj.gov, nj.gov)
Single fathers parenting solo
- All programs here are based on status and financial need, not gender. File FAFSA/NJFAMS and use the same playbook.
Language access
- HESAA publications and NJFAMS have English/Spanish options; many colleges have language assistance. Bring a trusted adult to meetings if you need interpretation help (or request an interpreter from the office in advance). (hesaa.org)
FAQs (New Jersey‑specific, 2025)
- What’s the fastest way to see if I qualify for NJ aid?
File the FAFSA (or NJ Alternative), create NJFAMS, and check your To‑Do list. HESAA will post your eligibility once your record is complete. Deadlines: Apr 15, 2025 (renewals) and Sept 15, 2025 (new/non‑renewals). (hesaa.org) - What’s the 2025–26 Pell maximum?
Up to 7,395∗∗;minimum∗∗7,395**; minimum **740. (fsapartners.ed.gov) - How much TAG could I get at a county college if my NJEI is under 1500?
About $3,098 (annual), per the 2025–26 table; part‑time county awards are available. (hesaa.org) - My AGI is 72,000∗∗.CanIgetCollegePromise?Yes.CCOGmayreducetuitionatcommunitycollege(upto5072,000**. Can I get College Promise? Yes. CCOG may reduce tuition at community college (up to 50% of maximum award), and in years 3–4 GSG caps net tuition/fees at **7,500 per year at NJ public universities. (hesaa.org)
- Is EOF only about money?
No. EOF also provides advising, tutoring, and summer programs. Grants range 200–200–3,050/yr and 2025–26 income limits are published (see table). (nj.gov, shp.rutgers.edu) - I’m in the top 15% of my class. What do STARS and STARS II pay?
STARS covers community college tuition (after other aid) for up to five semesters; STARS II pays $2,500/year for up to four semesters after transfer. (bergen.edu, hesaa.org) - I’m a Guard member. Is college really free?
Tuition (not fees/books) up to 16 credits/semester at NJ public institutions can be waived if you meet criteria and file FAFSA. (education.njarmyguard.com) - Can I still get child care help while in school?
CCAP is closed to new applications as of Aug 1, 2025; existing cases continue. Try Head Start, campus child care/CCAMPIS if available, or district Pre‑K. (childcarenj.gov) - I lost my job. Can the state help pay for training?
Yes—see One‑Stop Career Centers for WIOA training grants, ABT (up to 26 extra weeks of UI during approved training), and the Unemployed Person’s Tuition Waiver (space‑available). (nj.gov, bergen.edu) - Who can I call when I’m stuck?
HESAA Customer Care 609‑584‑4480; NJ 2‑1‑1 (877‑652‑1148) for local assistance; your county One‑Stop for training approvals. (nj.gov, nj211.org)
What to Submit: Required Documents (by program)
- FAFSA/NJ Alternative: 2023 tax return/W‑2s, SSN/ITIN (if any), ID, household info. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- NJFAMS: additional verification documents (HESAA will list them). (njfams.hesaa.org)
- EOF: campus EOF application + income docs matching the 2025–26 scale. (shp.rutgers.edu)
- STARS: proof of class rank, full‑time enrollment. (bergen.edu)
- NJNGTP: Commander’s Certificate of Eligibility; FAFSA; registration proof. (education.njarmyguard.com)
- NJFC/ETV: FAFSA/NJ Alternative and program application in embrella portal. Processing usually 3–5 weeks when complete. (embrella.org)
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Timelines
- State aid isn’t automatic. If NJFAMS shows missing items, your award won’t pay. Do the To‑Do list fast.
- Award amounts can change if your enrollment changes (dropping below 6 or 12 credits affects CCOG/GSG; part‑time TAG is only at county colleges). (hesaa.org)
- 2025 child care crunch: with CCAP closed to new applications, line up alternatives early (Head Start, campus centers, family). (childcarenj.gov)
- Build in time: HESAA deadlines are hard. If you miss Sept 15, 2025, you risk losing 2025–26 state grants. (hesaa.org)
What to Do if an Application Is Denied
- Ask for the reason in writing. Fix the exact issue (missing signature, wrong tax year, residency proof).
- Appeal with documentation if you had an eligible circumstance change (death, disability, separation, job loss). State rules allow limited reevaluations. (hesaa.org)
- Escalate: HESAA Customer Care 609‑584‑4480; then your college aid director.
- Use Plan B: NJ College Promise tiers, EOF, STARS/STARS II, or One‑Stop training vouchers; apply for campus emergency funds and payment plans.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, HESAA, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education, U.S. Department of Education, and established nonprofits. It follows our Editorial Standards: primary sources (.gov, official program pages), linked application portals, tested links at publication, and change‑tracking. We prioritize accuracy, inclusivity, and practical steps. See our full standards at Editorial Policy – ASingleMother.org. Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Disclaimer
Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility can change after publication. Always verify current amounts, deadlines, and documents with the relevant agency or your college’s financial aid office before making decisions. We do not provide legal advice or guarantee individual outcomes. For site security and your privacy, do not share sensitive personal information in public comments or unsecured forms.
Sources cited (selected):
- Federal Pell Grant maximum/minimum for 2025–26: U.S. Department of Education Dear Colleague Letter. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- FAFSA federal deadline: USAGov FAFSA page. (usa.gov)
- HESAA state deadlines 2025–26: HESAA Deadlines page. (hesaa.org)
- TAG overview and 2025–26 award table: HESAA TAG page and TAG Table PDF (dated Aug 14, 2025). (hesaa.org)
- NJ College Promise (CCOG/GSG) rules and AGI tiers: HESAA program pages. (hesaa.org)
- EOF grant range and 2025–26 income scale: OSHE EOF page; Rutgers SHP EOF scale. (nj.gov, shp.rutgers.edu)
- FSEOG amounts: Federal Student Aid Handbook/2025–26 campus‑based funding notice. (fsapartners.ed.gov)
- STARS/STARS II program amounts: HESAA scholarships page; college pages. (hesaa.org)
- NJFC/ETV amounts and timelines: embrella NJFC program; NJ DCF page. (embrella.org, nj.gov)
- NJ National Guard Tuition Program details: NJ DMAVA Education Services. (education.njarmyguard.com)
- CCAP pause and income/SMI charts: ChildCareNJ.gov Important Information and CCAP page (notice effective Aug 1, 2025). (childcarenj.gov)
- One‑Stop Centers list: NJDOL. (nj.gov)
- NJ 2‑1‑1 contact: NJ 2‑1‑1 Partnership. (nj211.org)
- HESAA Customer Care contact/hours: NJ state financial aid info page. (nj.gov)
This article avoids fluff and focuses on verified steps and numbers to help you move forward today.
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