Grants are free money that you don’t have to pay back. If you qualify, they’re one of the best ways to lower your out-of-pocket college costs.
Not sure where to start?
Watch this quick video from Federal Student Aid to learn about the different types of financial aid, including grants, loans, and work-study.
Federal Pell Grants are for students with high financial need. Award amounts vary each year and depend on your enrollment status and FAFSA results.
Watch this video to learn how Pell Grants can help you pay for college.
It explains how the grant works - who qualifies, how much you could get, and why it’s a great first stop when you apply for grants.
FSEOG is for students with exceptional financial need. Limited funds are available, so the earlier you apply, the better.
Watch this video if you want a short breakdown of the FSEOG grant.
The TAG program helps New Jersey students pay for college based on financial need. It's one of the largest sources of state-funded aid and does not need to be repaid. To be eligible, you must be a New Jersey resident, enrolled full-time in an approved college, and submit the FAFSA or New Jersey Alternative Application by the deadline.
Learn more and check your eligibility on the HESAA website:
New Jersey Tuition Aid Grant (TAG)
The EOF grant supports New Jersey students from educationally and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. It provides both financial assistance (up to $3,050 per year) and academic support like tutoring and mentoring. To be eligible, you need to demonstrate financial need, be a New Jersey resident, complete the FAFSA or New Jersey Alternative Application, and participate in an admissions interview.
Learn more and check your eligibility on the NJ Higher Education website:
New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
NJ STARS is a state-funded scholarship for top-performing New Jersey high school students. If you graduate in the top 15% of your class, NJ STARS covers your full tuition at your home county college for up to five semesters (12–18 credits per semester). To stay eligible, you’ll need to maintain at least a 3.0 GPA and stay enrolled full-time.
Learn more and check if you qualify for NJ STARS:
The CCOG program covers the cost of tuition and approved educational fees that aren't already paid for by federal and state aid or scholarships. If your household’s adjusted gross income (AGI) is between $0 and $65,000, you may qualify. CCOG is part of New Jersey’s effort to make community college more affordable for more students.
When you fill out the FAFSA or the New Jersey Alternative Application, your eligibility for CCOG is automatically reviewed so make sure you submit it on time.
Learn more and check your eligibility on the state’s CCOG page:
Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG)
