Previously, New Jersey Guard members were permitted to take 12 credits per semester tuition-free; the credits have been raised to 15.  This program allows members of the National Guard to attend a state college or university and pay only for books and student fees. Under the new bill New Jersey National Guard members in good standing can also use the tuition assistance in graduate programs at these same state colleges and universities.

•  Members of the National Guard have to meet certain qualifications to participate in the program:Complete initial active duty training and be in good standing as a part-time member of the New Jersey National Guard;

• Must be accepted to pursue a course of undergraduate/graduate study and be enrolled as a undergraduate/graduate student in the college or university;

•  Must apply for all available state and federal grants and/or scholarships that they are eligible for:

• There must be available classroom space in the class and tuition-paying students constitute the minimum required for the course.

Any child or surviving spouse of a member of the NJ National Guard who had completed initial active duty training and was killed in the performance of his or her duties while on active duty with the New Jersey National Guard may also take part in the program.

When looking at the cost of college today, this program can mean a tremendous savings.  Thirty New Jersey colleges and universities participate in the program, including Rutgers University,  NJ Institute of Technology, The College of New Jersey, and every community and county college in the state. 

For a full list of the colleges participating in the program, visit the following websites:
 http://www.state.nj.us/military/army/nj2.htm or http://www.state.nj.us/military/air/airlist.htm