Back
to top
Governor Phil Murphy • Lt. Governor Tahesha Way

Some College, No Degree

See if you qualify.

Responsive image

In New Jersey, the cost of tuition should not stop you from earning your degree. That is one reason why New Jersey offers some of the most generous need-based financial aid per student in the nation. There are a number of State financial aid programs available to students who qualify, including Tuition Aid Grants (TAG), the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) and the Garden State Guarantee (GSG). Based on your income, your degree may be tuition-free!

To be considered for New Jersey financial aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application (if you are an NJ Dreamer). Additional financial information, including state application deadlines, are available through the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.

Keep reading for more information on CCOG and GSG.

New Jersey College Promise Program

The New Jersey College Promise Program is the State's commitment to creating an affordable pathway to a college degree. It consists of two life-changing programs used in tandem: the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) and the Garden State Guarantee (GSG) that promise transparent, predictable pricing for up to four years of college here in New Jersey. Based on your income, your degree may be tuition-free!

assistance
Community College Opportunity Grant

The Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) represents New Jersey's commitment to tuition-free community college. Based on income, eligible New Jersey students, including NJ Dreamers, can pursue their first associate's degree tuition-free at their local community college.

To be eligible for the Community College Opportunity Grant, students must:

  • Be a New Jersey resident with an AGI between $0 - $65,000
  • Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application by applicable state deadlines
  • Enroll in at least six (6) credits per semester at one of New Jersey's community colleges
  • Have not yet earned a college degree
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress
assistance
Garden State Guarantee

The Garden State Guarantee (GSG) enables eligible New Jersey residents to attend any in-state, public, four-year institution tuition-free during their third and fourth years of study toward their first bachelor's degree. GSG covers the cost of tuition that is not already covered by federal and state financial aid or other scholarships.

To be eligible for the Garden State Guarantee, students must:

  • Be a New Jersey resident with an AGI between $0 - $65,000
  • Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application by applicable state deadlines
  • Enroll full-time (at least 12 credits per semester) at a New Jersey public four-year college or university
  • Have not yet earned a Bachelor’s degree
  • Make satisfactory academic progress

Last Updated: Friday, 03/14/25