NJ's Free Community College Program Is Now Permanent (UPDATED)

NEW JERSEY — The future is looking bright for a state grant program that covers the tuition costs of attending community college in New Jersey.

As part of his fourth annual budget address, Gov. Phil Murphy announced that the state plans to invest $27 million in the Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) program. Murphy’s total proposed budget comes to $44.8 billion. Read More: No New Tax Increases, Fees For NJ Amid COVID, Gov. Murphy Says

On Friday, Murphy signed legislation that makes the program a permanent part of the state's budget (see below).

Launched in 2018, the CCOG provides free tuition for qualifying students in households earning $65,000 or less. The program is "last-dollar," meaning that the awards cover any balance of tuition and approved fees that remain after all other possible grants and scholarships are taken into account.

The program is now available at every community college in New Jersey, and impacts thousands of students each academic year.

“Three years ago, we instituted the Community College Opportunity Grant program, which is allowing thousands of qualified students – whether they be young people planning their futures or older residents returning to school for new opportunities – to earn an associate’s degree tuition-free,” Murphy said.

According to a budget summary from the governor’s office, enrollment in the program has increased by more than 140 percent since spring 2019.

Colleges participating in the initial version of the free tuition pilot included Atlantic Cape Community College, Bergen Community College, Camden County College, Cumberland County College, Hudson County Community College, Mercer County Community College, Middlesex County College, Ocean County College, Passaic County Community College, Rowan College at Gloucester County, Salem Community College, Union County College and Warren County Community College.

During a second round of funding, the following colleges were added to the list: Essex County College, Brookdale Community College, County College of Morris, Raritan Valley Community College, Rowan College at Burlington County and Sussex County Community College.

• See related article: NJ Continues 'Free College' Program, Makes It Easier To Qualify
• See related article: NJ's 'Free Tuition' Program Is A Big Hit At Essex County College

MAKING IT PERMANENT

In 2020, several Democratic New Jersey state legislators threw their support behind a bill that would make the "free community college" program a permanent part of the state's future.

On Friday, the governor signed A4410 into law, which cements the program into future state budgets.

“For far too long, higher education has been out of reach for countless New Jerseyans due to its high cost,” Murphy said. “Today’s bill signing underscores our continued commitment to college affordability, ensuring that our young people and working adults have the opportunity to earn post-secondary degrees and advance their promising careers.”

Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, Assemblywoman Mila Jasey and Assemblyman Daniel Benson also issued a joint statement about the new law.

“The rising costs of college tuition, books and fees are often out of reach for many college students and their families. A college degree has become the standard for entry into many industries and workplaces, but too many students must take on enormous debt in pursuit of higher education and a successful career. The Community College Opportunity Grant closes the gap for middle class and low-income students, helping to balance costs not covered by State and federal aid. It makes college more affordable and accessible for students who may not otherwise be able to further their education. We’ve already seen this program’s outstanding potential to open doors for students across New Jersey. We are proud this new state law will benefit future generations.”

"The Community College Opportunity Grant Program has provided valuable opportunities for low-income students and working parents to advance their education and expand their career opportunities," said Sen. Teresa Ruiz, chair of the Senate Education Committee.

"Education is our greatest equalizer and today, by codifying this program into state law, we have assured that it will be available to all who need it in the years to come," Ruiz added.

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