New Jersey Dream Act

Financial Aid for Undocumented Students in New Jersey

In May 2018, Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation granting eligible undocumented students access to New Jersey State Financial Aid. This law expands upon the New Jersey Tuition Equality Act, also known as the New Jersey Dream Act, to provide access to state grants and scholarships and make college more affordable.

Who Is Eligible

To qualify for New Jersey Dream Act financial aid, students must:

  • Attend a New Jersey high school for three or more years
  • Graduate from a New Jersey high school or receive the equivalent diploma in New Jersey
  • Be an entering student or currently enrolled at an accredited New Jersey college or university
  • Submit an affidavit stating that:
    • You have filed an application to legalize your immigration status, or
    • You will file when eligible

Affidavits:

To receive state aid:

  • You must be enrolled full-time at a four-year institution
  • Or at least half-time at a two-year institution

How to Apply

To apply for New Jersey financial aid:

  1. Complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application through NJ HESAA
  2. Create your NJFAMS account
  3. Monitor NJFAMS for requests and submit all required documentation

NJ HESAA may request:

  • Parent tax returns (based on aid year)
  • Income documentation

Montclair will:

  • Verify your high school transcript
  • Confirm your diploma
  • Confirm your affidavit

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive a notification of eligibility, which is also sent to the University.

Important Deadlines

The State of New Jersey enforces strict deadlines.

Fall Term

  • First-time applicants: Submit application by September 15
  • Renewal applicants (received TAG previously): Submit by April 15
  • Complete all follow-up tasks by October 1

Spring Term

  • Students not enrolled in fall: Apply by February 15
  • Complete follow-up tasks by March 1 or within 30 days of notification

Note: Once you receive a TAG award, future deadlines may be earlier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application, including eligibility requirements, renewing your application, residency qualifications and available state financial aid programs.

You may be eligible for scholarships and state grants, including NJ TAG, EOF, NJ STARS and the Governor’s Urban Scholarship. Review eligibility requirements and complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.

No. You must meet the New Jersey Tuition Equality Act requirements, including attending and graduating from a New Jersey high school.

No. You must apply every year. If you transfer schools, you may need to submit your information again. Be mindful of annual deadlines.

No. Only students who meet the eligibility requirements under the New Jersey Tuition Equality Act qualify.