CCOG/GSG Funding Programs

Explore financial support opportunities through RCSJ with CCOG and GSG funding programs designed to make college more affordable and accessible for eligible students through free or reduced tuition.

Do You Qualify for Free or Reduced Tuition?

Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG)

The Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) represents New Jersey’s commitment to offering tuition-free community college. Based on income, eligible New Jersey residents can pursue their first associate degree tuition-free at a New Jersey community college. CCOG covers the cost of any remaining tuition (up to 18 credits per term) and approved education fees for eligible students after all other grants and scholarships are applied.

Eligibility Details:

  • Be a New Jersey resident with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $0 – $65,000
  • Complete the FAFSA or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application each year by the applicable State deadline
  • Enroll in at least six (6) credits per semester at a community college in New Jersey.
    Note: For eligible students who attend a community college outside their home county, any additional tuition and fees charged to out-of-county students will not be covered. Only in-county rates for tuition and fees at the community college they are attending will be covered by the award.
  • Have not yet earned a college degree
  • Make satisfactory academic progress throughout participation in the program

Take the Next Steps to Find Your Funding

To be considered for all New Jersey financial aid, including need-based and merit-based grants and scholarships, complete the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students who qualify as NJ Dreamers must complete the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application.

Applications must be submitted by State deadlines:

  • April 15 for returning college students who received a Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) in the previous academic year.
  • September 15 for new college students enrolling in the fall semester and returning students who did not receive a Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) in the previous academic year.

How to Apply

  1. Apply for financial aid
    RCSJ School Code: 006901
  2. Complete your free RCSJ admission application
  3. Complete all New Jersey financial aid requirements for HESAA at NJ FAMS website
  4. Satisfy testing requirements either through exemption or by taking the Accuplacer
  5. Meet with an advisor and register for classes

Garden State Guarantee – Plan Your Bachelor’s Pathway

New Jersey state universities, like Rowan University, offer part two of CCOG called the Garden State Guarantee. Years three and four of study will be fully funded for students with an annual adjusted gross income (AGI) between $0 and $65,000. Students who have AGI’s between $65,001 and $80,000 will pay a discounted net price of no more than $7,500 for tuition and fees, while those with an AGI of $80,001 and $100,000 will pay a discounted net price of no more then $10,000 for tuition and fees.

Learn more about the Garden State Guarantee.