Scholarship Opportunity

NJ STARS

Offered by New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority

A merit scholarship covering tuition at a student’s home New Jersey county college for high-achieving state residents.

EssayNot required
RenewableYes
Grade LevelHigh School Senior, College Freshman, College Sophomore

AI Use Policy

No AI policy is stated

Application Timeline

Important application dates

This scholarship offers more than one application cycle. Review each window carefully before applying.

2026–27 State Record

OpensTo Be Announced
DeadlineOctober 1, 2026

Eligibility

  • Rank in the top 15.0% of the high school class at the end of junior or senior year.
  • Be a New Jersey resident for at least 12 consecutive months before high school graduation.
  • Enroll full time in a degree program at the home county college no later than the fifth semester after graduation.
  • Complete annual State and Federal financial-aid requirements.

Requirements

  • Apply to the home county college.
  • File the FAFSA or New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.
  • Complete the NJFAMS State record by the deadline.
  • Earn at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA by the start of the third semester for renewal.

How to Apply

  1. 1Apply for county-college admission.
  2. 2File the annual financial-aid application.
  3. 3Log into NJFAMS and complete all State tasks.
  4. 4Confirm NJ STARS eligibility with the college financial-aid office.