To encourage more residents to take advantage of higher education opportunities in New Jersey, the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) and the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) have launched a year-long statewide campaign. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the affordability, accessibility, and value of obtaining a college degree in the Garden State.
A postsecondary education offers significant benefits to graduates, including an average salary 53% higher for New Jersey residents with bachelor's degrees. The campaign's goal is to inform residents about financial aid and state support available for college students, made possible by unprecedented investments from the Murphy Administration in recent years. The call to action targets prospective students eligible for aid, including adults considering postsecondary education for the first time or returning to complete previously started degrees.
"I believe strongly that a college degree is a worthwhile pursuit that can help individuals achieve their career goals and broaden their horizons," said Governor Phil Murphy. "That's why I made it a top priority to make higher education accessible to more students in New Jersey. With enhanced financial aid and additional supports, students considering college have more options than ever."
"A college degree remains one of the most powerful tools for achieving upward social mobility, particularly for those historically marginalized," said New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education Brian K. Bridges. "Under the Murphy administration, we have partnered with various institutions across New Jersey to break down barriers and ensure all students, regardless of background, can access affordable and high-quality postsecondary education."
"New Jersey offers some of the most generous financial aid in the country," said HESAA Executive Director Margo Chaly, Esq. "Thanks to Governor Murphy's leadership, eligibility for financial aid has been expanded to help more residents afford college and allow eligible students to earn their degrees tuition-free."
The campaign employs strategic messaging in both English and Spanish using a digital-first strategy. It features real New Jersey students in video commercials, graphic ads, social media posts, digital billboards, and more. Some resources are also available for translation into additional languages. The aim is to reach residents where they are and encourage them to explore earning a degree by visiting CollegeForYou.NJ.Gov.
"Thanks to Governor Murphy's leadership, life-changing higher education is more accessible and affordable than ever," said Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole.
On the website CollegeForYou.NJ.Gov., visitors can find statistics on potential earnings for New Jersey college graduates; a searchable map and list of colleges eligible for aid; an extensive directory of two- and four-year degree programs offered in New Jersey; information on state aids; FAQs; downloadable resources detailing the college process; and messages from current students.
Since Governor Murphy took office, ongoing efforts include:
- Creation of New Jersey College Promise offering significantly reduced or free paths toward degrees.
- Expanded eligibility for state aid covering more students regardless of immigration status or family income.
- Increased investment in Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) providing financial support.
- Proactive outreach helping institutions re-enroll residents with some college but no degree.
- Frequent increases in Tuition Aid Grant amounts.
- Initiatives facilitating participation in specific career educational programs.
- Resources addressing mental health needs supporting student success.
For more information on affordable postsecondary education options in Garden State visit CollegeForYou.NJ.Gov.
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The Office of the Secretary of Higher Education (OSHE) is New Jersey’s lead agency for developing higher education policies under Secretary Brian Bridges' leadership focusing on equity, access, affordability. Learn more at nj.gov/highereducation.
The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) provides financial resources helping students continue beyond high school. More info at www.hesaa.org.
