The Community College Opportunity Grant, or CCOG, helps New Jersey residents pursue their first associate degree at a state community college. It is last-dollar aid: after other grants and scholarships are applied, it covers remaining tuition and approved educational fees, up to 18 credits per term. “Tuition-free community college” does not include housing, transportation, books, or every student expense, and out-of-county tuition may leave a balance.
The current page sets an adjusted gross income range of $0 to $65,000, at least six credits per semester, and New Jersey residency. Students must file FAFSA or the state alternative application each year by the applicable deadline. If attending outside their home county, CCOG calculates aid using the in-county tuition rate and does not cover additional out-of-county charges. Compare local costs before choosing a campus.
The application connects to FAFSA or the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application; students who filed either are automatically considered for CCOG if eligible, but should check NJFAMS and provide any documents requested. For 2026–27, HESAA set September 15, 2026, for new fall-and-spring applicants; as of October 13 it has passed. Students beginning only in spring 2027 may apply through February 15, in addition to completing NJFAMS tasks. An incomplete file does not reserve funding.
The application connects to FAFSA or the NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application; students who filed either are automatically considered for CCOG if eligible, but should check NJFAMS and provide any documents requested. For 2026–27, HESAA set September 15, 2026, for new fall-and-spring applicants; as of October 13 it has passed. Students beginning only in spring 2027 may apply through February 15, in addition to completing NJFAMS tasks. An incomplete file does not reserve funding.
Before applying, confirm that the cycle is open and that you meet the official requirements. Gather FAFSA or the alternative form, transcript, supporting documents, and essays when required; keep a copy and receipt. Track the deadline separately from supporting-document dates. Check the portal until the file is complete and ask financial aid how the award coordinates with other aid. Do not budget money that has not been awarded.
When comparing options, distinguish scholarships, grants, waivers, and loans: not all are repaid or cover the same charges. Ask for a balance estimate after FAFSA and other aid, and confirm the rules before relying on the funds.
Read the program profile and the federal FAFSA guide; confirm with the administrator how the aid coordinates.
Community College Opportunity Grant — New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
CCOG Frequently Asked Questions — New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
State Deadlines AY 2026–2027 — New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority.
Guide checked against official sources on October 13, 2026. Eligibility, amounts, and calendars can change; confirm the current cycle with the administrator and your school financial-aid office. Applying does not guarantee an award.
Confirm current eligibility and application steps with the official source before relying on the aid for college costs.
Options to compare
These options relate to the question. Read each profile and check current details before deciding.
Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG)
The Community College Opportunity Grant, or CCOG, helps New Jersey residents pursue their first associate degree at a state community college. It is last-dollar aid: after other grants and scholarships are applied, it covers remaining tuition and approved educational fees, up to 18 credits per term. “Tuition-free community college” does not include housing, transportation, books, or every student expense, and out-of-county tuition may leave a balance.
College scholarship and financial-aid program
Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education
The agency sets rates, eligibility, and caps; the college certifies need, cost, and the individual amount within those limits.
Public student-aid administering office
Sources & references
Sources for the information and reporting discussed in this guide.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official program information and application ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) ↗
Primary source
New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.
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Official website of Federal Student Aid — U.S. Department of Education ↗
Primary source
Federal Student Aid · Accessed October 13, 2026
Primary source for identity, concept, menu, and contact details.