Help me Understand NJ State Schools

Hey folks! So I'm a Jersey student looking into our in-state options. Can anyone clarify which colleges are part of the New Jersey state school system and possibly throw in some thoughts on tuition? I’m trying to keep financial sustainability at the front of my college selection process. Any info would be great!

Absolutely, I can help with that!

New Jersey's public system is broken up mainly into two categories: research universities and state colleges/universities. Here are some of the institutions in each category:

Research Universities:

1. Rutgers - New Brunswick

2. Rutgers - Newark

3. Rutgers - Camden

4. New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)

State Colleges/Universities:

1. Montclair State University

2. Kean University

3. The College of New Jersey (TCNJ)

4. New Jersey City University

5. William Paterson University

6. Ramapo College

7. Stockton University

8. Rowan University

In terms of tuition, the costs can vary, but public schools are generally more affordable for in-state residents than private institutions or out-of-state schools. When considering tuition, also consider factors like cost of living on- or off-campus, meal plans, books and supplies, and transportation costs.

For example, the 2023-24 tuition and fees at Rutgers - New Brunswick were roughly $17,000 for in-state students. Room and board added another $15,000 or so. Tuition and fees at TCNJ were about $20,000, but room and board were closer to $17,000. Check each school's financial aid website to get more specific, up-to-date information and to run your numbers through their net price calculator.

Keep in mind financial aid (grants, scholarships, work-study and loans) can offset some of these costs. Be sure to file the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your aid eligibility.

Remember: the net price is a more accurate way to understand what college will actually cost. That's total costs (tuition, room/board, etc) minus all grants and scholarships you receive.

I hope this helps give you a broad overview of public higher education in New Jersey! To gauge which of these institutions might be the best fit for you, consider factors beyond just tuition cost, such as academic programs, campus culture, size, and location.