Governor's Urban Scholarship

The Governor’s Urban Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship program that benefits students in New Jersey's economically challenged communities. Designated communities: Students must reside in one of the following communities at the time of high school nomination: Asbury Park, Camden, East Orange, Irvington Township, Jersey City, Lakewood, Millville City, Newark, New Brunswick, Paterson, Plainfield, Roselle, Trenton, Vineland. As with all New Jersey publicly-supported student assistance programs, the award is dependent on annual State funding.

Enrollment requirement:

  • Rank within the top 5% of their class and have a GPA of 3.0 higher at end of junior year in high school
  • To receive this award, students must enroll full time in an approved degree or certificate program at an eligible New Jersey college or university
  • Reside in one of the designated communities
  • Students must be citizens, eligible non-citizens or eligible to file the NJ Alternative Application for Financial Aid
  • Be a permanent NJ resident for at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to enrollment
  • Be registered with Selective Service System (if required)
  • Be enrolled full time in an approved degree or certificate program
  • Attend an approved NJ college, university, or degree granting proprietary school
  • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to qualify for renewal
  • Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or NJ Alternative Financial Aid Application within established state deadlines and meet all program requirements. 

How to Apply:

Candidates are selected for consideration by their high school based upon standard academic criteria in the fall of their senior year in high school. Award recipients are notified of their potential eligibility in December of their senior year in high school. Interested students should contact their high school counselor for more information.

For more information on the Governor's Urban Scholarship contact HESAA:

  • Online: www.njgrants.org
  • Phone: HESAA Customer Care Line at 609-584-4480
    • Monday to Thursday: 8am to 8pm
    • Friday: 8am to 5pm