Paying for College: Availability of Need-based Financial Aid for New Jersey's Working Adults

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation, Center for Women and Work, Brandon Roberts & Associates, Ford Foundation and Joyce Foundation

September 11, 2010

Summary

While New Jerseyans fare better than their counterparts in other states regarding access to need-based financial aid for higher education, barriers exist for low-income working adult students. This policy brief identifies challenges in accessing financial aid – from availability and restrictions to application requirements – and what can be done to more effectively meet the needs of low-income working families. 

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Access to funds requires a Paradigm Shift

With more than two-thirds of New Jersey’s projected job growth in occupations that require some higher education, access to education and training is critical for low-income working adults and employers. Improved access to need-based financial aid will require a paradigm shift by policymakers and others to meet workforce needs.

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