NJ A2476

Secretary of Higher Education must conduct a study, in consultation with the Commissioner of Education, on why New Jersey high school graduates choose to attend out-of-state colleges and universities

Study will survey high school seniors from public and nonpublic schools and consult with guidance counselors to identify reasons for choosing out-of-state institutions

Research will examine academic characteristics of students, socio-economic factors of families, and compare academic rankings of out-of-state institutions with New Jersey colleges

Analysis will consider whether New Jersey's small geographic size and students' desire for independent living away from family contribute to outmigration

Secretary must submit a report with findings and recommendations for potential state actions to the Governor and Legislature within one year of the act taking effect