Loading chat...

NJ A586

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Gary Schaer

Click for details

Origin

General Assembly

2026-2027 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Creates the "New Jersey College Ready Students Program Act" providing tuition-free dual enrollment at county colleges for eligible public high school juniors and seniors
  • Eligible students may receive up to 3 credits tuition-free per semester, with a maximum of 6 credits per school year in both 11th and 12th grades
  • Eligibility is based on family financial need criteria matching the New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund standards, plus a minimum GPA requirement for college readiness set by the Commissioner of Education
  • Students must maintain a grade of C or higher in all program courses to continue eligibility; those not meeting GPA requirements may take one tuition-free remedial course per semester instead
  • The State covers all tuition costs, and the Commissioner of Education must submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature detailing participation, completion rates, credits earned, and post-graduation college enrollment plans

Legislative Description

Establishes "New Jersey College Ready Students Program Act"; provides tuition-free dual enrollment opportunities at county college for certain high school students.

Higher Education

Last Action

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Higher Education Committee

1/13/2026

Committee Referrals

Higher Education1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available