Savings Simulator
Estimate your total degree savings
*Simulating savings based on New Jersey Average's current in-state qualification rules.
Total Savings Goal
$23,856
Estimated Benefit Over 4 Years
New Jersey Universities
| University | In-State | Out-of-State | 4yr Savings | SAT Avg | Accept Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick • Public | $16,120 | $34,012 | $71,568 | 1320 | 68% |
| Princeton University Princeton • Private | $59,710 | $59,710 | $0 | 1550 | 4% |
| Stevens Institute of Technology Hoboken • Private | $60,052 | $60,052 | $0 | 1440 | 42% |
Top Education Hubs in New Jersey
Higher Education in New Jersey
New Jersey offers diverse higher education opportunities ranging from world-class private universities to strong public institutions. Despite its small geographic size, the Garden State provides excellent options for students seeking quality education close to New York City and Philadelphia.
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is the state's flagship public research university. With campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden, Rutgers serves over 70,000 students across its system. Rutgers University-New Brunswick is the main campus and a member of the Big Ten, offering strong programs in business, pharmacy, engineering, and liberal arts.
New Jersey is home to Princeton University, consistently ranked among the top three universities in the nation. Princeton's undergraduate-focused education, generous financial aid (no loans), and beautiful campus make it one of the world's most prestigious institutions.
Other notable schools include Stevens Institute of Technology (engineering and technology focus in Hoboken), The College of New Jersey (known as 'New Jersey's Public Ivy'), Rowan University (fast-growing with new engineering and medical programs), and Montclair State (largest public university by enrollment). Seton Hall is the state's largest Catholic university.
For 2025-2026, Rutgers in-state tuition averages approximately $16,100—moderate for the region. Out-of-state tuition is around $34,000. New Jersey's TAG Grant program provides substantial need-based aid. The state's proximity to New York City creates significant commuter options and career opportunities for students at many institutions.
Rutgers vs TCNJ: Choosing New Jersey's Public Options
New Jersey's public higher education offers distinct choices: the comprehensive Rutgers system versus more specialized options like The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) and regional universities.
Rutgers University-New Brunswick is New Jersey's flagship—a major research university with 280+ undergraduate programs. Joining the Big Ten enhanced Rutgers' athletic profile. Rutgers excels in pharmacy (#1 nationally), business (strong accounting and supply chain), engineering, and health sciences. The large campus in central New Jersey provides substantial resources and diverse opportunities.
The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is consistently ranked among the top public regional universities in the North. TCNJ offers a smaller, more focused experience (7,500 students) with strong programs in education, business, and sciences. TCNJ's residential campus and committed faculty provide more personalized attention than Rutgers.
Rowan University has grown dramatically, adding engineering and medical schools in recent years. Located in southern New Jersey near Philadelphia, Rowan offers strong value and expanding program options. Montclair State near New York City is New Jersey's second-largest public university, serving commuter students with strong programs in the arts and education.
Tuition varies: Rutgers is highest (~$16,000 in-state), followed by TCNJ (~$14,000), with Rowan and Montclair somewhat lower. The choice often depends on desired campus experience, academic interests, and geographic preference.
| Aspect | RUTGERS | TCNJ |
|---|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50,600 students | 7,500 students |
| In-State Tuition | ~$16,100/year | ~$14,000/year |
| Top Programs | Pharmacy, Business, Engineering | Education, Business, Sciences |
| Setting | Urban/Suburban (New Brunswick) | Suburban (Ewing) |
| Acceptance Rate | ~68% | ~54% |
| Campus Size | Large Research University | Small Liberal Arts Focus |
New Jersey Financial Aid & Scholarships
New Jersey provides robust state financial aid programs through the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) that significantly reduce college costs for qualifying residents.
The Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) is New Jersey's flagship need-based program, providing up to $12,802 annually for students attending New Jersey public universities or up to $14,100 for private colleges. TAG is one of the nation's most generous state grant programs. Eligibility is determined by FAFSA, and students must demonstrate significant financial need.
The NJ STARS program covers tuition at New Jersey community colleges for students graduating in the top 15% of their high school class. NJ STARS II extends benefits for students who complete community college with a 3.25+ GPA, providing scholarships to transfer to four-year New Jersey public colleges.
The Governor's Urban Scholarship provides full tuition for students from designated urban areas who attend certain New Jersey public colleges and commit to working in those communities after graduation.
Rutgers provides substantial institutional aid including the Scarlet Scholarship program for high-achieving students and Rutgers Grants for need-based support. Princeton University famously meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with no loans—families earning under $100,000 typically pay no tuition.
To maximize aid, file FAFSA immediately after October 1 (New Jersey's deadline is April 15 for best consideration), research institutional scholarships, and consider starting at community college through NJ STARS if you qualify.
New Jersey In-State Residency Requirements
New Jersey residency for tuition purposes requires establishing domicile in New Jersey for at least 12 consecutive months before the term begins. New Jersey uses a comprehensive approach evaluating multiple factors indicating permanent residency intent.
For dependent students (under 24 and claimed on parents' taxes), residency follows parental domicile. At least one parent must have maintained New Jersey domicile for 12+ months with documentation: New Jersey driver's license, voter registration, employment, New Jersey income tax filing, property ownership or lease, and vehicle registration.
For independent students, demonstrate 12 months of New Jersey domicile with physical presence and permanent intent. Documentation includes: New Jersey driver's license, voter registration, bank accounts, employment records, utility bills, and lease agreements. Your presence in New Jersey must be for purposes other than attending college.
New Jersey's proximity to New York City means many students commute from home, maintaining clear residency status. However, students moving to New Jersey specifically for education are presumed non-residents and generally cannot establish residency while enrolled full-time.
Rutgers and other public universities determine residency independently. Each institution reviews documentation to determine domicile status. Married students may gain advantage if spouse is a New Jersey resident, but marriage alone doesn't guarantee residency.
The $18,000 annual difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at Rutgers makes residency planning important. Families relocating to New Jersey should establish domicile 12-15 months before enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rutgers in-state tuition for 2025-2026?
Rutgers University-New Brunswick in-state tuition and fees total approximately $16,120 for 2025-2026. With room and board (~$14,616), books, and expenses, total cost of attendance is approximately $33,000-$36,000 annually. New Jersey's TAG Grant can cover significant portions for qualifying families.
What is the NJ TAG Grant?
The Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) provides up to $12,802 annually for students attending New Jersey public universities based on financial need. It's one of America's most generous state grants. Students must file FAFSA, be New Jersey residents, and demonstrate need. Awards are determined automatically—no separate application needed.
How competitive is Princeton admission?
Extremely competitive. Princeton accepts approximately 4% of applicants—one of the lowest rates in America. SAT scores for admitted students are typically 1500+. Academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, extracurricular achievements, and compelling essays are essential. Princeton doesn't offer early action or legacy preferences in admission.
How does Rutgers compare to other Big Ten schools?
Since joining the Big Ten in 2014, Rutgers has increased its national profile. Academically, Rutgers ranks mid-tier among Big Ten schools—behind Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin but competitive with Purdue, Minnesota, and Indiana. Athletically, Rutgers is rebuilding. Rutgers' location near NYC provides unique career advantages.
What SAT scores do I need for Rutgers?
Rutgers-New Brunswick's middle 50% SAT range is approximately 1220-1430. A 1300+ SAT makes you competitive for most programs. For selective programs like the Honors College or Pharmacy, higher scores (1400+) improve chances. Rutgers uses holistic review but academics are primary.
What is The College of New Jersey like?
TCNJ in Ewing is known as 'New Jersey's Public Ivy'—a selective, undergraduate-focused institution with strong programs in education, business, and sciences. With 7,500 students, it offers smaller classes and more personal attention than Rutgers. Beautiful residential campus. Highly selective (~54% acceptance) for a public school.
Can I establish New Jersey residency while at Rutgers?
Very difficult if you moved to New Jersey primarily for education. Your presence is presumed temporary for educational purposes. Working full-time while taking reduced course load, or taking extensive breaks from enrollment, might eventually establish residency. Marriage to a New Jersey resident can help but doesn't guarantee reclassification.
What is NJ STARS?
NJ STARS covers full tuition at New Jersey community colleges for students graduating in the top 15% of their high school class. NJ STARS II extends benefits for community college graduates with 3.25+ GPA who transfer to New Jersey public four-year colleges. It's an excellent pathway to affordable education for qualifying students.
What is Stevens Institute of Technology?
Stevens is a private research university in Hoboken focused on engineering, science, and technology. Known for strong engineering programs, finance (quantitative focus), and computer science. Location directly across from NYC provides career access. Smaller than Rutgers (~8,000 students) with excellent job placement. Tuition is ~$60,000 but financial aid is available.
Is Rowan University a good option?
Rowan has transformed from a regional college to a comprehensive university with engineering and medical schools. Located in southern New Jersey near Philadelphia, Rowan offers strong value (~$13,500 in-state) with growing programs. Good option for students wanting smaller-school feel with increasing resources and reputation.
What are housing costs at New Jersey universities?
Room and board averages $13,000-$16,000 annually at New Jersey public universities. Off-campus housing varies dramatically by location—near NYC (Stevens, Montclair) is very expensive, while central and southern New Jersey are more affordable. Many NJ students commute from home, saving significantly.
How do Montclair State and Rutgers compare?
Montclair State (21,000 students) is New Jersey's second-largest public university, located near NYC. Known for arts, education, and business. Less selective than Rutgers with lower tuition (~$12,500). More commuter-oriented. Good for students wanting NYC access without Rutgers' size or cost.
What is Princeton's financial aid like?
Princeton meets 100% of demonstrated financial need with NO loans—all aid is grants and work-study. Families earning under $100,000 typically pay no tuition. The average aid package exceeds $60,000. Princeton's approach makes it affordable for admitted students across income levels. File FAFSA and CSS Profile.
How do I transfer from a New Jersey community college?
New Jersey has good transfer pathways. Complete 60 credits at a county college, and you're guaranteed admission (though not to specific majors) at most state schools. NJ Transfer agreements specify course equivalencies. For competitive Rutgers programs, maintain high GPA. NJ STARS II provides scholarships for qualifying transfers.
Are there good pharmacy programs in New Jersey?
Yes. Rutgers Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy is ranked #1 nationally. It offers a direct-entry 6-year PharmD program from high school. Other pharmacy options include Fairleigh Dickinson and Saint Peter's. Given pharmacy's current job market challenges, research career outlook before committing.
Official Data Sources & Authority
All tuition and enrollment data for New Jersey is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Education's Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). We provide this data to help students make informed decisions based on official government records.
- Rutgers University. "Tuition and Fees."Official Source
- New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority. "Tuition Aid Grant."Official Source
- The College of New Jersey. "Tuition and Costs."Official Source
- Princeton University. "Undergraduate Financial Aid."Official Source
- Stevens Institute of Technology. "Financial Aid."Official Source
- U.S. Department of Education. "College Navigator."nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
- Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).studentaid.gov
Calculate Your Savings
Use our tuition calculator to estimate your total college costs and potential savings with in-state residency.