In the downfall of the economy beginning in 2008, returning to school did not seem like an option for many residents. However, in the state of New Jersey education is a top priority. The government has put forth its Tuition Benefit for Unemployed Persons and many residents have taken advantage of the program.
The potential student must be collecting unemployment at the time. Only a public university (such as The College of New Jersey), college or community college applies to this benefit. Private schools are not an option.
Applying for the Tuition Waiver
Here are the steps that residents must follow:
- Visit the Department of Labor, Division of Workforce New Jersey and show proof of unemployment from the former employer in order to obtain certification.
- Submit an Unemployed Person Job Training Form to the school's Office of Financial Aid. It should be signed and dated by the Department of Labor and submitted to the school for each semester the student applies for the benefit. It is best to check with the individual school concerning deadlines and procedures for this form.
- Submit a FAFSA application. This can be done electronically, signed and dated with an electronic signature to save time and ensure the fastest processing. The student must file a FAFSA once an academic year. If s/he is awarded federal or state grants that do not cover the full tuition, the waiver will make up the difference. Be aware that various fees such as library fines, parking fees and room and board are not covered. Stay on top of such expenses by frequently checking the school's online system from the convenience of home.
After Receiving the Tuition Benefit
Students will be notified via snail mail to find out if their application is accepted. Once their financial assistance is administered, they should note these terms of eligibility:
- Maintain a C-average or higher or the waiver will be revoked.
- Non-credit courses are not applicable. Students must take courses for credit.
- Register for classes beginning on the first day of the term. It is not possible to register earlier.
- After registering, bring the certification and verification for the tuition waiver to the Bursar. This must be done immediately in order to clear the tuition bill.
As of August 2009, the unemployment rate in New Jersey spiked to 9.7 percent to match the national average (source: nj.com). Considering this dire number, now is a good time to obtain a higher education by learning a new career or expanding knowledge of an existing one. More education never hurts.
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