Dependency and Residency
A dependent student, as defined in N.J.A.C. 9A:9-2.6, is presumed to be a resident of the State in which his or her parent(s) reside. To be eligible to participate in State grant and scholarship programs, dependent students whose parent(s) do not reside in New Jersey must establish that they are a New Jersey resident notwithstanding the residency of their parent(s).
Establishing New Jersey Residency Notwithstanding Parents’ Residency
Dependent students who have been a resident of New Jersey for at least 12 months prior to the start of college and are not residing in New Jersey for the sole purpose of receiving an education, can request a review of HESAA’s preliminary decision of non-eligibility by providing HESAA with documentation including but not limited to:
- Proof of graduation from a NJ high school or a NJ GED (currently enrolled New Jersey high school seniors can submit a high school transcript, New Jersey Dreamers also need to show they attended a New Jersey high school for three years);
- A copy of the parent’s or student’s most recent New Jersey resident income tax return as applicable;
- A copy of the parent’s or student’s New Jersey driver license or state identification as applicable;
- Evidence of the parent’s or student’s home ownership or a long-term lease in NJ as applicable; and
- Such additional documentation as may be deemed necessary by HESAA upon specific review of the student’s application.
The New Jersey residency requirements apply to all students: citizens, eligible non-citizens and New Jersey Dreamers
