The New Jersey School Counts County College Scholarship Program Act establishes a scholarship program aimed at supporting high school graduates who demonstrate strong attendance, punctuality, and academic performance. Under this program, students who graduate from participating public or nonpublic high schools and receive a School Counts certificate will be eligible for a two-year scholarship to a county college, covering up to $2,000 per year, with a maximum of $4,000 over the two years. To qualify, students must meet specific criteria, including maintaining a 95% attendance rate, achieving a C grade point average, and completing more than the minimum required credits for graduation. The program is designed to encourage students to pursue higher education and is modeled after an initiative by the Business Coalition for Educational Excellence.

The scholarship program will be financed through a combination of state appropriations, county college funds, and private contributions, with provisions for matching state funds based on private donations raised by the colleges. Initially, four county colleges will be selected to participate, with additional colleges added in subsequent years until all are involved. The program also includes stipulations regarding academic progress and repayment of scholarships in cases of dismissal or withdrawal for non-medical reasons. The act is set to take effect for the 2024-2025 academic year, allowing the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority to begin administrative preparations immediately.