This bill revises the eligibility criteria for Educational Opportunity Fund grants and campus-based Educational Opportunity Fund programs in New Jersey. It specifically allows students who have previously earned an associate degree or college credits, or who have participated in or completed a dual degree program while in high school, to qualify for an opportunity grant, provided they meet the existing eligibility requirements. This new provision is inserted into Section 8 of P.L.1968, c.142, ensuring that these students are not excluded from receiving financial assistance.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new section that explicitly states that students who meet the aforementioned criteria and are otherwise eligible cannot be barred from participating in campus-based Educational Opportunity Fund programs at any institution of higher education. The changes aim to broaden access to educational funding and support for students with prior academic achievements, thereby enhancing their opportunities for further education. The act is set to take effect immediately and will apply to the first full academic year following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:71-35