Will my information remain confidential?

The New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application is a confidential application used solely by our State agency - the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) - to determine if students meet the eligibility requirements to receive State financial aid. The data collected is not used for federal financial aid purposes. Information shared with HESAA via this application is protected by Federal Privacy Protections, including 16 C.F.R. Part 313, and only used by HESAA, partner colleges/universities, and other State agencies to administer State grants and scholarships. HESAA will continue to do everything within its authority and jurisdiction to protect the ongoing confidentiality of this information and will not disclose it absent a valid subpoena or court order.

Why should I complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application?

If you are eligible for this application, completing it will allow HESAA to determine your eligibility for any state financial aid, such as grants and scholarships. New Jersey colleges and universities may also use this data to award their own aid. This helps more students afford a postsecondary education who are not eligible for federal aid.

What will I need to start my New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application?

• 2023 Tax Returns for Parents and Students for the 2025-26 college academic year
• Other Verifiable Income Information
• Student’s Social Security Card (Only if you have one)
• Student’s State Issued Driver’s License (Only if you have one)

Do my parent(s) or I need a Social Security number to apply?

If you and/or your parent(s) do have a Social Security number or Individual Identification Number (ITIN), please enter that information on the application. However, if you and/or your parent(s) do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, that information is optional.

Students without a Social Security number and/or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) will be assigned a HESAA Grants ID. Parents without a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) should follow the instructions on the application. If families do not have these numbers, they will need to provide some other proof of verifiable income on the application.

What is the State deadline to complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application?

For all State financial aid deadlines, click here.

What are the next steps after I complete this application?

Monitor the customized ‘To Do List’ in your NJFAMS account to see if there is any additional documentation you might owe HESAA. Otherwise, keep an eye on your account for notification from HESAA about your state aid eligibility .