The Senate Education Committee approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Robert Singer (R-Monmouth, Ocean) on June 1 that would make permanent the requirement for high school students to submit a financial aid application as a prerequisite for graduation.
In 2024, legislation introduced by Singer was signed into law mandating that the classes of 2024, 2025, and 2026 complete a financial aid application before receiving a diploma from public or charter schools. The new bill, S-3245, extends this requirement to all future graduating classes with certain exemptions.
“For high school students and their families, the cost of college can feel overwhelming,” said Senator Singer. “Requiring students to complete financial aid applications helps ensure they have access to every available scholarship and grant they may qualify for, reducing out-of-pocket expenses and helping prevent decades of debt payments after graduation.”
Singer’s bill is part of ongoing legislative efforts aimed at increasing college access and affordability for New Jersey students. The full text of the bill is available online.
Senator Anthony M. Bucco serves in the New Jersey Legislature as senator for the 25th Legislative District and holds the position of Senate Republican Leader, while chairing the Senate Judiciary Committee and serving on both the Senate Judiciary Committee and Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, according to the official website.
