EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FUND

For over 50 years, EOF has helped students achieve a college degree. Get your college degree with a program that feels like family.

What is EOF?

The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) is a state-funded program that provides academic support, personal development, and leadership skills.

Our students develop the skills and abilities necessary to earn a degree and achieve career success despite academic or financial obstacles.

Enjoy a wide range of services

Summer Institute

First-time college students attend our summer program where they participate in course work, cultural activities, and a student success seminar.

Individual and Group Tutoring

We provide in-person and remote tutoring for all subjects with a special emphasis on preparing students to pass the College Writing Exam.

Personalized Academic Advising

Students meet with their advisor twice a month to discuss academic progress and any personal issues that may be affecting their educational success.

Student Success Workshops

We offer workshops on study skills, time management, test-taking tips, effective communication, and more!

Transfer and Career Services

Our counselors help students achieve their career goals. We arrange transfer fairs, college tours, and encourage students to participate in internships.

Leadership Development

Students are encouraged to become actively involved in leadership and community service opportunities on and off campus.

2024-2025 EOF Income Eligibility Scale
with Asset Cap Calculation

HOUSEHOLD SIZE (INCLUDING APPLICANT)	GROSS INCOME (NOT TO EXCEED)	ASSET CAP CALCULATION (NOT TO EXCEED)
Number of people living at home that you or your parents are financially responsible for.	Money you or your parents earn within a calendar year, before taxes. Usually from employment.	Additional items that hold value like businesses, stocks, and investment properties.
1	$29,160	$5,832
2	$39,440	$7,888
3	$49,720	$9,944
4	$60,000	$12,000
5	$70,280	$14,056
6	$80,560	$16,112
7	$90,840	$18,168
8	$101,120	$20,224
*For each additional member of the household add	$10,280	$2,056

Am I Eligible?

In order to qualify, students must meet the financial criteria established by the State of New Jersey. However, eligibility is not guaranteed even if you meet the income criteria. Priority is given to first-time, full-time freshmen and to EOF transfer students in good standing from another EOF Program.

Students who are accepted will be required to participate in academic enrichment services offered.

You are eligible to apply if:

• You will graduate from high school or receive a GED by the time you register at PCCC.
• You are a NJ resident for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the first semester of PCCC enrollment.
• You will be a full-time student (12 credits or more).
• You can demonstrate an educationally and economically disadvantaged background.

How to Apply

Students will not be considered for admission as an EOF student until all required information has been received, all proper forms filed, and an interview is conducted. Notification of status will be sent by the EOF Admissions Counselor.

• Apply Online to PCCC
• Complete the FAFSA
  • (If you don’t qualify, complete the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application)
  • Complete EOF Application
    • You’ll need to upload supporting documentation
    • Once your EOF application is complete, we will contact you to schedule this meeting

    EOF is a foundation for growth; providing me with financial and academic support, leadership opportunities, and a network of impactful individuals.

    Isaac Belgrave, EOF, Class of ‘21

    

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I have to complete an application to PCCC as well as to EOF?

    Yes, students must first submit an application for admission to the College. To be eligible for EOF, you must first be accepted for admission to PCCC and confirm that you plan to enroll as a full-time student and to pursue an undergraduate degree or certificate at PCCC

    Do I have to fill out the FAFSA every year?

    Yes, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for every academic year they seek financial aid.

    NJ Dreamers should begin the financial aid process by completing the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.

    Does withdrawing affect my EOF funding?

    Withdrawals can potentially affect a student’s current and future financial aid. Speak with your EOF Counselor before withdrawing from a class.

    Will I still be in the EOF program when I transfer

    EOF students should submit an EOF Transfer Request Form to our office. This allows us to notify the transfer school that you are a current EOF student and whether you have or have not received funding. In addition, transferring EOF students should contact the EOF Department of their transfer school.

    If I lose my EOF grant, am I still part of the EOF program?

    Loss of the EOF grant does not remove you from the EOF program, if you have previously received EOF funding. However, it may affect your ability to be eligible for certain financial resources. Please speak with your EOF Counselor for more information.

    Do I lose funding if I stop attending PCCC?

    If you stop attending for a semester or more, you are removed from the EOF roster and your funding is removed. If you return, you must notify the EOF office of your status. If you are still eligible for funding, you may then be added back to the EOF roster.

    What’s my responsibility as an EOF Student?

    Accepted applicants will sign and adhere to an EOF Student Contract agreeing to participate in the guidelines of the EOF grant. The contract is reviewed during the eligibility interview. EOF student responsibilities include, but are not limited to, monthly meetings with your EOF Counselor, attendance at workshops, tutoring as advised by your EOF Counselor or by staff in the EOF Academic Resource Center (ARC), and other EOF activities.