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New Jersey Families Urged to File FAFSA to Maximize College Aid Opportunities

New Jersey Families Urged to File FAFSA to Maximize College Aid Opportunities

In New Jersey, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has become a graduation requirement unless parents opt out. Despite some families assuming they earn too much to qualify, filing the FAFSA is crucial as it is used not only for need-based aid but also for merit scholarships and some private scholarships. The application is free, and there is no downside to applying. Families are advised to use each school's net price calculator to estimate actual costs after scholarships and grants, which can sometimes make private colleges more affordable than in-state public universities. Meeting deadlines is essential, as some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, college costs are often negotiable, and students can appeal their aid package if their financial situation changes.
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Federal Student Loan Rates to Increase, Prompting Consideration of Alternatives

Federal Student Loan Rates to Increase, Prompting Consideration of Alternatives

Federal Student Loan Rates to Increase, Prompting Consideration of Alternatives
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Federal Student Loan Rates to Increase, Impacting Borrowing Costs for Families

Federal Student Loan Rates to Increase, Impacting Borrowing Costs for Families

Federal student loan rates are set to rise for the 2026-27 academic year, driven by elevated inflation and higher Treasury yields. The rates are determined by the Treasury's May auction of 10-year notes, which recently yielded 4.47%, up from 4.34% in 2025. This increase affects the fixed rates on federal student loans, with undergraduate loans rising to 6.52%, graduate loans to 8.07%, and Parent PLUS loans to 9.07%. Despite the increase, experts like Stacey MacPhetres from Bright Horizons suggest that federal loans remain a favorable option for undergraduates due to their fixed rates and federal protections. However, for graduate and Parent PLUS loans, borrowers are advised to explore private loan options, which may offer competitive rates.
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Jacksonville State and Cumberland School of Law Introduce Accelerated 3+3 Degree Program for Aspiring Lawyers

Jacksonville State and Cumberland School of Law Introduce Accelerated 3+3 Degree Program for Aspiring Lawyers

Jacksonville State University has partnered with Samford University's Cumberland School of Law to launch an accelerated 3+3 degree program. This initiative allows qualified students to earn both an undergraduate degree and a law degree in six years, rather than the traditional seven. The program enables students to begin law school during their senior year of undergraduate studies, with credits from the first year of law school counting towards their bachelor's degree. This approach aims to reduce the time and cost associated with obtaining a legal education. The partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony at Jacksonville State University, where leaders from both institutions emphasized the program's potential to make legal education more affordable and accessible.
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New Jersey governor links rising tension around immigrant detention center to out-of-state troublemakers

New Jersey governor links rising tension around immigrant detention center to out-of-state troublemakers

By Karen Freifeld NEWARK, New Jersey, May 30 (Reuters) - New Jersey state police who deployed near an immigrant detention center found that out-of-state agitators escalated tensions during protests, Governor Mikie Sherrill said on Saturday. 
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Miles for Matheny Fundraiser Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Special Needs Hospital

Miles for Matheny Fundraiser Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Special Needs Hospital

The Miles for Matheny fundraiser took place in Peapack and Gladstone, New Jersey, celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Matheny Medical and Educational Center, a special needs hospital. CBS News New York's John Elliott covered the event, which brought together community members to support the hospital's mission of providing care and education for individuals with special needs. The fundraiser included various activities aimed at raising awareness and funds to support the hospital's programs and services. The event highlighted the hospital's long-standing commitment to improving the lives of its patients and their families.
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New Jersey state police assert control outside migrant detention center

New Jersey state police assert control outside migrant detention center

By Steve Gorman and Maria Tsvetkova May 29 (Reuters) - New Jersey's governor on Friday ordered state police to assume control outside a migrant detention center in Newark that has become a weeklong flashpoint for clashes between protesters and federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
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World Cup's Impact on New York Hotel Demand Raises Economic Questions

World Cup's Impact on New York Hotel Demand Raises Economic Questions

World Cup's Impact on New York Hotel Demand Raises Economic Questions
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Protests at Newark ICE Detention Center Persist Amid Dueling Rallies

Protests at Newark ICE Detention Center Persist Amid Dueling Rallies

Protests have been ongoing for over a week outside the ICE detention center in Newark, New Jersey. The demonstrations have drawn attention due to the presence of dueling rallies, with groups both supporting and opposing the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protests are centered around Delaney Hall, a facility used to detain individuals on immigration-related charges. The rallies have highlighted the contentious nature of immigration enforcement policies in the United States, with participants voicing strong opinions on both sides of the issue. The protests have been covered by local media, including CBS News New York, which reported on the events and the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the region.
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New Jersey Candidate Adam Hamawy Condemns Antisemitism Amid Campaign Scrutiny

New Jersey Candidate Adam Hamawy Condemns Antisemitism Amid Campaign Scrutiny

Adam Hamawy, a candidate in the Democratic primary for New Jersey's 12th congressional district, has publicly condemned antisemitism and accusations of dual loyalty. As a Muslim and a critic of Israel, Hamawy has faced scrutiny over his past connections and his stance on Israel. He has been vocal about the rise of antisemitism, expressing his concerns in a statement to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA). Hamawy's campaign has gained momentum following support from the pro-Palestinian super PAC, American Priorities, which has invested significantly in his campaign. Despite his controversial views on Israel, including opposition to military aid and the Iron Dome defense system, Hamawy emphasizes shared values with Jewish constituents and highlights the contributions of Jewish staff and supporters to his campaign.
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Federal student loan rates to rise, making other options better for some

Federal student loan rates to rise, making other options better for some

Federal student loan rates are rising for the 2026-27 school year. Experts suggest comparing private loan options.
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Paterson, N.J. Hosts World Cup Festivities to Celebrate Global Event

Paterson, N.J. Hosts World Cup Festivities to Celebrate Global Event

Paterson, New Jersey, is gearing up to host a series of events in celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The city plans to organize watch parties and cultural events that will bring together soccer enthusiasts, music, and food. These festivities aim to create a vibrant atmosphere across the city, allowing residents and visitors to engage with the global sporting event. The initiative is part of Paterson's efforts to foster community spirit and cultural exchange through sports.