Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) | Ocean County College
Source: https://www.ocean.edu/student-resources/educational-opportunity-fund-eof
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:35
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) | Ocean County College
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
What is EOF?
New Students
Current Students
Find Your Advisor
Honor Societies & Awards
Staff
We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester.
2026-2027 Application
What is EOF?
The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) is a state-funded program designed to provide academic and financial support to students economically and educationally affected by a history of poverty. EOF supports students who are capable and motivated, but who may lack adequate preparation for college, and/or may be the first in their families to attend college.
Our Mission
To provide access to higher education
Students are evaluated for admission based on state financial criteria, including a history of poverty, academic readiness, potential, and motivation. An interview is required.
We recommend students register full-time (12 credits or more), as limited part-time opportunities exist. Applicants must also complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually.
What the Educational Opportunity Fund Offers
Continued eligibility at NJ senior institutions
A community of like learners
Comprehensive service and support
Private academic coaching
Academic advising
A financial grant
You May Be Eligible
Are you the first in your family to attend college?
Do you or your family have a low annual income?
Do you or your family participate in a government assistance program?
Will you register for 12 or more credits?
Are you eligible for PELL, TAG, or CCOG grants?
All are welcome to apply, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. EOF enrollment is determined by state funding, apply early.
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Eligibility
Funding Priorities
Eligibility Criteria
This is a summary of identified eligibility for EOF. Additionally, applicants must have income that falls within
the EOF Income Eligibility Scale
.
History of Poverty
Long-term, documented economic hardship, no accumulation of assets, inability to provide more than the basic needs, demonstrated by one of the following:
Having successfully completed a NJ GEAR UP state project or NJ College Bound grant program
Having attended or graduated from a school district where 40% or more of the enrolled students meet the eligibility criteria for the free/reduced-price lunch program
Having resided in a municipality that is a high-distress/labor surplus area, or is considered an eligible urban aid municipality
Having resided in an area that historically has been populated by low-income families; such an area, commonly called a “pocket of poverty,” has characteristics of a high-distress/labor surplus area, even if the municipality is not formally so identified
Being a first-generation college student who is, or whose family is, eligible for government assistance and/or educational programs targeted toward low-income and disadvantaged populations (TRIO programs, free and reduced breakfast/lunch programs, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly food stamps)
Undergraduate Eligibility
Must demonstrate an educationally and economically disadvantaged background
Must be a New Jersey resident 12 consecutive months prior to receiving the award
Must apply and be accepted to a participating New Jersey college or university
Must meet the academic criteria as set by the institution of choice
Must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.
Gross income and assets must fall within the criteria shown:
Household Size
Gross Income 2025-2026
Asset Cap 2025-2026
Gross Income 2026-2027
Asset Cap 2026-2027
1
$30,120
$6,024
$31,300
$6,260
2
$40,880
$8,176
$42,300
$8,460
3
$51,640
$10,328
$53,300
$10,660
4
$62,400
$12,480
$64,300
$12,860
5
$73,160
$14,632
$75,300
$15,060
6
$83,920
$16,784
$86,300
$17,260
7
$94,680
$18,936
$97,300
$19,460
8
$105,440
$21,088
$108,300
$21,660
For households larger than 8
GROSS INCOME: Add $10,
760 for each additional family member
ASSETS: Add $2,
152 for each additional family member
GROSS INCOME: Add $11,000
for each additional family member
ASSETS: Add $2,200
for each additional family member
This table is a guide to determine program eligibility based on household size and income. More information on the eligibility scale can be found using this link:
https://www.nj.gov/highereducation/EOF/EOF_Eligibility.shtml
Funding Priorities
Anyone who believes that they may be eligible for EOF is welcome to apply. Our service priorities are as follows:
Renewal students
who were funded during the previous academic year.
First-time, full-time freshmen
Students
that have
earned 24 or more college credits while in high school
or who participated in a dual enrollment program and have earned an associate’s degree as part of their high school graduation requirements and have no prior history of EOF funding support.
EOF transfer students
who received an EOF student grant at their previous institution, in the preceding academic year.
Renewal students readmitted
or returning who did not receive funding the prior academic year.
Eligible students who do not fall into any of the other four categories listed above.
Waiting List
– A waiting list will be established if funds are exhausted before the last date of the grant-awarding period. The waiting list will be in effect until the last day of the spring award cycle.
FAQ
Expand All
Collapse All
What is EOF?
EOF is an academic support program that makes access to college possible with funding and guidance to students who have grown up in poverty.
Back to Top
Am I Eligible for EOF?
If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions, you
may be eligible
:
Are you eligible for PELL, TAG, or CCOG grants?
Are you the first in your family to attend college?
Do you or your family have a low annual income?
Do you or your family participate in a government assistance program?
Will you register for 12 or more credits?
Back to Top
Can I Get Financial Aid and EOF?
YES.
EOF will be listed among other financial aid awards. Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to continue eligibility for federal and state aid like EOF.
Back to Top
How Are Students Selected for EOF?
We seek motivated students with potential, interest, and the ability to partner with an advisor. The interview is important in making admission decisions. It offers EOF an opportunity to get to know applicants and determine if EOF is a good match, and allows applicants to be informed and make an active choice in accepting an offer.
We follow state regulations documenting financial need and review each application with attention, and care. EOF is not an entitlement program – eligibility does not always result in acceptance or an award.
Back to Top
Why Do I Have to Interview?
The interview helps us to review your eligibility. It is a chance for us to meet one-on-one and begin relationship-building. Working together with an EOF advisor is the cornerstone of the work we do.
The interview is from 45 to 60 minutes long. We ask a series of questions. All you need to do is be yourself. We suggest you use the interview to determine if EOF is a good match for you. Does our program support your goals and objectives? Can EOF help you earn your degree? Ask us how we can help.
Back to Top
Do I Have to Apply Every Year for EOF?
NO
. As long as you remain enrolled from semester to semester, you do not have to reapply. However, you must complete a FAFSA each year to maintain EOF eligibility.
Back to Top
I Am Going to Another College After OCC, Can I Still Receive EOF?
If eligible at OCC, you may be EOF eligible at a senior institution. We recommend you check with that institution regarding their admission process. Additionally, you may need to complete an EOF application, interview, etc. This link identifies participating institutions and contact information:
https://www.nj.gov/highereducation/EOF/EOF_Eligibility.shtml
Senior institutions will require a Transfer Form. That form identifies you as an EOF recipient and places you higher on the priority funding framework. Once you have completed our exiting process, we will send a transfer form to that institution with a copy to you.
Back to Top
Do I Have to Repay My EOF Grant?
No. Grants are a form of free monies and do not require repayment.
Back to Top
What EOF Meetings Do I Have to Attend?
EOF is a vibrant community. We require academic coaching, meeting with your advisor, and being engaged on campus. We want you to grow as a scholar and as an individual. We want you to embrace the concept of lifelong learning.
A course shell in Ocean Connect lists all program requirements. Upon acknowledgment of acceptance, permission to access the course is provided.
Back to Top
EOF Newsletter – A Year In Review
Enjoy our EOF newsletter that celebrates who we are, commending our accomplishments and successes.
Click the button to view a PDF of the 2024-2025 EOF Newsletter.
View Our Newsletter
New Students
We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester.
WHAT NEXT?
FIRST
, complete the
2026-27
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using the link:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
.
SECOND
, Complete the EOF@OCEAN application for academic year 2026-2027.
2026-2027 EOF@OCEAN Application
Additional Resources
Expand All
Collapse All
NJ Tuition Equity Act – Are you a Dreamer?
NJ DREAM Act allows undocumented college students to pay in-state tuition rates. To request exemption from Nonresident Tuition and Fees, charged to non-New Jersey residents, students must complete, sign and submit the
Application for In-State Tuition
form via mail or bring the completed form with your high school transcript to
Registration and Records, Ocean County College, College Drive, PO Box 2001, Toms River, NJ 08754-2001
. Please refer to the links below for additional information and forms.
Application for In-State Tuition PDF
Dreamer Affidavit
Alternative Financial Aid for NJ Dreamers
Dreamer FAQs PDF
Back to Top
Instructions for Ordering a Tax Transcript
Documentation of ALL household income both taxable and non-taxable is required. Only tax transcripts from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are accepted. Whether you worked and filed, worked and did not file, or were not employed, official documentation from IRS is required.
ID.me
is a way you can register and identify yourself once and then access Veterans Association, Social Security,
and IRS documents
. Use the link to access ID.me:
https://www.id.me/government
.
ID.me
is a digital identification platform. A one-time identification allows users to create a profile, account to access government information.
It provides a
TWO-FACTOR IDENTIFICATION (2FA)
Protects user identification
Authenticates you as the owner of the account
By telephone or by text
Verify identity
Driver’s License
Passport
Questions
Consent to share information with partner agencies
To create an ID.ME ACCOUNT
Email
Create password
Accept Terms of Service
Subscribe to Offers (if desired) OR Sign-in
Facebook
Google
DS Logon
Health Vet
LinkedIn
Once the account is created you will be able to retrieve from these entities, the following:
FROM IRS
Apply for ITIN
Refund Status
Tax Records
Back to Top
Forms – Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
Re-Admit Addendum: For Former EOF Students who wish to reapply
Declaration of Non-Probate Paid Child Support Form
Sole Provider, Not/Never Married Statement PDF – Documenting no spousal income
Back to Top
Current EOF Students
Throughout your time with EOF, you will receive individualized guidance and support, maximizing opportunities for success and learning.
EOF requires your presence and engagement. Review the EOF@OCEAN program requirements below.
Requirements
Complete your FAFSA annually
Utilize academic coaching regularly
Meet with your EOF advisor monthly
Complete one Lifelong Learning workshop per semester
Participate in the annual EOF Summer Program
New Students: Complete a Study Skills Assessment and review
Returning Students with 24+ Credits: Complete a Graduation Audit advising session
Check EOF Canvas often – stay in the know
Participate in optional community and leadership events
Canvas Description
The EOF Canvas Shell looks just like a traditional course shell. ALL the requirements and activities you should be engaged in during your time at EOF are organized by credit hour and semester to guide you toward your Associate’s Degree.
In Announcements, we share the latest news about EOF and program happenings. You can reach out to academic coaches, advisors, and peers. You can upload documents and find any EOF document needed. Use this as another tool for your success – stay connected!
Use the link below to access Canvas:
Canvas log-in
Find Your Advisor
Laura Rickards
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2400
Email
:
lrickards@ocean.edu
Michele Gioxaris
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2340
Email
:
mgioxaris@ocean.edu
Jordan Mabe
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2981
Email
:
jmabe@ocean.edu
Jennifer Olah
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2950
Email
:
jolah@ocean.edu
What’s Happening at EOF Ocean?
EOF Scholar
Rivkie Kruman
founded a new club at Ocean: The Neuro Diversity Alliance
On October 16, 2025, EOF@OCEAN hosted our annual Fall Open House where we welcomed back our students with autumn themed treats, cider, and crafts. Six of our Alumni Scholars stopped by the event!
On July 30, 2025 EOF@OCEAN hosted our annual summer orientation program for new students. The day was filled with workshops and activities to help prepare our incoming scholars for their time at OCC.
EOF Director,
Laura Rickards
, and EOF Assistant Director,
Michele Gioxaris
, attended the EOF Directors Summit in Princeton, New Jersey.
EOF staff members
Michele Gioxaris
,
Jordan Mabe
, and
Jennifer Olah
attended the EOFPANJ Counselor Training Institute (CTI) at Monmouth University.
EOF Graduate
Elizabeth Macchioni
was selected as the 2025 Student Commencement Speaker.
New Student Summer Program: July 30, 2025
Graduates & Awards
EOF Graduates at the 2025 EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards Ceremony at Rutgers University
EOF Graduates at the 2025 EOF@OCEAN Graduate Awarding of the Medallion Ceremony
EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards
Each year graduating EOF students are recognized by the EOF Board of Directors and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.
To students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement during their college careers.
Expand All
Collapse All
FY2025 EOF State Achievement Awards
Student Name
GPA & Honors / Distinctions
Alexis Bajada
3.618 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Albert Burd
3.387 – Academic Achievement
Elisabeth Burns
3.733 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Wilson Castillo Alvarez
3.523 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Caitlin Cortes
4.0 – Distinguished Scholar Award
Dante Fernandes
3.255 – Academic Achievement
Viena Fuentes
3.681 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Billy Garces
2.304 – Outstanding Achievement
Khadira Johnson
3.21- Academic Achievement
Diana Lopez
3.373 – Academic Achievement
Elizabeth Macchioni
3.886 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Itzel Mateos
3.589 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Marco Ruiz
3.547 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Shana-Kay Smith
4.0 – Distinguished Scholar Award
Bianca VanBerkle
3.635 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Kenya Warren
3.683 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Arianna Young
3.383 – Academic Achievement
Maryam Zaman
3.929 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Areeba Zulkarnain
3.957 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
This table lists the graduating EOF scholars from the class of 2025 who earned GPAs that qualified for the EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards along with their GPA and award distinction.
Back to Top
EOF@Ocean Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
Alexis Bajada
Albert Burd
Elisabeth Burns
Jessica Campos
Wilson Castillo Alvarez
Caitlin Cortes
Erin Elizabeth
Dante Fernandes
Viena Fuentes
Billy Garces
Khadira Johnson
Diana Lopez
Elizabeth Macchioni
Mariah Macias
Itzel Mateos
Marco Ruiz
Bianca VanBerkle
Kenya Warren
Maryam Zaman
Areeba Zulkarnain
This table lists the names of all EOF Scholars in the graduating class of 2025.
Back to Top
Congratulations to the EOF@OCEAN Class of 2025!
Alumni
Educational Opportunity Fund Statewide Alumni Association (EOFSAA):
http://www.eofsaa.org/
Educational Opportunity Fund Professional Association of New Jersey (EOFPANJ):
https://eofpanewjersey.org/eof-students-alumni/
Staff
Laura F. Rickards, Director
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2400
Michele Gioxaris, Assistant Director
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2340
Jordan Mabe, Recruiter / Advisor
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2981
Jennifer Olah, Office Coordinator
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2950
Academic Coaches
Rochelle Blum, Academic Advisor
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Christine Cassidy, Academic Coach
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Jonas Weissbrod, Academic Coach
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Contact the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
EOF Office Information
Location:
Library Building 3, 1st Floor, Room 124
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Office Contact Information
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
1 College Drive, P.O. Box 2001
Toms River, NJ 08754
Phone:
732-255-0311
Email:
eof@ocean.edu
Helpful Links
EOF Program Income Eligibility Scale
EOF Program Description
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Ocean County College Financial Aid Office
Community College Opportunity Grant
HESAA – Higher Education Student Assistance Authority/NJFAMS
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
What is EOF?
New Students
Current Students
Find Your Advisor
Honor Societies & Awards
Staff
We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester.
2026-2027 Application
What is EOF?
The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) is a state-funded program designed to provide academic and financial support to students economically and educationally affected by a history of poverty. EOF supports students who are capable and motivated, but who may lack adequate preparation for college, and/or may be the first in their families to attend college.
Our Mission
To provide access to higher education
Students are evaluated for admission based on state financial criteria, including a history of poverty, academic readiness, potential, and motivation. An interview is required.
We recommend students register full-time (12 credits or more), as limited part-time opportunities exist. Applicants must also complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually.
What the Educational Opportunity Fund Offers
Continued eligibility at NJ senior institutions
A community of like learners
Comprehensive service and support
Private academic coaching
Academic advising
A financial grant
You May Be Eligible
Are you the first in your family to attend college?
Do you or your family have a low annual income?
Do you or your family participate in a government assistance program?
Will you register for 12 or more credits?
Are you eligible for PELL, TAG, or CCOG grants?
All are welcome to apply, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. EOF enrollment is determined by state funding, apply early.
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Eligibility
Funding Priorities
Eligibility Criteria
This is a summary of identified eligibility for EOF. Additionally, applicants must have income that falls within
the EOF Income Eligibility Scale
.
History of Poverty
Long-term, documented economic hardship, no accumulation of assets, inability to provide more than the basic needs, demonstrated by one of the following:
Having successfully completed a NJ GEAR UP state project or NJ College Bound grant program
Having attended or graduated from a school district where 40% or more of the enrolled students meet the eligibility criteria for the free/reduced-price lunch program
Having resided in a municipality that is a high-distress/labor surplus area, or is considered an eligible urban aid municipality
Having resided in an area that historically has been populated by low-income families; such an area, commonly called a “pocket of poverty,” has characteristics of a high-distress/labor surplus area, even if the municipality is not formally so identified
Being a first-generation college student who is, or whose family is, eligible for government assistance and/or educational programs targeted toward low-income and disadvantaged populations (TRIO programs, free and reduced breakfast/lunch programs, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly food stamps)
Undergraduate Eligibility
Must demonstrate an educationally and economically disadvantaged background
Must be a New Jersey resident 12 consecutive months prior to receiving the award
Must apply and be accepted to a participating New Jersey college or university
Must meet the academic criteria as set by the institution of choice
Must file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the New Jersey Alternative Financial Aid Application.
Gross income and assets must fall within the criteria shown:
Household Size
Gross Income 2025-2026
Asset Cap 2025-2026
Gross Income 2026-2027
Asset Cap 2026-2027
1
$30,120
$6,024
$31,300
$6,260
2
$40,880
$8,176
$42,300
$8,460
3
$51,640
$10,328
$53,300
$10,660
4
$62,400
$12,480
$64,300
$12,860
5
$73,160
$14,632
$75,300
$15,060
6
$83,920
$16,784
$86,300
$17,260
7
$94,680
$18,936
$97,300
$19,460
8
$105,440
$21,088
$108,300
$21,660
For households larger than 8
GROSS INCOME: Add $10,
760 for each additional family member
ASSETS: Add $2,
152 for each additional family member
GROSS INCOME: Add $11,000
for each additional family member
ASSETS: Add $2,200
for each additional family member
This table is a guide to determine program eligibility based on household size and income. More information on the eligibility scale can be found using this link:
https://www.nj.gov/highereducation/EOF/EOF_Eligibility.shtml
Funding Priorities
Anyone who believes that they may be eligible for EOF is welcome to apply. Our service priorities are as follows:
Renewal students
who were funded during the previous academic year.
First-time, full-time freshmen
Students
that have
earned 24 or more college credits while in high school
or who participated in a dual enrollment program and have earned an associate’s degree as part of their high school graduation requirements and have no prior history of EOF funding support.
EOF transfer students
who received an EOF student grant at their previous institution, in the preceding academic year.
Renewal students readmitted
or returning who did not receive funding the prior academic year.
Eligible students who do not fall into any of the other four categories listed above.
Waiting List
– A waiting list will be established if funds are exhausted before the last date of the grant-awarding period. The waiting list will be in effect until the last day of the spring award cycle.
FAQ
Expand All
Collapse All
What is EOF?
EOF is an academic support program that makes access to college possible with funding and guidance to students who have grown up in poverty.
Back to Top
Am I Eligible for EOF?
If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions, you
may be eligible
:
Are you eligible for PELL, TAG, or CCOG grants?
Are you the first in your family to attend college?
Do you or your family have a low annual income?
Do you or your family participate in a government assistance program?
Will you register for 12 or more credits?
Back to Top
Can I Get Financial Aid and EOF?
YES.
EOF will be listed among other financial aid awards. Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to continue eligibility for federal and state aid like EOF.
Back to Top
How Are Students Selected for EOF?
We seek motivated students with potential, interest, and the ability to partner with an advisor. The interview is important in making admission decisions. It offers EOF an opportunity to get to know applicants and determine if EOF is a good match, and allows applicants to be informed and make an active choice in accepting an offer.
We follow state regulations documenting financial need and review each application with attention, and care. EOF is not an entitlement program – eligibility does not always result in acceptance or an award.
Back to Top
Why Do I Have to Interview?
The interview helps us to review your eligibility. It is a chance for us to meet one-on-one and begin relationship-building. Working together with an EOF advisor is the cornerstone of the work we do.
The interview is from 45 to 60 minutes long. We ask a series of questions. All you need to do is be yourself. We suggest you use the interview to determine if EOF is a good match for you. Does our program support your goals and objectives? Can EOF help you earn your degree? Ask us how we can help.
Back to Top
Do I Have to Apply Every Year for EOF?
NO
. As long as you remain enrolled from semester to semester, you do not have to reapply. However, you must complete a FAFSA each year to maintain EOF eligibility.
Back to Top
I Am Going to Another College After OCC, Can I Still Receive EOF?
If eligible at OCC, you may be EOF eligible at a senior institution. We recommend you check with that institution regarding their admission process. Additionally, you may need to complete an EOF application, interview, etc. This link identifies participating institutions and contact information:
https://www.nj.gov/highereducation/EOF/EOF_Eligibility.shtml
Senior institutions will require a Transfer Form. That form identifies you as an EOF recipient and places you higher on the priority funding framework. Once you have completed our exiting process, we will send a transfer form to that institution with a copy to you.
Back to Top
Do I Have to Repay My EOF Grant?
No. Grants are a form of free monies and do not require repayment.
Back to Top
What EOF Meetings Do I Have to Attend?
EOF is a vibrant community. We require academic coaching, meeting with your advisor, and being engaged on campus. We want you to grow as a scholar and as an individual. We want you to embrace the concept of lifelong learning.
A course shell in Ocean Connect lists all program requirements. Upon acknowledgment of acceptance, permission to access the course is provided.
Back to Top
EOF Newsletter – A Year In Review
Enjoy our EOF newsletter that celebrates who we are, commending our accomplishments and successes.
Click the button to view a PDF of the 2024-2025 EOF Newsletter.
View Our Newsletter
New Students
We are now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester.
WHAT NEXT?
FIRST
, complete the
2026-27
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) using the link:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
.
SECOND
, Complete the EOF@OCEAN application for academic year 2026-2027.
2026-2027 EOF@OCEAN Application
Additional Resources
Expand All
Collapse All
NJ Tuition Equity Act – Are you a Dreamer?
NJ DREAM Act allows undocumented college students to pay in-state tuition rates. To request exemption from Nonresident Tuition and Fees, charged to non-New Jersey residents, students must complete, sign and submit the
Application for In-State Tuition
form via mail or bring the completed form with your high school transcript to
Registration and Records, Ocean County College, College Drive, PO Box 2001, Toms River, NJ 08754-2001
. Please refer to the links below for additional information and forms.
Application for In-State Tuition PDF
Dreamer Affidavit
Alternative Financial Aid for NJ Dreamers
Dreamer FAQs PDF
Back to Top
Instructions for Ordering a Tax Transcript
Documentation of ALL household income both taxable and non-taxable is required. Only tax transcripts from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are accepted. Whether you worked and filed, worked and did not file, or were not employed, official documentation from IRS is required.
ID.me
is a way you can register and identify yourself once and then access Veterans Association, Social Security,
and IRS documents
. Use the link to access ID.me:
https://www.id.me/government
.
ID.me
is a digital identification platform. A one-time identification allows users to create a profile, account to access government information.
It provides a
TWO-FACTOR IDENTIFICATION (2FA)
Protects user identification
Authenticates you as the owner of the account
By telephone or by text
Verify identity
Driver’s License
Passport
Questions
Consent to share information with partner agencies
To create an ID.ME ACCOUNT
Create password
Accept Terms of Service
Subscribe to Offers (if desired) OR Sign-in
DS Logon
Health Vet
Once the account is created you will be able to retrieve from these entities, the following:
FROM IRS
Apply for ITIN
Refund Status
Tax Records
Back to Top
Forms – Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
Re-Admit Addendum: For Former EOF Students who wish to reapply
Declaration of Non-Probate Paid Child Support Form
Sole Provider, Not/Never Married Statement PDF – Documenting no spousal income
Back to Top
Current EOF Students
Throughout your time with EOF, you will receive individualized guidance and support, maximizing opportunities for success and learning.
EOF requires your presence and engagement. Review the EOF@OCEAN program requirements below.
Requirements
Complete your FAFSA annually
Utilize academic coaching regularly
Meet with your EOF advisor monthly
Complete one Lifelong Learning workshop per semester
Participate in the annual EOF Summer Program
New Students: Complete a Study Skills Assessment and review
Returning Students with 24+ Credits: Complete a Graduation Audit advising session
Check EOF Canvas often – stay in the know
Participate in optional community and leadership events
Canvas Description
The EOF Canvas Shell looks just like a traditional course shell. ALL the requirements and activities you should be engaged in during your time at EOF are organized by credit hour and semester to guide you toward your Associate’s Degree.
In Announcements, we share the latest news about EOF and program happenings. You can reach out to academic coaches, advisors, and peers. You can upload documents and find any EOF document needed. Use this as another tool for your success – stay connected!
Use the link below to access Canvas:
Canvas log-in
Find Your Advisor
Laura Rickards
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2400
:
lrickards@ocean.edu
Michele Gioxaris
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2340
:
mgioxaris@ocean.edu
Jordan Mabe
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2981
:
jmabe@ocean.edu
Jennifer Olah
Phone
: 732-255-0400 ext. 2950
:
jolah@ocean.edu
What’s Happening at EOF Ocean?
EOF Scholar
Rivkie Kruman
founded a new club at Ocean: The Neuro Diversity Alliance
On October 16, 2025, EOF@OCEAN hosted our annual Fall Open House where we welcomed back our students with autumn themed treats, cider, and crafts. Six of our Alumni Scholars stopped by the event!
On July 30, 2025 EOF@OCEAN hosted our annual summer orientation program for new students. The day was filled with workshops and activities to help prepare our incoming scholars for their time at OCC.
EOF Director,
Laura Rickards
, and EOF Assistant Director,
Michele Gioxaris
, attended the EOF Directors Summit in Princeton, New Jersey.
EOF staff members
Michele Gioxaris
,
Jordan Mabe
, and
Jennifer Olah
attended the EOFPANJ Counselor Training Institute (CTI) at Monmouth University.
EOF Graduate
Elizabeth Macchioni
was selected as the 2025 Student Commencement Speaker.
New Student Summer Program: July 30, 2025
Graduates & Awards
EOF Graduates at the 2025 EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards Ceremony at Rutgers University
EOF Graduates at the 2025 EOF@OCEAN Graduate Awarding of the Medallion Ceremony
EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards
Each year graduating EOF students are recognized by the EOF Board of Directors and the Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.
To students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement during their college careers.
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FY2025 EOF State Achievement Awards
Student Name
GPA & Honors / Distinctions
Alexis Bajada
3.618 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Albert Burd
3.387 – Academic Achievement
Elisabeth Burns
3.733 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Wilson Castillo Alvarez
3.523 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Caitlin Cortes
4.0 – Distinguished Scholar Award
Dante Fernandes
3.255 – Academic Achievement
Viena Fuentes
3.681 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Billy Garces
2.304 – Outstanding Achievement
Khadira Johnson
3.21- Academic Achievement
Diana Lopez
3.373 – Academic Achievement
Elizabeth Macchioni
3.886 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Itzel Mateos
3.589 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Marco Ruiz
3.547 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Shana-Kay Smith
4.0 – Distinguished Scholar Award
Bianca VanBerkle
3.635 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Kenya Warren
3.683 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Arianna Young
3.383 – Academic Achievement
Maryam Zaman
3.929 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
Areeba Zulkarnain
3.957 – Outstanding Academic Achievement
This table lists the graduating EOF scholars from the class of 2025 who earned GPAs that qualified for the EOF State Graduate Achievement Awards along with their GPA and award distinction.
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EOF@Ocean Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
EOF@OCEAN Graduates
Alexis Bajada
Albert Burd
Elisabeth Burns
Jessica Campos
Wilson Castillo Alvarez
Caitlin Cortes
Erin Elizabeth
Dante Fernandes
Viena Fuentes
Billy Garces
Khadira Johnson
Diana Lopez
Elizabeth Macchioni
Mariah Macias
Itzel Mateos
Marco Ruiz
Bianca VanBerkle
Kenya Warren
Maryam Zaman
Areeba Zulkarnain
This table lists the names of all EOF Scholars in the graduating class of 2025.
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Congratulations to the EOF@OCEAN Class of 2025!
Alumni
Educational Opportunity Fund Statewide Alumni Association (EOFSAA):
http://www.eofsaa.org/
Educational Opportunity Fund Professional Association of New Jersey (EOFPANJ):
https://eofpanewjersey.org/eof-students-alumni/
Staff
Laura F. Rickards, Director
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2400
Michele Gioxaris, Assistant Director
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2340
Jordan Mabe, Recruiter / Advisor
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2981
Jennifer Olah, Office Coordinator
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0400 ext. 2950
Academic Coaches
Rochelle Blum, Academic Advisor
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Christine Cassidy, Academic Coach
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Jonas Weissbrod, Academic Coach
Educational Opportunity Fund
732-255-0311
Contact the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
EOF Office Information
Location:
Library Building 3, 1st Floor, Room 124
Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Office Contact Information
Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF)
1 College Drive, P.O. Box 2001
Toms River, NJ 08754
Phone:
732-255-0311
Email:
eof@ocean.edu
Helpful Links
EOF Program Income Eligibility Scale
EOF Program Description
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Ocean County College Financial Aid Office
Community College Opportunity Grant
HESAA – Higher Education Student Assistance Authority/NJFAMS