Does New Jersey pay for unemployment and school as well?

by rose
(new jersey)

Hello,
I live in New Jersey and have been unemployed for almost a year now. I'm currently collecting unemployment. Recently, I've consider going back to school to get a graduate degree. Does the state of New Jersey allow you to collect unemployment while going back to school part time/full time? Also, are there any government aids or any other sources that will help fund my education to improve my work skills while I'm not working? Thank you!

Rose



Hi Rose,

I doubt you will get any WIA grant money for graduate school, but you might for certifications.

The USDOL says this about collecting unemployment while attending school in NJ.

"Yes, disqualified, including vacation periods, unless student earned wages sufficient to qualify
for benefits while attending school."

It says also that the statutes specifically mentions students.

That would make me nervous about collecting unemployment and then starting school. It seems to suggest that unless you are receiving unemployment from a job you lost while concurrently going to school you would be found not able and available ..

What do you think? Any chance you could call the State of NJ and confirm or amend my opinion?

I do think that NJ has training benefits, but I seriously, question whether training benefits would be approved to attend graduate school .. unlike acquiring a certification to enhance .. let's say a nursing degree.