@NJRoadie from what I’ve heard and seen the merit aid TCNJ gives is based on students’ gpa and test scores. I don’t know much about need-based. Monmouth has programs for “under-privileged” youth where they get a full-ride plus merit aid for those students who are above-average compared to the average student.
Overall if I was sending a child to a NJ state school, I’d probably choose Rowan because of the cost savings. TCNJ isn’t going to be as generous and if you’re just looking for a teaching degree in NJ, save money and reduce your debt.