Undocumented students in New Jersey now have access to state financial aid.

The new law went into effect last month and media reports cite anecdotal evidence that newly eligible students are taking advantage of the benefit.

One immigrant rights group told NorthJersey.com — a Gannett online newspaper — that it had already helped more than 300 people apply for state aid through the program.

“What we are trying to do is ensure the success of Governor Murphy’s initiative here,’’ David J. Socolow, the executive director of the state’s Higher Education Student Assistance Authority told NorthJersey.com. “And [we] essentially hope that all students who are eligible take the time to fill out the application and see what kind of help is available to help them achieve their dreams and complete a college education.”

New Jersey is the 10th state in the nation to offer state financial aid to undocumented students. The deadline to submit an application for the fall semester is Sept. 15.

To be eligible, students must have attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years. Applicants must have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent. They also must file an affidavit stating they will take steps to legalize their immigration status.

Read the full story, learn more about the program, and see more tips to help make college a reality for undocumented students.

Admitted writer/editor Mary Stegmeir welcomes additional comments and story ideas at mstegmeir@nacacnet.org.