New Jersey extends free mental health services for college students through 2026-27 academic year
TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Office of the Secretary of Higher Education announced Thursday that free teletherapy and on-demand wellness services for college students will continue through the 2026-27 academic year under the Sherrill administration’s partnership with Uwill.
The statewide program provides unlimited access to licensed mental health counselors and wellness programming for students attending 45 participating colleges and universities across New Jersey.
Since launching in April 2023, the initiative has provided 114,537 therapy sessions to 23,295 students, according to the state.
“My Administration is committed to ensuring New Jersey’s children and young adults have access to the mental health tools and resources they need to thrive. We are seeing that young people across our country are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis, and our college students are no exception,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “Our students shouldn’t have to struggle alone. By extending New Jersey’s partnership, we’re ensuring students continue to benefit from quick and free access to licensed mental health counselors and investing in the success of the bright talent that will shape New Jersey’s future.”
Students enrolled at participating colleges will continue to have access to the service throughout the summer and the upcoming academic year. Incoming students this fall can register using their college email address.
“Strengthening mental health is a critical priority of the Sherrill Administration, from our students in K–12 classrooms to the adults navigating college and entering the workforce. Extending this partnership reaffirms New Jersey’s commitment to supporting our students and families,” said Acting Secretary of Higher Education Margo Chaly. “Today’s college students are balancing academics, jobs and family responsibilities, and they deserve support that is accessible and flexible. This partnership delivers that by reaching students beyond standard office hours and beyond campus, wherever and whenever they need help.”
State officials said the program complements campus counseling centers by expanding access to care during evenings, weekends and school breaks. Nearly 34,000 therapy sessions have taken place during school breaks when many campus counseling centers are closed, while 31% of sessions occurred after normal business hours or on weekends.
Based on average insurance co-pays for therapy, the state estimates students have saved between $2.3 million and $5.7 million in out-of-pocket costs over the past three years.
“New Jersey’s commitment to student mental health continues to set a national standard and this extension ensures that work continues under Governor Sherrill’s leadership,” said Michael London, founder and CEO of Uwill. “Today’s students need support that is immediate, accessible, and responsive to the complexity of their lives. We are proud to deliver that to New Jersey students, and grateful to Governor Sherrill, Acting Secretary Chaly, and our partners at all 45 institutions for making it possible.”
A 2025 Gallup study cited by the state found that one in three college students nationwide has considered leaving school, with 49% citing emotional stress and 41% citing personal mental health reasons.
