Application for admission shall be made to the State board by a parent, guardian or friend of a proposed pupil in the manner directed by the board. The board shall require that the application be accompanied by a certificate from a judge of the Superior Court or the county clerk of the county, a chosen freeholder or clerk of the township, the mayor or other executive officer of the municipality in which the applicant shall reside, stating:
a. That the applicant is a legal resident of the municipality claimed as his residence;
b. The age, circumstances and capacity of the proposed pupil; and
c. The ability or inability of the proposed pupil or his parent or guardian to pay any part of the expense of his care and maintenance.