3. As used in this act, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
The term "board" shall mean the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund created by section 4 of P.L.1968, c.142 (C.18A:71-31).
The term "department" shall mean the Department of State.
The term "fund" shall mean the New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund created by section 4 of P.L.1968, c.142 (C.18A:71-31).
The term "higher education" shall mean that education which is provided by any or all of the public institutions of higher education as herein defined or any or all equivalent private institutions.
The term "public institutions of higher education" shall mean and include Rutgers, The State University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rowan University, Montclair State University, Kean University, the five State colleges, the county colleges, and any other public universities, colleges, or county colleges now or hereafter established or authorized by law.