Higher Education

Save for more than just tuition

Tuition can be expensive, but it’s only part of the total cost. You can also save in a 529 account to pay for a wide variety of other expenses. Along with the expenses listed below, you may also use your account to pay for off-campus housing, special needs services and up to $10,000 in qualified student loan repayment.

Tuition and fees

Room

Textbooks

Computers and equipment

Meal plans

Internet and software

Expanding on educational expenses

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Looking to Pay for Study Abroad? Your Invest529 Account Can Help

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Using Your 529 Account for Special Needs Equipment

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Can I Use My 529 Account to Rent Textbooks?

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Saving for Room and Board with a 529 Account

Qualified expenses FAQs

Can I use my account to pay for dual enrollment classes taken while still in high school?

Yes. You can use your Invest529 account for dual enrollment courses if they are offered through an eligible college and count toward a degree. Make sure the fees are billed by the school.

Are study abroad programs covered?

Yes, in most cases. Tuition, required fees, and other course related expenses may qualify if your U.S. college approves the program and the foreign school is eligible for federal student aid. Travel and sightseeing costs do not qualify.

What about transportation, insurance, or extracurricular activity fees?

These costs are usually not eligible. Only expenses required for enrollment or attendance, such as mandatory lab fees or course materials, can be covered.

Can room and board be covered if my student lives off campus?

Yes. Room and board expenses qualify if the student is enrolled at least half time. Off campus housing costs cannot exceed the school’s published cost of attendance. Keep documentation of the housing costs.

Can I use 529 funds for special programs like honors courses, lab fees, or mandatory field trips?

Yes, if the program is required for enrollment or part of the curriculum and billed by the school. Optional field trips or extracurricular activities that are not required for course credit are not eligible.