College Expense Contributions

College Expenses in Divorces

Many divorces do not specify exact college expenses. Often, when the divorce is finalized, the child is too young to project actual college costs. Courts commonly reserve these expenses for future consideration. Once the child approaches college age, the court can help determine the parents’ and child’s financial obligations if no agreement can be reached directly. The child also bears some responsibility, taking scholarships, loans, and prior college savings into account. In Illinois, courts often reference the standard costs for attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

What Costs Are Considered?

College preparatory classes, applications, reasonable living expenses, housing, books, tuition, and medical and dental insurance make up most costs a parent may need to contribute. These obligations fall under Section 513 of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act (750 ILCS 5/513). Courts only consider obligations from the date of filing, and they will not address past college expenses.

How Courts Evaluate Contributions

Courts evaluate each parent’s income, retirement savings, and standard of living. They also consider the child’s expected standard of living if the marriage had not ended. If the student needs extra time to finish college, courts ensure both parents can access transcripts, grades, and school records. Courts stop ordered contributions if the child fails to maintain a “C” average, turns 23, earns a bachelor’s degree, or gets married.

Need Assistance?

If your child is heading to college or is already enrolled and issues about college expenses arise, we invite you to contact our office.