When parents divorce, they often worry about how to support their children in the future. One big question is whether either parent will need to help pay for college. Unlike child support, Maryland doesn’t automatically cover college expenses, so parents need to review their options.
College costs are not guaranteed
Maryland courts do not require parents to pay for college after a divorce. Child support usually ends when a child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later.
Since college usually starts after that, the court does not treat it as a basic support obligation. That means the court won’t order either parent to pay unless both parents have already agreed to it. If the parents include college expenses in their divorce agreement or parenting plan, the court will enforce that promise.
Agreements make a difference
Many parents choose to include a college plan in their divorce settlement. They might agree on how much each parent will pay or set limits based on cost, time, or the child’s performance. Some parents also agree to split costs after financial aid is applied.
Without such an agreement, the court will not force either parent to contribute. Courts look closely at the wording in these agreements. Vague terms like “reasonable contribution” can lead to confusion and disputes. It helps to be specific about who must cover which costs and when. For example, parents can agree to pay tuition at a public university, limit the support to four years, or require full-time enrollment.
If the divorce case does not include a college expense agreement, parents will need to decide how to handle these costs on their own. Some choose to share expenses informally or have the child apply for loans and scholarships. Others may help later, but not through a court order.
Understanding how Maryland courts view college expenses can help parents plan ahead and avoid surprises. Taking time to include or update these details during divorce can ease the burden later and support the child’s future.
