Oregon College Cost Contribution Estimator

Yes, Oregon courts can order college support under ORS 107.108. This statute allows courts to require either or both divorced parents to provide support for unmarried children ages 18-20 who are enrolled at least half-time and maintaining satisfactory academic progress. Support ends at age 21 regardless of whether the child is still in school. However, the statute extends existing child support—it does not authorize courts to order tuition payments as a separate expense.

Oregon uses the standard child support guidelines formula under ORS 25.275, considering both parents' gross income, earnings potential, and existing obligations to minor children. Courts evaluate each parent's real and personal property, the child's academic standing, and available resources like financial aid. Support is prorated when multiple children receive support, and courts may order one or both parents to contribute based on their respective financial circumstances.

Oregon law does not impose a statutory cap limiting support to public university tuition rates. The ORS 107.108 support is calculated using standard child support guidelines rather than actual tuition costs. However, the statute explicitly states that support is intended to supplement—not replace—other resources and is not meant to cover all educational expenses. Parents can negotiate specific caps in their settlement agreement.

Starting with the 2024-25 FAFSA, the "custodial parent" is defined as the parent who provides the most financial support—not the parent the child lives with most. Only that parent's income and assets are reported, plus any stepparent's information if remarried. Child support received counts as untaxed income, while child support paid is no longer deductible. This change can significantly impact aid eligibility for Oregon students.

Under Oregon's equitable distribution rules (ORS 107.105), 529 plans funded during the marriage are generally considered marital property subject to division. The account owner controls distributions, but courts can order the plan be used for the child's education. ORS 107.108 specifically allows courts to order support payments through an existing 529 plan rather than requiring direct support payments to the adult child.

Yes, Oregon parents can contractually agree to college contribution terms in their divorce settlement, and these agreements are enforceable. This is often preferable because it allows parents to specify contribution percentages, school type limitations, GPA requirements, and duration beyond what the court might order. Voluntary agreements can also include direct tuition payments, which courts cannot order under ORS 107.108.

Oregon law does not distinguish between public and private institutions for ORS 107.108 support. Eligible schools include any accredited college, university, community college, vocational program, or technical training. Since support is calculated using child support guidelines rather than tuition costs, the child's choice of institution does not directly increase the parent's obligation—though parents may negotiate private school caps in voluntary agreements.

Under ORS 107.108, eligibility for college support ends at age 21, even if the child is still enrolled and making satisfactory progress. Support also terminates if the child marries, joins active military service, or becomes legally emancipated. The child must maintain at least half-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress as defined by their institution. Support continues during regularly scheduled breaks if the child intends to return the following term.