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Learn about saving for college

Start with a goal

You don’t have to try to save the full amount all at once. Start now, figure out your goal, and you can help your student borrow less in the future.

How to save for college

Compare ways to save

You have choices, ranging from basic savings accounts to tax-advantaged college savings plans. See what each has to offer and what's right for you.

Compare college savings plans

Build your own custom savings plan with the College Planning CalculatorSM

Explore your college savings options


Savings
accounts


Money market accounts


Certificates of deposit


Cash back for college programs


529 plan accounts

Boost your savings

You could win $1,000 in our monthly sweepstakes

Register to use Scholarship Search for a chance to win.

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SmartyPig® is turning 10

To celebrate, he’s doing 10 birthday giveaways on social media.

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The save before you buy mentality has always resonated with us. The newest use for our account is managing quarterly tax payments for a nanny. Instead of the money being mixed in with our standard checking, we have a dedicated goal that lets us track our progress and the account bears more interest than our standard bank savings account.


Devin H., SmartyPig customer

How American families save for college

use a 529 plan account

use a general savings account

use an investment account

use a certificate of deposit

Source: How America Saves for College 2016, by Sallie Mae and Ipsos. Responses may include more than one method; does not total 100%.

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of entries received. See official rules at SallieMae.com/SweepstakesRules.

No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries received. See Official Rules.