Saving for post-secondary – how much do I actually need to save for my kids?

With the school year just around the corner, it’s time to get your budgeting game on point! PenFinancial Credit Union’s Financial Services Specialist, Catherine Palmer, has got you covered in her most recent blog article. Check it out https://hubs.la/Q0207bRM0

Catherine shares some invaluable advice to help you prioritize your savings and set yourself up for success!

The increasing cost over time

The cost of post-secondary education in Canada has been outpacing inflation, and it’s important to be aware of this trend. Over the past two decades, tuition fees have increased significantly, and this upward trajectory is expected to continue. According to recent estimates, the average tuition fees for undergraduate programs in Canada could reach $20,000 to $30,000 per year by the time today’s newborns are ready to enter post-secondary education. (Source: Understanding the costs and approaches of paying for an education)

There are options to help you save:

OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program)

OSAP provides financial assistance, including loans and grants, to eligible students in Ontario.

Scholarships

Scholarships can be obtained from various sources such as universities, colleges, government organizations, and private institutions. They provide financial support without the need for repayment.

RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans)

RESPs are investment accounts specifically designed to save for a child’s post-secondary education. Contributions to an RESP grow tax-free, and the government matches up to 20% of contributions (to a maximum of $500 per year). There are also additional top-up payments from the government like the Canada Learning Bond, depending on household income.

An example showing the power of RESPs

Suppose you’re saving exactly $2500 per year ($208.34 per month) to maximize the $500 grant from the government and invest that money with a PenFinancial investment specialist. At a 7% annual return, you’ll end up with $102,920.31 when your child turns 18 years old which almost exactly matches the estimates provided by the Globe and Mail sourced above. Of course, this is just in theory, however, it demonstrates that realistically, saving just $208.34 per month should effectively fund an entire 4-year degree for your child if you start early.

Let’s Chat

As always, come chat with us to find out if an RESP is right for you. As education costs continue to rise, it’s never a bad time to start.