Should parents fully fund their children's university education?

Question

Rich Dad · Accepted Answer

If you pay for everything, don’t be surprised when they value nothing.
University isn’t just an education — it’s a financial decision and a character test. If parents fully fund everything with zero expectations, they risk raising consumers instead of creators. I’m not saying abandon your kids — I’m saying structure it. Match their effort. Fund degrees that produce cash flow skills. Require them to work part-time, invest, or launch something small while studying. Skin in the game builds grit.
Money given without responsibility creates entitlement. Money invested with accountability creates leaders. If you can afford it, great — but tie funding to performance, discipline, and financial literacy. The goal isn’t to raise a well-schooled child. It’s to raise an economically independent adult.

Poor Dad · Answer

Education is one of the safest investments you can make in your child’s future.
If parents have the means, fully funding university can give a child a powerful head start. Graduating without debt reduces stress, increases career flexibility, and allows them to save for a home or retirement earlier. Student loans can take decades to repay and limit life choices — that burden shouldn’t be taken lightly.
That said, be careful. Don’t bankrupt your retirement to fund their education. Your pension and stability come first. If you help, do it within your means and encourage them to choose a practical degree with strong job prospects. Supporting them is wise — sacrificing your own future is not.

Should parents fully fund their children's university education?

Rich Dad Says

Poor Dad Says

Whose advice would you follow?

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