ScholarShare 529 Surpasses $1 Billion in 2025 Contributions

Californians contributed more than $1 billion to ScholarShare 529 in 2025, underscoring how families continue to see the value of investing in higher education and the future of the state's students.

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Oct. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ScholarShare 529, California's official college savings plan, announced today that families have contributed more than $1 billion in 2025 alone¹— a milestone that demonstrates how Californians continue to see the value of investing in higher education, even in times of economic uncertainty.  

ScholarShare 529 offers tax advantages and flexible investment options designed to meet the changing needs of today's families.  Account earnings grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified higher education expenses.

"Reaching $1 billion in contributions in just one year is a powerful reminder that California families are investing in their children's futures like never before," said State Treasurer Fiona Ma, CPA, Chair of the ScholarShare Investment Board which oversees the plan. "ScholarShare 529 is helping families take control of the rising cost of higher education, and every dollar saved today can mean more opportunities and less debt for our students tomorrow."

ScholarShare 529 accounts can be used to pay for a wide range of qualified higher education expenses, including tuition, books, computers and other costs at community colleges, universities, technical schools, eligible apprenticeship programs and even institutions abroad.

The program also makes it easy for friends and relatives to contribute through Ugift®, a free and secure gifting tool that helped many families boost their savings in 2025, reflecting the growing popularity of collective support for education goals.

For families looking to get started on their college savings opportunities, learn more, or to open an account, visit ScholarShare529.com.

About ScholarShare 529

ScholarShare 529 is California's official college savings plan, offering families a powerful tool to save for education. Contributions grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified higher education expenses. Learn more at ScholarShare529.com.   

To learn more about California's ScholarShare 529, its investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses see the Plan Description at ScholarShare529.com before investing. Read it carefully. Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, is the distributor and underwriter for ScholarShare 529. 4868190

1. As of October 1^st 2025, contributions of $1,050 billion according to company records.

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SOURCE ScholarShare 529