Compare 6 state prepaid tuition plans for 2026 on guarantees, enrollment access and flexibility, plus how they compare to 529 savings plans.
If you want the best prepaid tuition plan in 2026, the strongest options come from states that still run guaranteed programs, such as Florida, Texas, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi (learn more about the 7 best college admissions consultants of 2026) and Washington (learn more about 529 plan vs. other college savings: complete comparison), because they let you lock in future in-state tuition at today's rates. We compared 6 programs on guarantee strength, enrollment access, portability and flexibility. This guide is for parents who value certainty over market upside (learn more about financial aid for college: complete guide to maximizing aid) (learn more about 529 plan tax benefits: complete guide to tax advantages) (learn more about early literacy development: building reading skills from birth to age 5) (learn more about middle school academic planning: setting the stage for high school success) and expect their child to attend an in-state public college. Enrollment windows and rules change, so confirm status with each program.
| Criteria | Weight | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Strength of the guarantee (state backing) | High | Determines what happens if tuition rises faster than expected |
| Open enrollment and eligibility | High | Several states have closed or limited enrollment windows |
| Flexibility if your child goes elsewhere | Medium | Refund and transfer rules differ widely |
| Cost and payment options | Medium | Monthly vs. lump-sum matters for budgets |
| Coverage beyond tuition | Low | Some plans cover fees or housing |
Data sources: each state program's official plan documents, the College Savings Plans Network, and the SEC's investor guidance on 529 plans.
Best for: Florida families expecting an in-state public college path
Type: Prepaid tuition with state-backed guarantee
Enrollment: Annual open enrollment period (verify dates)
Florida's prepaid plans have long been among the largest in the country and let families lock in Florida public university tuition. Enrollment is typically limited to an annual window.
Florida residents who expect an in-state public education. If your child may leave the state, a standard 529 may be better.
Best for: Texas families
Type: Prepaid tuition units
Enrollment: Typically annual enrollment (verify)
The Texas Tuition Promise Fund sells tuition units that can be used toward Texas public colleges, with state backing for the fund.
Texas families who want to lock in tuition against rising costs.
Best for: Maryland residents
Type: Prepaid tuition contract
Enrollment: Annual enrollment (verify)
Maryland's Prepaid College Trust offers tuition contracts for Maryland public colleges, with an enrollment period each year.
Families confident in an in-state public path.
Best for: Michigan parents
Type: Prepaid tuition contract
Enrollment: Typically annual window (verify)
MET lets Michigan families prepay tuition for in-state public colleges. Review contract terms on benefit payout if a child attends elsewhere.
Michigan families who want certainty over investment upside.
Best for: Mississippi families
Type: Prepaid tuition contract
Enrollment: Annual enrollment (verify)
MPACT offers contracts for tuition at Mississippi public institutions, with a state guarantee.
Mississippi families committed to in-state public colleges.
Best for: Washington families who want a unit-based approach
Type: Prepaid tuition units
Enrollment: Verify current status
Washington's GET program sells units redeemable for tuition and fees at Washington public colleges, with a state guarantee. Unit values can change; verify the latest rules.
Washington families who want guaranteed tuition coverage with more flexibility.
| Plan | State | Type | Best For | Key Caveat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Prepaid | FL | Prepaid | Long-term coverage | Enrollment window |
| Texas Tuition Promise Fund | TX | Units | Texas publics | Window |
| Maryland Prepaid College Trust | MD | Contract | MD families | Window |
| MET | MI | Contract | MI families | Reduced out-of-state |
| MPACT | MS | Contract | MS families | Window |
| GET | WA | Units | Flexible units | Unit price changes |
We reviewed plan documents and official state program pages, College Savings Plans Network information, and SEC investor guidance. We excluded programs closed to new enrollment where we could confirm it. Program status changes, so verify with the state before enrolling. Last updated: October 2026. We review this guide twice a year.
A plan that lets you buy future college tuition at today's prices, typically for in-state public colleges.
Prepaid plans offer certainty about tuition; standard 529 savings plans offer more flexibility and investment growth. Read our guide to 529 plans vs. Coverdell ESAs.
Most plans refund contributions, sometimes with limited or no earnings. Check each plan's terms.
Benefits are often paid at in-state rates, which may not cover full tuition elsewhere.
Some plans offer housing options. Most focus on tuition and fees.
Many are backed by the state, but the strength of the guarantee varies. Read the plan documents.
See our guide on how much to save in a 529 by age.
Yes, many plans allow contributions. See best 529 plans for grandparents and 529 gifting platforms.
They can count as assets. Rules vary by plan type and ownership, so check with a financial aid officer.
A standard 529, or college savings apps that help build a fund.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax or legal advice. Program rules, enrollment windows and benefits change and vary by state. Consult a qualified advisor before making decisions. Some links may be affiliate links; this does not influence our rankings.
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