Students all across the boroughs have officially headed back to the classroom after a fun-filled summer in our favorite city! But for parents and caregivers, it’s never too early to start thinking about what comes next.
College and career planning may feel like a long way off for little New Yorkers, but there’s actually a city program that can help families start saving for their future. Through the NYC Kids RISE Save for College Program, eligible NYC public school students can receive money toward a college or career training fund, with the city-affiliated nonprofit matching certain family contributions along the way. In fact, families can unlock up to $100 in matching funds simply by taking a few steps to activate and contribute to their child’s NYC Scholarship Account.
The program is designed to make saving for higher education feel a little more accessible, automatically enrolling eligible K-5 students and giving families the opportunity to build on those initial funds over time.
Here’s what NYC parents and caregivers need to know about the program, how to activate an account, and how to maximize the free money available for their child’s future.
Free Savings for College: What the Program Offers Your Child
- Free Initial Funds: NYC Kids RISE sets up a 529 investment account pre-funded on your child’s behalf.
- Earn Up to $100+ More: Families can unlock additional matching funds by completing simple steps like activating the account and starting a savings plan.
- Community Boosts: Local businesses and non-profits often add “Community Scholarships” directly into student accounts to boost local savings.
- Zero Out-of-Pocket Requirement: You are never required to deposit your own money to keep the free scholarship funds.
Got Questions? Everything NYC Parents Need to Know
- Who is eligible? All NYC public school and participating charter school students in Kindergarten through 5th Grade are eligible.
- What information is shared? NYC Public Schools securely shares basic student information, such as name, address, grade, and parent contact details, with NYC Kids RISE and its technology vendor, Nonprofitly. The information is protected under FERPA and is not sold or used for marketing.
- How do I view and activate my child’s account? Parents of returning students can log in anytime, while accounts for new and kindergarten students become available in January after fall enrollment. NYC Kids RISE sends setup instructions by mail and email.
- Can I opt out? Yes. Participation is optional. Parents can opt out during the annual 30-day fall window through their NYC Schools Account (NYCSA) or by requesting and returning a paper opt-out form to their child’s school.