Child Support and College: Does It Continue After 18?

Many custodial parents wonder whether child support continues when the child reaches 18 but is enrolled in college. In California, the answer depends on specific circumstances — and it’s important to understand them before the child’s 18th birthday.

When Support Extends to 19

California law extends child support until the child turns 19 if the child is still enrolled full-time in high school and is expected to graduate before their 19th birthday. Voluntary college attendance beyond high school does not automatically extend support — there is no California statute requiring support through college (unlike some other states).

Arrears don’t disappear when support ends. When the support obligation terminates — whether at 18, 19, or after a modification — any unpaid arrears remain fully collectable indefinitely. There is no statute of limitations on child support arrears in California. Custodial parents who are owed arrears can continue enforcement indefinitely after the underlying support obligation ends.

The California Child Support Recovery System gives custodial parents the exact tools and templates to enforce support orders, calculate arrears, and use every enforcement mechanism available. Request your free evaluation here.