Prepaid tuition program enrollment opens

The fiscal year 2003 enrollment period for Nevada's Prepaid Tuition Program is open.

Families may register youngsters for the college-savings plan through June 15.

Newborns can be enrolled through June 30 and the end of the fiscal year.

The prepaid tuition program provides a guarantee of four years' college tuition when the child graduates from high school, in return for a payment now. The cost of enrollment depends on the age of the youngster when he or she is enrolled.

State Treasurer Brian Krolicki, whose office manages the program, said prepaid tuition is a smart way to save for college and a sound investment, despite increases in parents' costs this year.

The university system raised its tuition rates 15 percent over the past two years, forcing a re-examination of pricing models for the program. As a result, prices this year are up from 10.4 percent to 55 percent, depending on the age of the child, the college option and the payment schedule.

Detailed information is on the treasurer's Web site at Nevada Treasurer.com or by calling the prepaid tuition office at (888) 477-2667.