There are websites that let you do this (or variations thereof). Take a look at upstart for instance.

I don't get the outrage. If my son was accepted at Virginia Tech, but wanted to attend Tulane instead, fine but I'm not paying the $20k delta.

How old of an adult? 18 or 35? It makes a difference.

Is this for college or grad school ?

Interesting idea. Not sure I'd have the guts to do this.

[quote=Anonymous]Say yes and do it or say no because you're not comfortable with it. Given that you're considering it, you already don't trust the kid's judgment. Say no. [/quote]

I don't this this is about the kid's judgement - it's a bet that the kid does well and the parent-investor makes a gain on the investment.

Probably - I read that venture capitalists are doing this for bright entrepreneurial computer science majors.

Of course.

You could do an interest free loan that doesn't have to be repaid until they are employed.

Not mean at all. An intermediate between paying for everything and contributing nothing.

Anonymous wrote:Sounds like it could get messy. If the kid doesn't honor the contract are you going to take them to court? That won't end well.

Good point.

Do an informal family written contract that you can point to. But don't lend it unless you are willing to give it and never see it again.

Sounds like it could get messy. If the kid doesn't honor the contract are you going to take them to court? That won't end well.

Say yes and do it or say no because you're not comfortable with it. Given that you're considering it, you already don't trust the kid's judgment. Say no.

What parent would do this?!

Seriously?

That's my question. Say, an adult child wants tuition assistance. Can I as a parent make a legal contract to provide the assistance in exchange for a share of his future earnings?