Money from a 529 account can be used for major post-secondary education costs such as: Required tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment Certain room and board expenses, which may include food purchased directly through the college or university (for the stipulations of off-campus living - see below) Computers or peripheral equipment, software and the cost of internet access if used primarily by the beneficiary while enrolled in a post-secondary educational institution Expenses related to students with special needs For distributions after December 31, 2019, qualified higher education expenses now also include: Expenses for fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the participation of a designated beneficiary in a registered and certified apprenticeship program Payment of qualified education loans up to a lifetime maximum of $10,000 for a designated beneficiary or a sibling of the designated beneficiary In addition, for students living off campus, 529-qualified expenses for room and board may include rent, utilities and food not purchased directly from the college or university if those expenses do not exceed the allowance for room and board, as included in its cost of attendance. It's a good idea to contact the school's financial aid department for the exact figure.