In New York, parents are not automatically obligated to pay for college. However, those whi have assumed this responsibility in a divorce agreement, would have to honor the obligations. Also, upon application by one parent, for parents of means, a court may compel the other parent to contribute to college tuition and room and board if the child resides on or off campus. Make sure in such situation that you ask for credit against child support for the payments you make towards your son or daughter's college residential expenses. You cannot ask for any credit against college tuition expenses.