The Michigan Education Trust is urging parents and grandparents who want to ensure the affordability of college tuition to "lock in tomorrow's tuition at today's rates" before January 31st.

Despite college tuition increases in 2007, MET held contract costs steady for families purchasing a MET prepaid tuition contract before January 31^st. Contracts purchased between February 1 and August 31, 2008 will carry slightly higher prices.

"We must continue to do all we can to make higher education as affordable and accessible as possible," said State Treasurer Robert J. Kleine, Chair of the MET Board. "In the 21^st century economy, students need to continue their education beyond high school. MET is a proven way for their families to help ensure future tuition costs are covered."

With a MET contract, you'll never pay more for tuition than it costs today. Tuition can be purchased by semester, up to four years (eight semesters) of education. Easy payment options are available, and the total MET contract price, including enrollment fees, qualifies for a Michigan income tax deduction. Enrollments are accepted online or by mail. Visit www.SETwithMET.com for enrollment information.

Since its debut in 1988 as the nation's first guaranteed tuition program, MET has sold more than 84,000 contracts and now has more than $1 billion in assets. Not only are MET contracts portable to Michigan private and out-of-state colleges and universities, they may be transferred to other eligible family members. Since 1988, well over 90 percent of high school graduates with MET contracts have gone on to attend a college or university.

For more information visit www.SETwithMET.com or call 1-800-MET-4-KID (800-638-4543).