To people with different level of income, it is total different

if the medium house income of the country is about 50K, most parents will struggle between their own retirement and kid's education. I still remember the first line from CNN webpage about this topic: Parents' retirement is always first, because kids can fiance their education, and nobody can finance their retirement. I made it very clearly to my kids--I don;t want to be their burden when I am aged. 

This is not gaming the system. A responsible parents should plan in advance for kids' education with limited resource. I am still glad I prepared in advance and my daughter's 4 year college went very smooth. If you are rich, no plan needed, congratulation to you. I also want you know that your kids likely have an edge to get into a good college since all colleges are struggled with their budget, and kids with no finance-aid need will benefit.