Bright Start 529 receives a Gold Morningstar Medal*

Morningstar logo

Morningstar independently evaluates, and rates college savings plans annually, assigning each rated plan a Morningstar Analyst Rating of Gold, Silver, Bronze, Neutral, or Negative. Bright Start 529 is one of only five Gold-rated 529 plans in the country.

In its review, Morningstar identified Bright Start 529 as a "Valedictorian" and as a standout plan offering "exceptional state stewardship of investor capital and well-constructed portfolios managed by competent investment teams." This is Bright Start 529's 7th Gold rating from Morningstar, placing the plan among the best in the nation.

Illinois' Bright Start Direct-Sold College Savings Plan offers compelling investment options that are also highly cost-effective.

–Morningstar, November 2025

Learn more about Bright Start 529's Morningstar rating here.

More to explore