A student in Jiangsu province attempted to sue his parents because they were unable to pay his tuition fees, but the judge dismissed the case, Shanghai-based Oriental Morning Post reported.

The 18-year-old sophomore in Lianyungang city brought his case to the Lianyun district court.

He requested that the court order his parents to pay tuition and living expenses for the next three years of college life.

He took the action after the parents said they had spent all they could afford to pay his expenses for the previous year.

The mother is the family's breadwinner as the father suffers from ill health and is confined to bed. His treatment costs hundreds of yuan every month.

The judge said that parents have no legal obligation to shoulder the costs for children aged 18 or older.

Netizens suggested that the student apply for loans and find part-time work.