College cost calculator
See the four-year cost—and the gap you still need to fund
Go beyond tuition. Add living costs, inflation, grants, scholarships, savings and family contributions for a realistic year-by-year plan.
What this estimate includes
We compound each cost annually by your inflation assumption and separately grow grants and scholarships. Existing savings are applied once across the full plan; annual family contributions are applied each year. The remaining amount is the funding gap—not automatically the amount you should borrow.
Starting presets are based on the College Board’s 2025 Trends in College Pricing ↗ national averages and are not a quote from a particular college. Always use the institution’s official cost of attendance and your financial-aid offer for a final decision.
College cost FAQ
Make a more realistic cost estimate
What costs should I include in a college cost estimate?
Include tuition and mandatory fees, housing and food, books and supplies, travel, and personal expenses. Then subtract grants, scholarships, savings, and family contributions.
Why does the calculator apply inflation each year?
Tuition and living costs can change between enrollment years. Applying your chosen inflation rate avoids treating the first-year price as if it will stay fixed.
Is the funding gap the amount I should borrow?
No. The funding gap is the amount not covered by the resources you entered. You can reduce it through more aid, lower-cost choices, work income, payment plans, or additional savings before considering loans.