College savings calculator
Know whether your savings will reach the goal in time
Inflate today’s college cost to enrollment, model investment growth, and calculate the monthly contribution needed to close any shortfall.
How the savings math works
The future goal compounds today’s college cost by your inflation rate. Savings grow monthly, with contributions modeled at the end of each month. “Required monthly” solves for the contribution that would reach the future goal under those assumptions.
This educational projection does not include taxes, investment fees, market volatility, financial-aid changes, or account-specific rules.
College savings FAQ
Build a plan you can revisit
How much should I save each month for college?
The right amount depends on the future college-cost goal, current savings, years until enrollment, and assumed return. This calculator solves for the monthly contribution needed under those assumptions.
What return should I use for college savings?
Use a conservative assumption that matches how the money is invested and how soon it will be needed. Returns are uncertain, so test lower rates as well as your expected rate.
Does college-cost inflation matter?
Yes. A college cost quoted in today’s dollars may be substantially higher by enrollment. The calculator inflates today’s goal separately from investment growth.