College Cost Calculator

Estimate total college costs, project savings growth, and find your monthly savings target.

School & Cost Details

School Type

Current Annual Cost ($)

Cost Inflation (%/yr)

Child's Current Age

Years Until College

Default costs based on College Board averages (2024-25). Adjust to your target school.

Your Savings

Savings So Far ($)

Monthly Savings ($)

Investment Return (%/yr)

Scholarship / Grants ($/yr)

529 Plan Tax Benefit

State Income Tax Rate (%)

State 529 Deduction Limit ($/yr)

529 earnings grow tax-free federally. Many states also offer income tax deductions on contributions.

Financial Aid (Simplified EFC)

Household Income ($/yr)

Non-Retirement Assets ($)

Family Size

Number in College

Simplified Student Aid Index (SAI) estimate. Actual FAFSA results will vary.

Projected Results

Savings Gap Analysis

529 Plan Tax Savings

Financial Aid Estimate

Savings vs. Cost Projection

Year-by-Year Savings Growth

Year	Age	Contrib.	Growth	Balance	Proj. Cost

About This Calculator

This college cost calculator helps families estimate the true cost of a 4-year degree, factoring in tuition inflation, investment growth, 529 plan tax benefits, and financial aid eligibility. The financial aid estimate uses a simplified version of the Student Aid Index (SAI) formula. Actual costs and aid will depend on the specific institution, your complete financial profile, and current federal/state aid programs. Consult a financial advisor for personalized guidance.