College Cost Calculator
College Cost Inputs
Cost Summary
| Total Cost (all years, with inflation) | — |
|---|---|
| Total at Today's Prices (no inflation) | — |
| Inflation Premium | — |
Projected Cost by Year
Planning for Future College Costs
College expenses typically rise faster than general inflation. This calculator projects each enrollment year's cost by compounding your chosen inflation rate from today's annual cost, then sums the total over the degree length.
How Projections Work
- Year 1 cost = current annual cost × (1 + inflation)years until college.
- Each subsequent year compounds one more year of inflation.
- The total reflects all projected annual costs; the inflation premium is the difference from paying today's price each year.
FAQ
What should I include in annual cost? Use the full sticker price you expect to pay—tuition, mandatory fees, housing, and meal plans if applicable. Subtract expected grants or scholarships separately if you model aid elsewhere.
Disclaimer. This calculator is for informational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or investment advice. Actual tuition increases vary by institution and year. Consult a qualified professional for education savings planning.