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College Cost Calculator
Project how much college may cost by the time your child starts, using today's price and education cost inflation.
College costs rise faster than general inflation, which makes early planning worth real money. This calculator projects what college is likely to cost when your child enrolls, and the monthly saving needed to get there.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the current yearly cost of the college you have in mind.
- Add the years until enrollment and an inflation rate for tuition.
- Enter what you have already saved and the return you expect.
- Press calculate to see the projected cost and the monthly saving required.
Start with a realistic inflation rate
Tuition has historically risen around 3 to 5% a year in many markets. Using general inflation (2%) makes the target look easier than it is; using a tuition-specific rate gives a plan that survives contact with reality.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I save for college?
Aim for a share you can sustain — many families target a third to a half of projected costs from savings, with the rest from income during college and aid. A consistent monthly amount started early beats a large one started late.
Do 529 plans or education accounts help?
In the US, 529 plans let savings grow and be withdrawn tax-free for education costs. Other countries have similar schemes; the calculator's return assumption works the same either way.
What if college is only a few years away?
Shorten the assumed return (lower-risk savings), and focus on the monthly amount. Even partial funding reduces the loans needed.