How is future college cost projected?

Each year of study is inflated from today: cost × (1 + inflation)^(years until that school year). The years are then added together.

What tuition inflation rate should I use?

Published college prices have historically risen faster than general inflation. Many planners use 4–6% per year.

Does this assume the savings stay invested during college?

No. As a conservative simplification, the full funding target is due when college starts.

Are grants or scholarships included?

No. Reduce the annual cost to reflect expected aid.

Yes. Everything runs in your browser.

College Tuition Inflation Calculator

Project the future cost of college with tuition inflation and find the monthly savings needed to cover it.

100% free
Private in browser
No signup
No watermarks

Current annual cost of attendance ($)

College cost inflation (%/yr)

Years until college

Years in college

Current college savings ($)

Expected return on savings (%/yr)

First-year cost

$48,866.84

Total projected cost

$210,622.18

Current savings at enrollment

$35,816.95

Funding gap

$174,805.23

Monthly savings needed

$1,075.90

Rate this tool

Be the first to rate — helps others and improves this page.

About College Tuition Inflation Calculator

College costs rise faster than general inflation. Enter today’s annual cost, tuition inflation, years until enrollment and your current savings to see the projected total cost of a degree and how much to save each month.

How to use College Tuition Inflation Calculator

Enter today’s annual cost of attendance and the expected cost inflation rate.
Enter the years until college starts and how many years of study to fund.
Add current savings and expected return to see the gap and monthly savings needed.

Key features

Each college year inflated separately
Growth of existing savings
Funding gap at enrollment
Monthly savings target
Private in-browser math

Frequently asked questions

How is future college cost projected?: Each year of study is inflated from today: cost × (1 + inflation)^(years until that school year). The years are then added together.
What tuition inflation rate should I use?: Published college prices have historically risen faster than general inflation. Many planners use 4–6% per year.
Does this assume the savings stay invested during college?: No. As a conservative simplification, the full funding target is due when college starts.
Are grants or scholarships included?: No. Reduce the annual cost to reflect expected aid.
Is my data private?: Yes. Everything runs in your browser.

Related In-Depth Guides

Learn practical workflows, real-world examples, and expert tips in our comprehensive guides:

Home Renovation & DIY · 8 min read