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College Savings Calculator — How Much to Save for College

College costs have risen 3–5% annually for decades. This calculator helps you plan how much to save monthly to cover projected tuition costs for a child born today.

Calculator

Pre-filled with typical values for this scenario. Adjust any field to see updated results.

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Default Scenario — What These Numbers Assume

ParameterDefault ValueNotes
Term (Years)18Time horizon
Principal5000Starting investment or loan amount
Annual Return / Rate6Expected rate of return or interest
Compounding12How often interest compounds
Monthly Contribution300Regular deposit or payment

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does college cost in 2026?
Average 4-year public university: $11,000/year in-state tuition. Private university: $40,000+/year. With housing and fees, total 4-year cost ranges from $60,000 to $200,000+.
What is a 529 plan?
A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account for education expenses. Contributions grow tax-free and withdrawals for qualified education expenses are tax-free federally and in most states.
How much should I save monthly for college?
To cover $80,000 in college costs in 18 years at 6% growth, you need to save approximately $250/month starting from birth.

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ℹ️ Free Tool This calculator is provided for educational purposes. Consult a financial advisor before making major financial decisions.

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