College Savings Projection Calculator
Project what your current college savings plan may cover and estimate any funding gap.
Instructions
Enter what is already saved and what you can contribute. Monthly and annual contributions may be used together. Results update automatically.
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How a College Savings Projection Works
The projected college-start balance combines current savings, end-of-month contributions, end-of-year lump sums, and the pre-college investment return. At the beginning of each academic year, scholarships reduce the cost and the available fund pays the remainder. The balance then earns the during-college return. Contributions during college are included only when selected.
Because costs rise and withdrawals reduce the amount left to grow, a plan may cover early years but run out later. The table keeps the balance at zero and shows unmet costs rather than displaying a confusing negative fund.
The funding gap is the estimated cost not covered by savings or aid. It is not a recommendation to borrow that amount. Compare grants, lower-cost schools, current income, work, and other resources before borrowing.
College Savings Projection Calculator FAQs
How much will my college savings be worth?
The college-start balance projects current savings and entered contributions using the pre-college return.
What if I stop contributions when college starts?
Leave the continuation box unchecked; new contributions stop at enrollment.
Can I contribute during college?
Yes. Select the continuation option to keep monthly and annual contributions in the model.
How is percentage covered calculated?
It compares savings withdrawals plus scholarships with total projected college costs.
What happens when the fund runs out?
The table shows the available withdrawal, unmet cost, and a zero balance for that and later years.
Does it include room and board?
Yes, along with tuition, fees, books, and other entered expenses.
Can scholarships be included?
Yes. Enter expected total grants and scholarships; they reduce costs before fund withdrawals.
Is the gap what I should borrow?
No. It is an estimate of uncovered cost, not a borrowing recommendation.
Credits
College Savings Projection Calculator
Version: 1.0
Author: Calculator team