College Net Price Calculator

Sticker price is the published cost of attendance (tuition + room & board + books). Net price is what you actually pay after grant aid and scholarships are applied. At private colleges, average grant aid is so large that net prices can be lower than in-state public university tuition for middle-income families.

Most colleges discount their sticker price heavily through institutional grants. Private colleges may publish sticker prices above $60,000 but have average net prices of $25,000–$35,000 for families earning $48K–$75K. This is why applying to private colleges with strong aid programs can cost less than flagship public schools for many students.

Apply to schools with strong need-based aid (especially private colleges with large endowments). Apply for every scholarship you qualify for. Consider community college for the first 2 years then transfer — can save $30,000–$50,000. Living with parents saves $8,000–$13,000/year. File FAFSA as early as possible after October 1 for priority aid consideration.

Need-based aid (Pell Grants, most institutional grants) depends on family income. Merit-based aid (academic, athletic, artistic scholarships) depends on achievement and is available at any income level. Many schools provide both — strong grades or test scores can increase your total aid package even for higher-income families.