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Tools → College Planning

College Planner

Understand your college savings. Make your own decisions. Take control of your future.

Project your 529 savings against future college costs, and model student loan payoff strategies.

529 Savings Projector

Child's current ageyears
0years17years
10 years until college
Current 529 balance$
$0$500,000+
Monthly contribution$
$0$5,000+
Annual contribution increase%
0%15%
Step up your monthly contribution this % each year
Expected annual return%
1%12%
Tuition inflation rate%
1%10%
Today's cost: $27,000/year

Projection

Projected 529 balance
$82,838
at college start in 10 years
Estimated 4-year cost
$189,560
inflation-adjusted
Savings gap
$106,722
To close the gap: $885/month additional contribution needed
Consider opening a 529 plan
Most states offer a tax deduction for 529 contributions. Earnings grow tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.
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How this is calculated

We project the future cost of college (inflated tuition over 4 years), grow your 529 savings toward it, and estimate aid eligibility.

The steps

  1. Inflate today’s annual cost to each college year: cost × (1 + education inflation)^years.
  2. Grow your 529 balance + monthly contributions at your expected return to the start of college.
  3. Estimate the Expected Family Contribution from income and assets to gauge need-based aid.

Assumptions

  • ~5% education inflation; the return and contributions you enter.

Good to know

  • Aid formulas are simplified; actual awards vary by school (and FAFSA changes).

Related resources

Educational disclaimer: All content on WealthSerene.com is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Projections and calculations are illustrative — actual results will vary based on market conditions, your specific situation, and many factors outside this tool’s scope. Always consult a qualified financial professional for advice specific to your situation. View full disclosures →

College cost projections use historical tuition inflation averages (5% default). Actual costs vary widely by institution. This tool does not account for financial aid, merit scholarships, or work-study. Consult your school's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.