The gap is a starting point, not a verdict
A projected gap years out just means there's time to close it — raise the monthly contribution, adjust the target schools, or plan to fill part of it with aid, scholarships or loans. Recalculating with a higher contribution here shows exactly how much that closes it. For the simpler "how much do I need to save" version, see the College Savings Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Does this calculate financial aid eligibility?
No — federal and school financial aid is worked out through FAFSA and CSS Profile formulas that weigh income, assets and family size in ways far beyond a simple calculator. This models the savings and withdrawal side only: what your 529 is likely to cover, and what gap (if any) is left for aid, loans or other savings to fill.
Why does the return drop once college starts?
Most 529 plans shift to a more conservative "age-based" allocation as the child nears college, and money withdrawn for a given year shouldn't be riding the stock market a semester before it's spent — this models that with a separate, more conservative growth rate during the withdrawal years.
Why does college cost grow faster than general inflation?
Tuition, room and board have historically risen faster than the broader CPI for decades, though the gap has narrowed recently. Adjust the college cost inflation input to whatever assumption you trust for the specific schools you're targeting.
Last updated: June 2026