Most families combine savings, ongoing income, scholarships, and student contributions. Use this tool to see how your savings may fit into a realistic college funding plan.
Adjust assumptions to see your plan update in real time.
Savings may help meaningfully reduce future college costs, though ongoing funding will likely still play an important role.
Plan to cover the complete projected cost.
Several realistic approaches families use — alone or combined — depending on cash flow, liquidity, bonuses, or gifting plans.
Large 529 contributions may involve gifting considerations, including annual exclusion limits and special 5-year election rules. Consult your tax advisor regarding your situation.
Many families combine savings with ongoing cash flow during the college years. Here's a year-by-year estimate of what your portfolio may cover — and what may need to come from income, scholarships, or other funding sources.
| Year | Estimated cost | From savings | Out-of-pocket | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Freshman Age 18 | $65,998 | $28,846 | $37,151 | 44% from savings |
Sophomore Age 19 | $69,298 | $30,043 | $39,254 | 43% from savings |
Junior Age 20 | $72,762 | $31,290 | $41,472 | 43% from savings |
Senior Age 21 | $76,401 | $32,589 | $43,812 | 43% from savings |
| Totals | $284,458 | $122,769 | $161,689 |
Coverage assumes a smooth drawdown of your savings across the college years, while remaining balances stay invested conservatively. Out-of-pocket figures represent costs likely covered through income, scholarships, grants, or other resources — a normal part of most college plans.
Projected savings growth and drawdown compared with estimated future college costs.
Portfolio gradually shifts from growth toward stability and capital preservation as college approaches while remaining invested throughout the college years.
For educational purposes only. Not investment advice.
Assumptions are hypothetical and actual market returns, inflation, and college costs will vary.