College Planning Hub
Everything you need to plan, budget, and pay for college — from freshman year through graduation.
$11,610/yr
Average in-state public tuition
College Board 2024
$43,350/yr
Average private nonprofit tuition
College Board 2024
$18,570/yr
Average net price (private)
After grants & scholarships
~3–5%
Annual tuition inflation rate
Historical average
Planning Guides & Tools
College Cost Comparison
CalculatorBreak down tuition, fees, room & board, and books. Compare public vs. private costs and calculate your actual net price after aid.
How to Read Your Award Letter
GuideAward letters can be misleading. Learn to separate grants from loans, evaluate net price, and compare offers from multiple schools.
Saving for College
Savings529 plans, Coverdell accounts, UGMA/UTMA — compare every college savings vehicle and build a timeline that matches your goals.
4-Year Cost Calculator
ToolProject your total college costs with tuition inflation, housing, and aid estimates. See the full picture before you commit.
College Planning Timeline
9th–10th Grade
- ✓Take rigorous courses (AP, IB, honors)
- ✓Explore career interests and college types
- ✓Start building extracurricular profile
11th Grade
- ✓Take PSAT / SAT / ACT for the first time
- ✓Research colleges and visit campuses
- ✓Open a 529 plan if you haven't already
Summer Before 12th
- ✓Create Common App / Coalition App account
- ✓Work on college essays
- ✓Request teacher recommendation letters
12th Grade — Fall
- ✓Submit Early Action / Early Decision applications
- ✓File FAFSA on October 1 (as early as possible)
- ✓Complete CSS Profile if required by schools
12th Grade — Spring
- ✓Compare financial aid award letters
- ✓Appeal awards if circumstances changed
- ✓Commit to a school by May 1
Don't forget scholarships
Scholarships can significantly reduce what you borrow. Browse 500+ scholarships tailored to your profile.
Find Scholarships →