Student Loan Reality Check

See what your loans will actually cost you each month, how much of your paycheck they'll take, and when you'll be done paying. Adjust the numbers below.

Total loan amount$35,000

$5k

$200k

Or type an exact amount:

Interest rate5.5%

12%

Expected starting salary$55,000

$25k

$200k

Or pick a common major:

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How we calculate these numbers

Monthly payments are calculated using the standard amortization formula: M = P[r(1+r)^n]/[(1+r)^n-1], where P is principal, r is monthly interest rate, and n is total months. Take-home pay is estimated at 70% of gross salary (a rough average accounting for federal and state taxes plus FICA). Rent is estimated at 30% of take-home, and groceries at $400/month — national averages that vary by location. Interest rates shown as presets reflect recent federal Direct Loan terms published by the U.S. Department of Education. Major salary data is based on median early-career earnings from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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College Cost Estimator

Before you borrow, find out what college will actually cost you after financial aid. Compare school types and see net price by income bracket.

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This tool uses public data from federal sources. Results are estimates — confirm details with schools directly.