Find out what it will take to save for college

Paying for college can be expensive, but you can get a head start
by planning ahead.

Need assistance?

Call 866-663-5247 to speak with a Schwab Investment Professional or email us.

Start saving today

Know which college savings plan you want? Open your account now.

Determine how much you need. Use our College Savings Calculator and see the projected cost chart below.
Start saving for college as soon as you can. Whether college is years away or around the corner, start saving to maximize your potential for investment growth. See the savings chart below for an example.
Consider regular contributions. Ongoing contributions to a college savings account—even small amounts—can keep you on track toward your goal.

Projected four-year cost of college
College expenses are expected to rise considerably over the next 18 years.

Years until college	Public (in-state)	Public (out-of-state)	Private
2	$95,500	$152,100	$194,800
4	$107,300	$170,900	$218,900
10	$152,100	$242,400	$310,500
14	$192,100	$305,900	$391,900
18	$242,400	$386,300	$494,700

Source: Annual Survey of Colleges 2008-2009, The College Board. Chart assumes a 6% average annual increase in tuition, fees, books, room and board, and other expenses.

Return to top

Why start saving for college now?
Compounded interest occurs when your earnings are reinvested back into your original investment, causing your overall investment to grow even faster. As a result, Investor A earns more than five times as much as Investor B, who starts 10 years later.

Note: example assumes an annual rate of return of 8% compounded monthly. Inflation, taxes and expenses are not factored in.

Learn more about college savings.
Our college savings webinar can help you get started.

Return to top

(0807-6718)