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Net Price by Income: What You'll Actually Pay
Sticker price is not what most families pay. Pick a college and your family income band to see the average net price after grants and aid, across 5,020 schools — the real number to plan around.
Choose a college and your family income band to see the average net price after grants and aid — and how it compares across income levels.
Understanding College Costs
Net Price, Explained
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Sticker Price Is Not What You Pay
Net price — total cost minus grants and scholarships — is the real number. For lower-income families it is often a fraction of the published tuition.
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Lower Income Often Means Lower Net Price
Well-funded colleges meet more need. At some schools the lowest income band pays close to nothing — occasionally less than zero once grants exceed billed costs.
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Run the Official Net Price Calculator
These are reported averages by income band. For your family's exact estimate, use each school's own net price calculator before deciding.
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Compare Net Price, Not Tuition
A private college with a high sticker price can cost less than a public one after aid. Always compare schools on net price for your income band.
