Education ROI & Career Decision Calculator
Use this calculator as a family to “force” everyone to view the decision first from a financial literacy perspective and reduce emotion in the conversation. Start with the goal, then work backward: What career outcome is the student targeting? If the expected income is similar across schools, what justifies paying dramatically more?
A helpful question to ask your son or daughter is: “What is your goal?” If the answer is “marketing manager,” ask: Why can’t a lower-cost local school deliver the same credential? If lifetime earnings are similar, what is the ROI of the premium price? Also consider alternatives: community college transfer, grants that don’t require repayment, a military academy, or a trade/technical program that can lead to strong income in less time.
Degree & Outcome Data (for ROI assumptions)
Paste links to the sources you’re using for salary/outcome assumptions. This keeps the family aligned on facts.
1) Total Education Cost
2) Funds Available
3) Career Goal & ROI
4) “Life Happens” Stress Test
Select scenarios that could occur during the first 1–3 years. Gen X families often support both kids and parents.
