Scholarship Net Cost Calculator
Example: Sticker cost per year: 40000 $ · Scholarship / grant per year: 15000 $ · Years of school: 4 years
| Total net cost of degree | $100,000 |
| Net cost per year | $25,000 |
| Total scholarship value | $60,000 |
| Share of cost covered | 37.50% |
Worked example
A school with a $40,000 sticker price offers a $15,000-a-year scholarship. That drops your net cost to $25,000 a year, or $100,000 over four years, with the scholarship covering 37.5% of the price and providing $60,000 in total value. Comparing this net figure across schools — not the scholarship headline — is what reveals the truly cheapest option.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bigger scholarship always the better deal?
No. A $25,000 scholarship at a $55,000 school leaves a $30,000 net cost, while a $10,000 scholarship at a $28,000 school leaves only $18,000. Always compare net cost, not the size of the award, which schools sometimes inflate by first raising the sticker price.
Do scholarships renew every year?
Not always. Some are one-time; others require maintaining a minimum GPA or full-time enrollment to renew. This tool assumes the annual amount applies each year, so verify the renewal terms and enter a lower figure for years the award might drop.
Are scholarships taxable?
Scholarship money used for tuition, fees, and required course materials is generally tax-free, but amounts used for room, board, or other expenses can be taxable. Check IRS guidance if a large award exceeds your qualified education costs.
Should I subtract loans too?
This tool shows net cost after gift aid — scholarships and grants you do not repay. Loans are not aid in the same sense; they must be repaid with interest. Treat the net cost here as the amount you must cover from savings, income, or borrowing.