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What this calculator does
Enter your major, total debt, and the salary you would earn without a degree. The calculator estimates years to pay off the debt.
The math
Annual salary premium = estimated starting salary for major − high school grad salary. Years to pay off = total debt ÷ annual premium.
Worked example
An Engineering degree with $50,000 debt and a $35,000 high school wage has about a $35,000 premium, so payoff is about 1.4 years.
Why this matters
Big purchases create years of follow-up costs. This calculator helps you weigh the true price before you sign.
Methodology and transparency
This page publishes the exact formula used to compute the result, so you can verify it in a spreadsheet or check the assumptions against your own situation. The worked example uses the tool default inputs; change any number and the result updates live in your browser. No data is sent or stored.
Common questions
Are starting salaries accurate?
They are rough static estimates. Actual salaries vary by school, location, and experience.
Should I skip college?
It depends on major, cost, and career goals. High-debt, low-income majors take longer to justify.