More in Legal & Catastrophe
What this calculator does
Starting at a community college and transferring can save thousands. This calculator shows the difference.
The math
University debt = university annual cost × 4. CC path debt = CC cost × 2 + university cost × 2. Savings = university debt − CC path debt.
Worked example
A $25,000/year university costs $100,000 over four years. Two years at $4,000 CC plus two years at university costs $58,000, saving $42,000.
Why this matters
Legal and medical bills are stressful and opaque. This calculator gives you a starting number and a concrete next question to ask.
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
Will my credits transfer?
Check articulation agreements between the CC and your target university.
Is the degree the same?
Yes, the diploma usually comes from the four-year university.