How to use the Degree ROI Simulator
Search for any US college and see the real numbers: total cost of attendance, median salary 10 years after graduation, and exactly how many years it takes for your degree to pay for itself. Data comes directly from the US Department of Education's College Scorecard — updated annually with real graduate outcomes.
What is Degree ROI?
Return on Investment (ROI) measures how long it takes for your higher earnings to cover the cost of your education. A degree that costs $80,000 and boosts your salary by $20,000/year has a 4-year payback period.
What the data shows
The median US college graduate earns $45,000–$65,000 ten years after enrollment. STEM and business degrees typically show the fastest ROI. Liberal arts degrees often have longer payback periods but strong long-term growth.
Don't forget opportunity cost
While in school, you're not earning a full salary. Factor in 4 years of foregone income (~$30,000–$40,000/year) when calculating true ROI. Community college + transfer can dramatically improve your numbers.