Financial Aid Gap Calculator
Calculate the gap between total cost of attendance and financial aid received to determine out-of-pocket costs.
Financial Aid Gap
$17,200
Financial Aid Gap vs Tuition and Fees
Formule
## How to Calculate the Financial Aid Gap The aid gap is the difference between what college costs and what your financial aid covers. This is the amount you must pay from savings, income, or additional loans. ### Formula **Total Cost = Tuition + Room & Board + Books** **Aid Gap = Total Cost - (Grants + Loans + Work-Study)** **Net Price = Total Cost - Grants/Scholarships (free money only)** The net price is a better measure of true cost since loans and work-study must be repaid or earned.
Exemple Résolu
COA: $43,200 ($30K tuition, $12K room/board, $1.2K books). Aid: $18K grants, $5.5K loans, $2.5K work-study.
- 01Total cost: $30,000 + $12,000 + $1,200 = $43,200
- 02Total aid: $18,000 + $5,500 + $2,500 = $26,000
- 03Aid gap: $43,200 - $26,000 = $17,200
- 04Net price (free money only): $43,200 - $18,000 = $25,200
- 05Aid coverage: $26,000 / $43,200 = 60.2%
Questions Fréquentes
How do I close the aid gap?
Options include parent PLUS loans, private loans, payment plans, outside scholarships, or choosing a less expensive school.
Should I count loans as "aid"?
Loans reduce the immediate gap but must be repaid with interest. Focus on the net price (after grants only) for true affordability.
Can I appeal my financial aid package?
Yes. Contact the financial aid office with documentation of special circumstances or competing offers from other schools.