How does a college planning calculator estimate the cost of college?

A college planning calculator estimates the cost of college by taking into account various factors such as tuition and fees, room and board, textbooks and supplies, transportation, and personal expenses. The calculator uses current costs and projected increases in these expenses to calculate an estimated cost of attendance for the number of years you plan to attend college. It may also factor in the rate of inflation and any financial aid that you may be eligible for, such as scholarships and grants, to arrive at a more accurate estimate of your net cost. Overall, a college planning calculator provides an estimate of the total cost of attending college, including both direct and indirect expenses, to help you plan and prepare for the financial aspect of college education.