The Real Cost of Your Graduate Business Degree

Your graduate degree costs more than just tuition and fees.

A graduate business degree is a big investment – in you. As with any big purchase, it is important to calculate your return on investment (ROI) so you can confidently say you are spending your money wisely.

If you are like most students, you expect your graduate management degree will expand your career options and enhance your earning power. Keep in mind, though, that many other variables determine ROI.

First, you need to calculate the cost of attending a particular school, so be sure to add up all of the costs associated with earning a degree at that school:

• Out-of-Pocket Costs: You'll need to consider the following expenses:
  • Tuition and fees
  • Books
  • Supplies
  • Equipment
  • Relocation and living expenses
• Opportunity Costs: Any income you give up by returning to school.
• Long-Term Costs: Total repayment cost of your student loans, including any accrued and capitalized interest on unsubsidized loans.

How to Calculate ROI
Websites like finaid.org provide sample calculators to perform “what if” scenarios that will identify, based on your input, what ROI, break-even, and Net Present Value (NPV) you can expect from your degree.