Education
Study or Work
Going back to study costs more than tuition — while you study, you also give up income. This tool adds those two costs together and compares them with the higher income the qualification could unlock, so you can see how long the investment takes to pay back.
Assumptions used
- Run the comparison to see the assumptions applied to your numbers.
About this tool. The financial picture depends almost entirely on two guesses: the income gain the qualification really delivers, and how long you will earn it. Treat the numbers as one input into the decision — alongside whether studying is something you actually want to do. Nothing you enter is stored.
Worked example
A realistic scenario, already filled in. Open it, then change one number at a time to see what actually moves the result.
Two years of study against staying in work
Fees of 12,000 a year, two years out of the workforce at 38,000, and 52,000 afterwards over a 25-year outlook. The tool shows the break-even and how long the gain takes to arrive.
Open this example in the tool → The numbers live in the link, so you can bookmark it or send it to someone.
Frequently asked questions
What is the break-even point?
The number of years of the higher income needed to repay the fees plus the income you gave up while studying. A shorter break-even is better, and one longer than your outlook means the numbers do not add up.
Should I count income I would earn while studying part-time?
Yes, as income rather than as a cost. Enter the net amount you would actually keep after tax and expenses, otherwise the comparison will overstate what studying costs you.
The financial result is close. What decides it?
The parts the model cannot see: whether you would enjoy the subject, whether the qualification is actually required for the work you want, and how your sector hires.
How reliable is the expected income after studying?
Only as reliable as your research. Use a realistic range rather than the best figure you found, and treat the highest number as a scenario to test, not as a plan.