Graduate School ROI Calculator
Calculate the return on investment of graduate school. Compare degree types and find your break-even point.
Reviewed May 25, 2026. DegreeCalc calculators are educational planning tools; verify final tuition, aid, transcript, loan, and employment decisions with official school, federal, servicer, or employer records.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you calculate graduate school ROI?
Graduate school ROI considers total program cost, opportunity cost (lost wages during school), and the salary increase after graduation. The formula is: (Lifetime Extra Earnings - Total Investment) / Total Investment. A positive ROI means the degree pays for itself over your career.
What is opportunity cost in graduate school?
Opportunity cost is the salary you forgo while attending school full-time. For example, if you earn $60,000/year and attend a 2-year MBA program, your opportunity cost is $120,000 — on top of tuition. This is often the largest cost of graduate school.
Which graduate degree has the best ROI?
Medical degrees (MD) typically have the highest lifetime ROI due to high salaries, but the longest break-even period (10-15 years). MBAs from top schools often break even in 3-5 years. Masters degrees have lower costs and faster break-even. The best choice depends on your specific field and career goals.