How does the Rutgers net price calculator work?

I'm trying to figure out what my financial situation would look like if I go to Rutgers. Does anyone know how the net price calculator works and if it's accurate for estimating costs?

The Rutgers net price calculator is a tool designed to estimate your potential financial aid and out-of-pocket expenses based on your family's financial situation. It calculates the estimated cost of attendance including tuition, fees, room, board, books, and other expenses, and then subtracts the estimated amount of financial aid you might qualify for.

In order to use the tool effectively, you will need some information close at hand. This includes your family's income before taxes, your family's federal tax return (if possible), W2 forms, and records of other untaxed income. The more accurate the information you provide, the more accurate your net price calculation will be.

It's important to remember that this is just an estimate, and the actual financial aid you receive may differ based on a variety of factors, including the financial aid package offered by the university after they consider your overall application. It's typically most accurate for traditional incoming college freshmen who are dependent on their parents. Non-traditional students or students who have unusual circumstances may come across inaccurate estimates from this tool.

Remember also that financial aid availability can change from year to year, and the same is true for tuition and other costs. So even though the net price calculator can give you a rough estimate, the result should be interpreted as a guide but not a promise or guarantee of any specific financial aid award. It's a first step that can help you understand your potential financial investment, but you should also reach out to Rutgers Financial Aid Office for the most accurate information.