Compare programs on total investment, not sticker tuition. Add mandatory cash costs and foregone earnings, subtract grants and employer aid that are actually confirmed, then model several documented earnings scenarios; if the target earnings difference is not positive, break-even is not reached.
Source: PathGauge evidence review · Current guide and linked primary sources · Reviewed July 16, 2026
Build the cash-cost side
Include tuition, school fees, books, exam charges, tools, software, equipment, travel, and childcare. Subtract only grants, scholarships, or employer aid you have in writing and are eligible to receive; loans reduce upfront cash but do not reduce cost.
Account for time and financing
Estimate earnings you will actually give up during unpaid training and placements. For loans or income-share arrangements, model repayment terms separately so the program price is not confused with the amount ultimately paid.
Use ranges for the earnings side
Run a low, middle, and high scenario based on comparable documented offers—not the occupation median alone. Keep hours, overtime, benefits, taxes, and job-search time explicit rather than burying them in a single salary assumption.
Interpret break-even cautiously
Break-even is arithmetic under chosen assumptions, not a prediction. If target earnings are no higher than current earnings, the calculator should report that break-even is not reached instead of manufacturing a payback period.