Answers for the Data-Driven Student

Our primary data source is the U.S. Department of Education’s **College Scorecard API** and the **IPEDS** (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System). This ensures all figures for tuition, graduation rates, and salary outcomes are based on verified federal reports, updated for the 2026 cycle.

The salary metrics represent the **median earnings** of students who received federal financial aid, measured exactly **10 years after they first enrolled** at the institution. This index provides the most stable long-term look at career momentum.

Yes. Education Guide is 100% free for students, parents, and counselors. We do not charge for "premium" rankings or data access. Our mission is democratizing education data for public benefit.

Net price is the **actual cost** a student pays to attend college for one year after all federal, state, and institutional grants and scholarships are deducted from the published "sticker price."