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Two paths, lifetime math.

Earn-while-you-learn vs. degree-first — 10 years, side by side.

Apprenticeship

01 / EARN WHILE YOU LEARN
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College

02 / DEGREE FIRST
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$
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Two paths, ten years.

Enter both paths — wages, costs, raises — and see the cumulative math side by side.

Last reviewed: October 2026.

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These education tools provide estimates and planning help for general purposes only — not academic, financial, tax, or legal advice. Verify important decisions with your school, the IRS, or a qualified professional. Tools are provided as-is, without warranties. Read the full disclaimer.