Cost Analysis in Practice Cost Analysis Templates (CAPCATs)
Researchers at the CAP Project have created semi-automated templates to assist decision-makers and researchers in conducting economic evaluations of education programs. Below, download blank templates and pre-filled demos of completed cost analyses.
Ready-to-Use Templates
The semi-automated Excel templates below will assist you in conducting a cost analysis of an education program. They will serve as your data entry and analysis tools, calculating adjustments needed and providing summary metrics such as total costs, average costs per site and per program participant, and incremental costs. They are designed to allow cost estimates for treatment and control conditions in the same template. They also report a variety of cost breakdowns including costs by site, by resource category, by start-up or ongoing phase, and by fixed/variable/lumpy quantities. Click on the button below for a chart of similarities and differences that may help you choose which template to use.
If you need help using a template, submit a Help Desk Request - but try the built-in instructions first!
Basic Cost Analysis Template
CAPCAT 1.0 Basic is a semi-automated Excel template in which you can document your ingredients data and prices, and calculate costs. Accommodates a single-year program and comparison program.
Multi-Year Cost Analysis Template
CAPCAT 1.2 Plus is a semi-automated Excel template in which you can document your ingredients data and prices, and calculate costs. Accommodates a multi-year program (up to 5 yrs) and comparison program.
(Use this for Online Module 2 assessment)
Cost-effectiveness Analysis Template
CAPCAT 1.3 Advanced accommodates up to 5 treatment and 5 comparison conditions, programs up to 10 years, and a variety of geographical price adjustments. A variety of cost breakdowns are presented.
Demo Cost Analyses
Download the examples of completed cost analyses below to see the CAP Project cost analysis templates in action.
Demo Cost Analysis: Reading Recovery
Click the button below to download a cost analysis of Reading Recovery and a comparison program, showcasing CAPCAT 1.2.
Demo Cost Analysis: Beyond the Building
Click the button below to download a cost analysis of Beyond the Building, an online program for middle and high schools, showcasing CAPCAT 1.2.
Demo CEA: Teacher Professional Development
This demo illustrates use of CAPCAT 1.3 to compare PD costs for 2 (fictitious) math programs, including illustrating geographical adjustments at the ingredient level.