How do I calculate my pledge if I’m a student?

Many students have little or no income, and are largely supported by money from family members, the government, or loans.

A giving pledge does not require you to donate any of this funding (although it does commit you to donate from any future income). However, we feel that it's within the spirit of the pledge to donate something regularly if you can, and it is therefore conventional for students to give at least 1% of their spending money.

We define “spending money” as money received for the purpose of spending on items such as food, rent, travel, or personal belongings. Spending money does not include spending on tuition fees.

Of course, students’ situations vary, and some may choose to donate 10% of their earnings if they feel they can do so.