LMS cost calculator (free): yearly cost and cost per learner by pricing model
The short answer
An LMS costs whatever its pricing model makes your headcount cost. Per-active-user pricing suits small, variable audiences; per-seat or seat-band pricing is predictable but charges for people who never log in; flat plans are cheapest until you pass their user cap. Compare yearly cost, cost per learner and three-year cost including set-up.
1. Your learners
2. Prices you were quoted (edit the starting figures)
| Pricing model | Per year | Per learner / year | Per active learner / year | 3 years incl. set-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per active user, per month 90 active users × 12 months | ₹5,40,000 | ₹3,600 | ₹6,000 | ₹16,20,000 |
| Per seat, per year 150 seats | ₹3,75,000 | ₹2,500 | ₹4,167 | ₹11,25,000 |
| Flat plan with a user cap within the 200-user cap | ₹1,50,000 | ₹1,000 | ₹1,667 | ₹4,50,000 |
| Bodhih LMS: Growth (up to 200 seats) published annual seat band, excluding GST | ₹2,90,000 | ₹1,933 | ₹3,222 | ₹8,70,000 |
On these figures the lowest yearly cost is Flat plan with a user cap at ₹1,50,000 (₹1,000 per learner).
Estimates only, excluding tax. The three generic models use the figures you enter; the Bodhih row uses its published seat bands. Ask every vendor for minimum users, contract length and add-on prices (portals, SSO, storage) before comparing.
How the calculator works
Each row turns a pricing model into a yearly figure for your learners:
- Per active user per month = price × (people × share active in a month) × 12.
- Per seat per year = price × people with an account.
- Flat plan = the plan price, if your headcount is within its user cap.
- Bodhih LMS = the published annual seat band your headcount falls in (excluding GST).
- Three-year cost = yearly cost × 3 + one-time set-up or migration.
What to ask every LMS vendor before comparing
Headline prices hide the terms that decide the real cost.
- Minimum number of users or minimum annual value.
- Contract length and price rises at renewal.
- Whether SSO, SCORM 2004, client portals, extra storage and reporting are included or add-ons.
- Set-up, migration and training fees.
- How an "active user" is counted, if you pay per active user.
Questions people ask next
How much does an LMS cost per user?
It depends on the model and your headcount. Published entry prices checked in October 2026 range from free plans for 5 users to about $7 per user a month for 100 users (iSpring Learn Business), and annual seat bands such as Bodhih LMS at ₹99,000 ($1,490) for up to 50 seats. Use the calculator with the quotes you receive.
Is per-active-user or per-seat pricing cheaper?
Per-active-user pricing is cheaper when a small share of people log in each month. Per-seat pricing is cheaper and more predictable when most people use the LMS every month, for example during compliance training.
What hidden costs should I expect with an LMS?
Set-up and migration fees, add-ons (SSO, client portals, storage, advanced reports), minimum user counts, multi-year contracts and content you must buy or build.
Does the calculator store my numbers?
No. Everything runs in your browser.