School Expense Surge 2026: Rising Costs Hit Enrolments Hard
The school expense surge has hit families hard as the new academic year begins on April 1. Parents now face higher costs for books, uniforms, and transport. As a result, many delay shopping or reduce spending on education.
Prices continue to rise across all categories. However, incomes remain limited for many households. Therefore, families struggle to keep up with these growing expenses.
Rising Costs Burden Families
Textbook prices have increased by Rs100 to Rs500 across most grades. In addition, notebooks and registers now cost much more than before. For example, practical notebooks for matric classes range from Rs1,500 to Rs2,500.
Stationery items have also become expensive. Geometry boxes now cost between Rs500 and Rs1,000. Meanwhile, calculators for students reach up to Rs5,000. Similarly, uniforms cost Rs3,500 to Rs5,000, while school bags can go up to Rs7,000.
Transport costs have seen the biggest jump. After fuel price hikes, many transporters doubled their fees. A service that once cost Rs3,000 now ranges between Rs6,500 and Rs7,000.
Rising Costs Burden Families
The school expense surge has started to affect school admissions. Many institutions report fewer new enrolments this year. In particular, middle school admissions among girls have dropped sharply. Dropout rates after primary education are also increasing. As a result, concerns about access to education continue to grow.
Private schools have raised both admission and monthly fees. Low-cost schools charge around Rs1,500 per month. Meanwhile, mid-range schools charge up to Rs5,000, and elite schools demand even higher fees. Some schools require parents to buy books and uniforms from specific shops. This rule limits options and increases financial pressure.
Education experts link these issues to inflation and policy changes. However, they stress the need for urgent support. Without action, many students may lose access to education.
