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Each year, salaries rise by only 5-6%, while school fees jump 10-15%. Over time, this widening gap leaves families struggling as education costs outpace income growth
The total cost of schooling goes beyond tuition, including transport, uniforms, books, technology charges, and coaching. (Representative/Shutterstock)
A recent circular from schools announcing a 12% hike in fees has left parents worried and upset. Many middle-class families say they are finding it increasingly difficult to manage household budgets as school fees rise much faster than their salaries, turning education costs into one of their biggest financial burdens.
School Fees Rising Faster Than Salaries
The rapid increase in school fees compared to salaries suggest that families are left with little opportunity to save or plan for the future. Parents are increasingly feeling that a significant portion of their hard-earned money is going towards school fees instead of their own needs.
Education is a commitment that cannot be postponed or reduced, unlike purchases or holidays. As a result, families make difficult choices, such as cancelling holidays, avoiding new purchases, and leaving savings accounts untouched to ensure school fees are paid on time.
Why School Fees Are Rising Faster Than Salaries
Every year, parents experience the same pattern where salaries may rise by five to six percent, but school fees increase by ten to fifteen percent. Over time, this growing gap becomes significant, and families feel they never benefit from their salary hikes because it is already allocated to school fees.
Balancing Household Budgets Amid Rising Fees
There are no easy solutions for managing household expenses amidst rising school fees, but certain strategies can help:
- The cost of education is expected to rise by 10–12 percent annually and needs to be planned for much like rent or housing EMIs. Setting aside money in a dedicated fund each month can help cushion the impact when the next fee hike is announced.
- The total cost of schooling goes beyond tuition, including transport, uniforms, books, technology charges, and coaching. Families that compare schools only on tuition often realise too late that their actual expenses are significantly higher.
- Caution is needed with fee EMIs and loans. While they ease the burden in the short term, they can turn education into long-term debt. If EMIs consume savings, affordability becomes difficult. Using them only as a last resort helps prevent household finances from being overstretched.
- Greater transparency is essential in fee hikes. Parents have the right to know how increases are implemented and whether they comply with regulations. Collective action through parent associations or raising questions with school management creates accountability that individual efforts often cannot.
September 08, 2025, 17:19 IST
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