Rising Education Costs in India: The Impact of Private Coaching and Schools

In recent years, Indian families have found themselves increasingly burdened by the rising costs of education, particularly in the realm of private coaching and schooling. According to findings from the Comprehensive Modular Survey on Education 2025, which surveyed over 52,000 households from April to June 2025, nearly 40% of secondary school students are now enrolled in coaching classes. This marks a significant uptick from the less than 25% figure noted in primary education, highlighting a shift in parental priorities towards enhancing their children’s academic performance.

This trend is further complemented by a notable rise in private school enrollment, with approximately 38% of students attending these institutions. The financial implications are stark, as households with children in private schools are spending on average ten times more per student compared to those in government schools. As a result, families allocate between 5% and 10% of their monthly expenditures toward educational expenses, a trend that varies significantly across different socioeconomic groups.

Kishore Darak, a prominent educationist with nearly three decades of experience in the field, emphasizes the hidden costs associated with education. While the Right to Education (RTE) Act stipulates that parents should not pay tuition fees, the reality is more complex. For instance, a parent may need to forgo employment to care for younger siblings while their child attends school, leading to what Darak describes as the ‘opportunity cost’ of education. This unseen economic impact adds yet another layer of financial strain on families.

The survey also sheds light on pre-primary education costs, revealing disturbing trends that suggest families are investing heavily from an early age. With parents striving to give their children a competitive edge, the demand for both formal and informal educational resources continues to grow. This situation raises questions about the sustainability of such spending and the economic implications for families as they strive to provide quality education amidst rising costs.

As the educational landscape continues to evolve in India, the challenges posed by escalating expenses remain a pressing concern for families across the nation. With the dual pressures of private coaching and the rising cost of private schooling, many parents are left grappling with the financial reality of securing a better future for their children, all while navigating a complex education system that increasingly seems to favor those who can afford these additional costs.

Source: scroll.in