In Iran, the tuition fees for both government and non-government schools have reached alarming levels, prompting widespread complaints from parents. Many families struggle to afford these costs, forcing some children to drop out of school altogether.
Recently, the tuition fees for non-profit schools for the academic year 1403 were announced, revealing increases driven by economic conditions and rising living expenses. Reports indicate that these fees range from 10 to 80 million tomans, with some non-profit institutions charging significantly more.
Even public schools are not exempt from this trend, demanding between 8 and 15 million tomans for student registration, particularly for preschoolers. According to Ahmed Mahmoudzadeh, Deputy Minister of Education, nearly 40% of non-profit school fees fall between 10 and 20 million tomans, while 34% charge between 20 and 30 million tomans. Additionally, 14% of schools have fees ranging from 30 to 40 million tomans, and about 6% charge between 40 and 50 million tomans. A smaller percentage of schools, approximately 5%, charge between 50 and 60 million tomans, with only 1% exceeding 70 million tomans.
Parents have raised concerns about unauthorized tuition increases by non-profit school administrators, who have reportedly raised fees by 5% to 40% before the new academic year begins. These increases were communicated to parents even before the previous school year had concluded. This situation raises critical questions about the Ministry of Education’s response to such violations and whether these high expenses truly enhance educational quality in non-profit schools.
Many parents opt for non-profit schools due to the poor educational standards in public institutions. However, the high tuition fees place enormous financial strain on families. Each school seems to independently set additional fees, further complicating the situation. For instance, the tuition for an elementary school girl has skyrocketed from 35 million tomans last year to 72 million tomans this year. These fees do not include extra costs like transportation, which can add another 30 million tomans.
Public schools also impose high fees for registration and various services, despite legal stipulations that prohibit them from charging parents. In Tehran, enrolling a child in a public preschool can cost 13 million tomans, with an additional requirement of 1.5 million tomans or more to receive a report card.
The financial burden of both for-profit and public schools disproportionately affects low-income families, disrupting their economic stability and leading to many children being unable to continue their education.
According to Iran’s constitution, education should be free through the end of secondary school. However, non-profit schools tied to government officials have turned this ideal into a troubling reality. The rising cost of living, including educational expenses, has exacerbated social issues, contributing to an increase in divorce rates and family instability.
As families grapple with economic pressures, children are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of these circumstances. Mental health issues, academic struggles, and social challenges can arise, with consequences that may last for years.
The government’s lack of attention to the economic hardships faced by families, coupled with soaring living costs, has left many unable to meet even their basic needs. This situation has intensified psychological and social pressures, leading to increased familial separations.
In this context, students are not spared from the fallout. They endure mental and social challenges that can hinder their development and future prospects, illustrating the urgent need for action to address the educational crisis in Iran.
