Parents with children in South Africa’s private schools are bracing for a significant rise in tuition fees in 2025.
This continues a long-standing trend where fee increases outpace inflation, making private education increasingly costly.
For many families, this marks another financial hurdle in an already challenging economic environment.
Above-Inflation Fee Increases
For over a decade, private school fees have risen at an average rate of inflation plus 2.6% annually.
With inflation projected at 5.1% for 2024 by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), private school fees are expected to increase between 6% and 10% in 2025.
Case in Point: Roedean School
- 2024 Fees: R360,087 (tuition and boarding)
- 2025 Fees: R387,093 (7.5% increase)
This trend highlights how private school costs have far outpaced general inflation, significantly adding to the financial burden on families.
Financial Strain Across Income Brackets
While private education has traditionally catered to wealthier households, even high-income families are feeling the pressure:
- Rising Costs: From record-high interest rates to increased fuel prices, living expenses are climbing rapidly.
- Wage Growth Stagnation: South African wages have grown by just 1% over the past seven years, while inflation has surged 40%, reducing disposable income.
As a result, families are reevaluating their budgets and questioning the long-term feasibility of private schooling.
Enrollment Patterns Reflect Stress
Curro Holdings, South Africa’s largest private school network, offers insight into how families are responding to rising fees:
- Enrollment Trends:
- November 2023: 71,809 students
- February 2024: 73,159 students (minimal growth from 73,047 in February 2023)
- Grade-Level Trends: High school enrollments remain steady, but younger grades are showing limited growth, signaling that families with young children may be opting out of private education.
These patterns suggest that financial pressures are influencing decisions about early private education.
Why Fees Are Rising
Private school fees are increasing for several reasons:
- Operational Costs: Inflation affects utilities, staff salaries, and maintenance.
- Quality Standards: Schools aim to maintain their reputation by investing in facilities and specialized programs.
- Market Demand: While fewer families may afford private education, those who do expect high-quality services, which come at a premium.
Options for Families
Parents facing rising fees have limited but important choices to consider:
- Reevaluate Priorities: Some may consider shifting to public or semi-private schools to manage costs.
- Seek Financial Aid: Many private schools offer scholarships or bursaries for eligible students.
- Plan Finances: Flexible payment plans can help spread the cost over time.
Private Schools’ Role in Addressing Costs
To retain enrollment and make private education more accessible, schools may need to:
- Introduce tiered or flexible payment options.
- Expand financial aid programs.
- Reassess operational costs to minimize annual fee increases.
The Future of Private Education
The continued rise in fees raises concerns about the long-term accessibility of private education in South Africa.
As families grapple with increasing financial strain, 2025 could be a turning point for the sector. Schools that adapt by balancing quality and affordability will likely retain more students.
For many families, the choice of private education may hinge on whether institutions can provide meaningful financial relief.
