One in three parents going into debt over back-to-school costs in 2025, survey finds

Overall, three in five (61%) parents told the survey they believe schools do not do enough to help keep the costs of going back to school down. File picture: iStock

One in three parents say they are going into debt to cover back-to-school costs, with more parents now cutting back on food and other household costs than previous years.

With costs increased in 2025 for both primary and secondary school, the average debt taken on by parents this year amounts to €376.

More than a third (35%) of parents report they were forced to deny their children at least one back-to-school item, most commonly new gym gear.

The Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) has today published the 2025 results of its annual Back to School survey, tracking the costs of children returning to school.

Primary school parents are expected to spend on average €1,450 to cover back to school costs, and secondary school parents an average of €1,560, according to the survey of almost 730 parents.

This is an increase for primary school parents of €364 compared to 2024, and €159 for secondary school parents.

The 2025 survey found:

• After school-care is the top expense for primary school at €197;
• 78% of schools ask for a ‘voluntary’ contribution;
• 36% of households are now carrying debt of over €500.

Overall, three in five (61%) parents told the survey they believe schools do not do enough to help keep the costs of going back to school down.

The research also found that 64% believe that back to school costs are a financial burden, a slight increase on 62% in 2024.

Almost two in three (59%) parents feel pressured to buy branded clothing, footwear, and other items for their children, up 6% from 2024.

A further 64% said that they shop online for supplies, with 59% doing so for better deals.

This year’s back to school survey findings are reflective of the broader pressures being felt across society associated with the increasing cost of living, according to David Malone, ILCU chief executive.

“While the fact that one in three are taking on debt is significant, the research also shows that more and more households are sacrificing to pay for back to school, particularly when compared to recent years.” 

Family holidays (37%) are still the biggest sacrifice, up 6% on 2024, with almost one in five (18%) sacrificing food compared to 13% in 2024.