The Question Every Mom Eventually Asks
I remember the first time I truly asked myself this question: “Magkano ba talaga ang gastos sa pag-aaral ng bata?” Not just tuition, not just enrollment fees — but everything that comes with it. As moms, we often focus on the big numbers and forget the many small ones that quietly add up throughout the school year. Whether your child is in public or private school, the cost of sending a child to school in the Philippines is something every family feels deeply.
Public School Costs: Affordable, But Not Free
Public school tuition may be free, but school life definitely isn’t. In a typical public school setup, families still spend on uniforms, shoes, bags, school supplies, projects, and daily baon. On average, a public school parent can expect to spend around ₱2,000 to ₱4,000 at the start of the school year for uniforms and supplies alone. Add monthly baon, contributions for class projects, printing requirements, and occasional school activities, and the monthly cost can reach ₱1,000 to ₱3,000 per child. It’s manageable, but it requires planning — especially when expenses pop up unexpectedly.
Private School Costs: The Bigger Commitment
Private school expenses are more straightforward but heavier. Tuition alone can range from ₱30,000 to ₱150,000 per year depending on the school. When broken down monthly, that’s roughly ₱3,000 to ₱12,000 or more. On top of tuition are miscellaneous fees, books, uniforms, field trips, and extracurricular activities. I’ve learned that private school budgeting isn’t just about affording tuition — it’s about being ready for continuous expenses throughout the year. Even small things like costume days or special projects can affect the monthly budget.
The Hidden School Expenses Moms Know Too Well
Some costs don’t appear on enrollment forms but hit hard during the school year. Printing projects at the last minute, buying materials for group work, school events, transportation for activities, and even extra snacks during exam weeks all add up. Then there are field trips, which are wonderful for kids but require extra budgeting. These hidden expenses are why many moms feel like school costs are unpredictable — because they often are.
How We Manage School Expenses as a Family
What helped us was breaking school costs into monthly estimates instead of treating them as “surprises.” We set aside a small school fund every month, even during vacation months. That way, when expenses come up, we’re prepared. I also learned to buy supplies in bulk when prices are low and reuse items whenever possible. Budgeting for school became less stressful once we accepted that it’s not a one-time expense — it’s a year-long commitment.
Choosing What’s Right for Your Family
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to schooling. Public schools offer affordability and community, while private schools offer structure and additional resources. What matters most is choosing what fits your family’s values, budget, and child’s needs. A good education isn’t defined by how much you spend — it’s defined by support, involvement, and consistency.
A Gentle Reminder for Moms
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by school expenses, you’re not failing. You’re parenting in a time when costs are rising and expectations are high. The real cost of sending a child to school in the Philippines isn’t just financial — it’s emotional and mental too. And every effort you make, big or small, already counts.
