Low Cost Private Schools: How Low Cost Really Are These?

Abstract

Private schools account for a high and rising share of school enrolment at the elementary level in India. Among various types of private schools, low cost private schools (LCPS) are a segment which charge relatively low fees compared to other private schools. However, the students attending such schools are typically from households in low economic strata and with poor educational levels. This commentary shows how even the "low" fees charged in such schools account for a substantial share of the earnings of these families, given their limited earning ability. The commentary is based on a primary survey based in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR).

Rethinking Education and Livelihoods in India

“…Private schools charge a wide range of fees, unlike the government schools, which are more homogeneous vis-à-vis fee-structure and provide free education at the elementary level (till class VIII). Low-fee private schools have been regarded as filling a gap in demand for schooling in India since these provide education at low cost to the poor (Endow, 2018, 2019; Tooley et al, 2007, 2010).…”

“…Contrary to expectations, even with free education till the elementary level at government schools, there are costs incurred in the form of examination fees, books and stationery, uniform and private tuition (Chandrasekhar & Mukhopadhyay, 2006; UNICEF, 2014). Similarly, in the ‘low-fee’ private schools, schooling accounts for a large proportion of earnings for families (Endow, 2019).…”

Teaching–learning process in low-fee-private schools: perspectives of parents and school management

“…Other characteristics include relatively lower salaries for teachers; their location in or near underserved areas and a relatively higher percentage of students from lower social classes. Low-fee private schools are low cost only relatively, as for people who admit their kids in these schools, particularly the poor, the cost of such schooling may consume a significant part of their income (Endow 2019;Tooley and Longfield 2016). LFPSs are for-profit private enterprises maintained by private parties, NGO 4 or a local community (Philipson 2008, pp 1).…”