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).