Spain and Portugal families face rising back-to-school costs

Families in Spain and Portugal are facing significant financial pressure as the new school year approaches. In Spain, estimates for back-to-school costs vary widely; while the Cetelem Observatory suggests an average of 478 euros per child, the OCU estimates figures as high as 1,300 euros for public schools and over 3,400 euros for private institutions. Key expenses include technology such as tablets and laptops, textbooks, transport, and school meals.

In Portugal, a guide by Dr. Finanças indicates that a year in public school can cost families approximately 1,493 euros, whereas private education costs can exceed 8,000 euros annually. These costs encompass stationery, sports equipment, and extracurricular activities.

Beyond direct costs, the return to school impacts student health and logistics. Reports highlight concerns regarding scoliosis in growing children and the challenges of implementing new nutritional standards for school meals. Additionally, the timing of the academic start varies across Spanish autonomous communities, with Navarra starting as early as September 4 and regions like Andalusia and Castilla y León starting around September 15.