Search by subject?
Type your subject here
School costs: this is what parents pay themselves.
Parents pay themselves for some school materials. Which ones are those exactly? And how does it work if the school provides them and asks a contribution from parents? In this article you read what the rules are in primary and secondary education.
Long-lasting and personal materials
Parents pay themselves for prescribed materials that last longer than a year and are personal. These include for example an atlas, dictionary, agenda, calculator, notebooks, pens, compass, folder, tools, gym clothes, and practical clothes.
Loan or payment by school
Sometimes the school provides one or more materials that parents normally pay for. The school then loans these materials or buys them for the students. In that case, the school can ask for a contribution through the voluntary parent contribution. You are not required to pay this bill. It may be that you have to buy the needed materials yourself in another way.
Voluntary parent contribution
Many schools ask for a voluntary financial contribution from parents. This parent contribution is really voluntary. That means the school may not exclude your child from activities and materials. Even if you do not pay, your child can join. The voluntary parent contribution is an important source of income for many schools. Without this contribution, fewer activities can often be organized.
Financial help with school costs
Do you have trouble paying for school costs? You can get financial help in different places. You can apply at Sam& for all children or contact the social service of your municipality.
Related Subjects
Compensation for students 18 years and older
You receive child benefit until your child turns 18, then a compensation.
Read moreTrouble paying school costs?
The bill for school supplies can add up. Read what you can do.
Read moreThese costs must be paid by the school
Which costs does the school pay and how does this work? You can read about it here.
Read moreParent contribution digital learning tools
Who pays for the digital learning tools at school?
Read more