Search by subject?

Type your subject here

Home > Knowledge base > School costs and parental contribution > School costs: this is what parents pay themselves

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

Dossier

Compensation for students 18 years and older

You receive child benefit until your child turns 18, then a compensation.

Read more
Dossier

Trouble paying school costs?

The bill for school supplies can add up. Read what you can do.

Read more
Dossier

These 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 more
Dossier

Parent contribution digital learning tools

Who pays for the digital learning tools at school?

Read more

Contact Us

We are happy to help you with all your questions.