One in five respondents said they also receive employer assistance, most often in the form of cash or shopping vouchers.

The survey found that sending a child to first grade is the most expensive stage of schooling for families. Basic supplies such as notebooks, pencil cases, stationery and art materials typically cost HUF 20,000–40,000 for 70% of parents, while one in six spends more than HUF 40,000.

Schoolbags are another significant expense: half of parents opt for models under HUF 25,000, while the other half choose those priced between HUF 25,000 and 40,000. Gym shoes, sportswear and other accessories add another HUF 20,000–30,000 to the bill.

“It is not surprising that half of first graders’ parents expect total back-to-school costs of HUF 50,000–75,000, one-quarter estimate HUF 76,000–100,000, and one in seven believe the expenses will exceed HUF 100,000,” said Dávid Gyaraki, deputy managing director of Regio Játék.

For students in grades two through four, the financial pressure eases. Half of parents spend HUF 20,000–30,000 on basic supplies, one-fifth spend HUF 30,000–40,000, and only one in ten exceeds the HUF 40,000 mark.

Most in this group keep total costs below HUF 50,000, although four in ten expect to spend between HUF 50,000 and 75,000. In upper primary grades, costs drop further as parents typically buy durable, ergonomic schoolbags and reuse them for several years.

Most families do their back-to-school shopping in August, with 60% making purchases that month, 25% starting in July, and 15% spreading purchases throughout the year.

Gyaraki advised families to invest in quality schoolbags, stationery and sports equipment, which can be used for several years and reduce long-term costs. The survey also found that one in five parents receives some form of employer support for back-to-school expenses, most often cash or vouchers.

The start of the school year also brings renewed sports routines for children. Three-quarters of lower primary pupils and two-thirds of upper primary students participate in sports at least once a week.

Swimming, dance and soccer are most popular among younger children, while volleyball, basketball and track and field rank high among older students.

As children get older, training frequency increases, with younger students typically attending one or two sessions per week and older students training three or four times weekly.
 

*********************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters

Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal we’re grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.