Bengaluru school fee row: ₹7.35 lakh a year for Class 1 goes viral; parents debate rising costs

Bengaluru, September 1, 2025: A screenshot of an international school’s fee structure in Bengaluru has sparked a city-wide debate on private education costs. The viral post claims ₹7,35,000 per year for Grade 1 under the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), excluding expenses such as uniforms, books, transport, and extracurricular activities.

Key numbers from the viral fee sheet

• PYP (Grades 1–5): ₹3,67,500 per term (half-yearly) → ₹7,35,000 per year.
• One-time admission fee: ₹1,00,000 (non-refundable).
• Application fee: ₹1,000.
• Senior grades (11–12): posts online claim fees can reach ~₹11 lakh/year.
• Exclusions: Uniforms, books, transport, meals, and some activities are typically charged separately.

Why it’s trending

The post ignited arguments on affordability and choice. Some users said high fees are limited to elite schools and reflect optional preferences; others called the pricing excessive and urged stronger fee regulation for private institutions.

Sample reactions (paraphrased)

• “Premium schools exist; families choose based on capacity—no need to generalize.”
• “Education is a basic right—₹7.35 lakh for Class 1 is unreasonable.”
• “Will the government rein in private-school pricing?”
• “This looks like paying for a brand more than outcomes.”

What parents should check before paying

1. Total cost of ownership: Add tuition + admission + technology/lab + transport + meals + activities + exam fees.
2. Refunds & withdrawals: Understand non-refundable components and timelines.
3. Escalation clauses: Ask how much fees can rise year-on-year.
4. Value & outcomes: Class size, teacher experience, labs, languages, arts/sports, college counseling (for senior school).
5. Scholarships/aid: Many IB/intl schools offer limited bursaries—ask early.
6. Regulatory notices: Check the school’s recognition, affiliation (IB/CBSE/ICSE), and any state advisories.

About IB PYP (Grades 1–5)

The IB Primary Years Programme focuses on inquiry-based learning, transdisciplinary themes, and continuous assessment. Costs at international schools vary widely by city, campus facilities, and staffing.

Post that started the debate

 

Note: Figures above are based on a viral social media post. Families should verify the official fee schedule directly with the school’s admissions office before making decisions.