How much do schools cost in South Africa?
As we look towards 2025 and beyond, understanding and preparing for the escalating costs of education in South Africa is more crucial than ever for parents. With education inflation outpacing salary increases and the Consumer Price Index (CPI) by 2.5% to 3% annually, planning ahead becomes essential to manage these expenses effectively. Let’s dive into the numbers and strategies to help parents forecast and mitigate the financial challenge of funding their child’s education.
Read: Who is Responsible for the Collection of School Fees in South Africa?
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🎓 Projected School Fees Costs
Based on an 8% annual education inflation rate, let’s update the figures to reflect the future costs parents might face from 2025 onwards.
Primary and High School Education Costs (2025-2038)
- Public Primary School: The cost in 2025 is projected at R41,900 and is expected to rise to R77,500 by 2038.
- Public High School: In 2025, the cost could be about R61,900, reaching R114,500 by 2038.
- Private Primary School: Fees in 2025 are estimated at R122,600, with a steep increase to R226,800 by 2038.
- Private High School: Starting at R180,100 in 2025, the cost is predicted to escalate to R333,400 by 2038.
University Education Costs (2025-2038)
- The average cost for one year at a university in 2025 is expected to be R95,700, and by 2038, it could soar to R177,200.
These projections highlight the importance of starting to save as early as possible to combat the rising costs of education.
Top 10 most expensive school in south africa
Here’s a rundown of some of the most expensive schools in South Africa—places that charge top rand for a high-quality, private education. These fees reflect not only the academic programmes but also the added facilities, boarding, and activities that come with being a part of these institutions. Let’s keep it straightforward without the glamour:
1. Hilton College
- Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
- Annual School Fees: R397,660
- Boarding: Boarding only
- Total Cost: R397,660
Hilton College is known as South Africa’s priciest school. With an all-boarding setup, the school offers exclusive facilities in a scenic location. While the education and campus facilities are notable, it’s clear you’re paying a premium for the Hilton brand and all it stands for.
2. Michaelhouse
- Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
- Annual School Fees: R368,000
- Boarding: Boarding only
- Total Cost: R368,000
Another all-boarding boys’ school, Michaelhouse, comes in a close second. With impressive facilities, it has a reputation for academics and sports. Yet, like Hilton, part of what you’re paying for is tradition and a certain social standing rather than educational outcomes alone.
3. Kearsney College
- Location: Botha’s Hill, Durban
- Annual School Fees: R240,900
- Boarding Fees: R109,230
- Total Cost: R350,130
Kearsney offers both boarding and day options, with views from Botha’s Hill that almost justify the cost. The fees reflect the full package: academics, sports, and activities. But at these prices, some might question if there’s real value beyond its prestigious reputation.
4. St John’s College
- Location: Houghton, Johannesburg
- Annual School Fees: R206,768
- Boarding Fees: R145,844
- Total Cost: R352,612
St John’s is one of Johannesburg’s most recognised schools with top fees to match. Known for its strong academics, the costs are bolstered by its well-maintained grounds and heritage. It’s a solid school but carries a premium you’d expect for its status.
5. Roedean School
- Location: Parktown, Johannesburg
- Annual School Fees: R203,607
- Boarding Fees: R156,480
- Total Cost: R360,087
Roedean is a leading girls’ school in Parktown, with fees that rival some of the boys’ schools. They focus on academics, arts, and community, but you’re paying a lot for the school’s brand and tradition as much as the education itself.
6. Bishops Diocesan College
- Location: Rondebosch, Cape Town
- Annual School Fees: R199,650
- Boarding Fees: R141,780
- Total Cost: R341,430
Located in Cape Town’s southern suburbs, Bishops offers both day and boarding options with a high fee to match its reputation. While the campus and facilities are top-notch, the fees may seem excessive for what you get compared to similar schools.
7. St Mary’s School, Waverley
- Location: Waverley, Johannesburg
- Annual School Fees: R189,880
- Boarding Fees: R145,590
- Total Cost: R335,470
As one of the leading girls’ schools in Johannesburg, St Mary’s offers a range of activities and solid academics. However, the fees are on the high end, especially considering similar options in the area.
8. Crawford College, Sandton
- Location: Sandton, Johannesburg
- Annual School Fees: R189,570
- Boarding: N/A
- Total Cost: R189,570
With no boarding fees, Crawford’s high tuition is strictly for day school. It’s well-known for a progressive curriculum, but some might find it hard to justify the cost without boarding or extra amenities factored in.
9. St Alban’s College
- Location: Lynwood Glen, Pretoria
- Annual School Fees: R187,020
- Boarding Fees: R141,900
- Total Cost: R328,920
St Alban’s, a boys’ school in Pretoria, offers strong academics and decent facilities. The fees are high but expected for the environment provided, though still expensive for a secondary school.
10. Clifton School
- Location: Morningside, Durban
- Annual School Fees: R186,426
- Boarding Fees: R114,000
- Total Cost: R300,426
Clifton combines day and boarding, with fees that reflect both options. While it’s not the most expensive on the list, it’s still a significant amount to pay for a school outside of the ‘elite’ circle.