Education for a child - up to 10,000 euros per year: is it really worth paying so much?

The cost of private education in Lithuania can be substantial, with annual tuition fees ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 euros or more. These figures often do not include additional expenses for meals, learning materials, and extracurricular activities, prompting parents to question the value proposition compared to free state schools.

Despite the high costs, interest in private education is growing. Data from the State Data Agency shows that 25,400 children, or 7.3% of all general education students, were enrolled in non-state schools for the 2024-2025 academic year. While student numbers have increased in both state and private sectors over the past five years, private school administrators report a noticeable rise in parental interest recently.

School leaders observe a shift in parental motivations. Previously, private schools were often seen as an alternative, but now many families consciously select them for their specific educational philosophies and environments. This indicates a move towards seeking a particular type of learning experience rather than simply an option outside the public system.

Parents are increasingly seeking schools that offer both strong academic preparation and a positive emotional environment for their children. The emphasis is shifting towards a holistic approach where a child's well-being, sense of security, and feeling of being seen are as important as academic achievements. This desire for a balanced education, where children are happy, confident, and eager to learn, is driving the demand for private schooling.