A survey has suggested that parents and guardians of children are bearing a greater financial burden in back-to-school costs this year than last year.
The total back-to-school spend in 2025 is €1,450 for primary school parents and €1,560 for secondary school parents.
This is an increase for primary school parents of €364 compared to 2024, and €159 for secondary school parents.
The research, which was carried out by the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU), noted an increase in costs this year for parents of both primary and secondary school students.
Around 730 parents responded to the survey.
The research found that a third of parents said that they get into debt covering back-to-school costs, and the average amount in 2025 is €376.
That is compared to a quarter last year, who took on an average of €368 of debt.
35% of parents also said that they are forced to deny their children at least one back to school item.
Half of respondents said that new gym gear is the item that they are most likely to skip buying.
ILCU chief executive David Malone said the findings reflect the increasing cost of living pressures being felt across Irish society.
"While the fact that one in three are taking on debt is significant, the research also shows that more and more households are sacrificing to pay for back to school, particularly when compared to recent years.
"Family holidays (37%) are still the biggest sacrifice, up 6% on 2024, with almost one in five (18%) sacrificing food compared to 13% in 2024," he said.
Mr Malone added: "This overall trend of increasing costs and the accumulation of debt is further reflected in the 2025 findings concerning the methods of payment used for back-to-school supplies.
The ILCU also found that the number of parents taking out loans to fund back to school costs has tripled this year to 12%, up from 4% when compared with last year.
"General monthly income (74%) remains the top method of payment but has dropped from 80% in 2024.
"There has been a significant increase in those using savings, 42% in 2025 which is a 7% increase on 2024, and the number of parents taking out credit union loans has tripled from in 2024," Mr Malone said.
"This year's research also clearly illustrates how parents are having to take a considered approach to costs and be further prepared to sacrifice.
"Our role goes beyond that of the financial, and I would encourage anyone seeking assistance to engage their local credit union who continue to support communities across Ireland," he added.
