Core Viewpoint - The rising tuition fees of international schools in China are causing disillusionment among middle-class parents, who previously viewed these schools as a guaranteed investment for their children's future success [1][4][15]. Group 1: Tuition Fee Increases - Many international schools in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai have announced significant tuition hikes, with some schools increasing fees by as much as 35% [5][9]. - For instance, the tuition for high-grade levels at the Dewei British International School in Shanghai has reached approximately 399,750 RMB, entering the "400,000 club" [6]. - Other schools have also raised fees substantially, with increases from 52,000 RMB to 70,000 RMB and from 158,000 RMB to 184,000 RMB [8]. Group 2: Additional Costs - Tuition is only a part of the overall expenses for families, which also include costs for meals, uniforms, extracurricular activities, and transportation, leading to total annual expenses exceeding 430,000 RMB for some families [11][15]. - The average annual fee for school transportation can reach up to 23,000 RMB, and uniform costs can add another 5,000 RMB annually [11]. Group 3: Economic Pressures and School Viability - The international school sector has faced financial challenges, with reports of several schools closing or struggling due to mismanagement and financial instability [22]. - The need for schools to maintain high-quality education while managing rising operational costs has led to a consistent increase in tuition fees [20][24]. Group 4: Changing Perceptions of Education Value - The perception of international education as a guaranteed pathway to elite employment is being challenged by reports of low salaries for returnees, with some graduates earning as little as 8,000 RMB per month [2][31]. - As the value of international degrees diminishes due to oversupply, many middle-class families are reconsidering the worth of investing in international education [27][31]. Group 5: Future Trends in Education Choices - Families are increasingly faced with a choice between returning to mainstream domestic education or investing heavily in prestigious international institutions [33][36]. - The trend indicates a potential bifurcation in educational paths, with some families seeking cost-effective international options in Southeast Asia [34].
中产养娃「销金窟」，又涨价了
3 6 Ke·2025-09-22 02:52