Impact of Inflation on Educational Expenses of Low-Income Students in Pakistan

Rising consumer prices have increased the cost of schooling in Pakistan, yet little is known about how inflation is experienced by students least able to absorb it. This study examined the impact of inflation on the educational expenses of low-income students in Pakistan.A cross-sectional survey was administered to 100 students from households earning PKR 50,000 or less per month. The questionnaire measured perceived inflation impact, educational expense burden, and academic disruption, and recorded monthly spending on six education heads two years ago and at present.Total monthly educational spending rose from PKR 9,200 to PKR 14,200 (54.3% increase), with the sharpest increases in internet and digital resources and in transport. Perceived inflation impact strongly predicted expense burden (β = .71, p < .001), and expense burden was the strongest predictor of academic disruption (β = .50, p < .001). Rural students and students in the lowest income group reported significantly heavier burdens. The most common coping responses were cutting spending on books (68%), taking part-time work (52%), and borrowing (47%).The findings suggest that inflation acts as a hidden barrier to educational continuity and point to targeted fee relief, transport support, and digital-access subsidies.