What are the options?

Khaleej Times reached out to several principals of schools in Dubai to find out what parents can do if they are struggling to keep up with payment of school fees. Although the stipulations vary from school to school — with no one-size-fits all approach — all were of the consensus that in genuine cases, agreements can be met to alleviate the issue.

Typical scenarios:

> Illness related: If parents or family members are suffering financial hardship due to reasons relating to illness (short-term, long-term or terminal), parents simply have to show proof of documentation. In such cases, schools can waive off between 50-100 per cent of the fees. One principal of a CBSE school said such cases arise about two to three times a year at the school. > Loss of job: If a parent loses his/her job, they can alert the school. They may be asked to present the supporting documentation as evidence. After the parent is back in full term employment, they will be asked to settle 50 per cent of the arrears. They will usually be given three months time (or until the end of term) to settle dues. > Fees concession form: This is the normal, legal route of the school. If parents do not qualify for any of the above criteria but are financially burdened (ie earn a low salary or have several children studying at once) the parents can apply for a concession on fees. It is usually about 40 per cent. This is only valid if all previous arrears are cleared. > Habitual non-payment: For parents who make a habit of not paying school fees on time, circulars will be issued. One principal said some parents often take this route of not paying throughout the year and simply make a small payment at the end of the year. These circulars are sent out as deterrents. As per KHDA rules, the school has the right to withhold exam results from the family.