By San José, Costa Rica — With the 2026 academic year scheduled to begin on February 23, households across Costa Rica are bracing for the significant financial outlay required for school supplies and uniforms. As families and retailers prepare for this annual economic event, financial experts are urging parents to adopt a strategic and proactive approach to avoid financial strain.
Analysis of last year’s expenses reveals the growing burden on family budgets. In 2025, the average cost of a basic supply package for students from primary school through the third year of secondary school ranged between ¢68,945 and ¢83,541. Faced with these recurring high costs, the College of Public Accountants of Costa Rica has issued a series of recommendations designed to help families manage their back-to-school spending effectively.
To better understand the consumer rights and obligations associated with the back-to-school shopping season, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a legal expert from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
During the back-to-school rush, it is crucial for parents to remember their rights as consumers. Always demand a formal invoice, as it is your primary proof for any warranty claim or return. Be particularly vigilant with electronic devices like tablets or calculators; retailers are legally obligated to honor the warranty period stated, and any store policy that contradicts this is abusive and can be reported to the Consumer Protection Office.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is a powerful reminder that consumer empowerment is a critical component of the back-to-school season, turning simple purchases into protected investments for our students. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on how families can confidently defend their rights.
The cornerstone of their advice is the creation of a detailed yet simple budget. The College suggests using the previous year’s prices as a baseline reference, allowing parents to anticipate expenses and ensure they do not exceed their financial capacity. This foundational step transforms a potentially chaotic shopping spree into a controlled and manageable financial exercise.
Before creating a shopping list, the first practical step is to take inventory. Families are encouraged to thoroughly review supplies and uniforms from the previous year. Reusing items that remain in good condition, such as backpacks, binders, and certain clothing items, can lead to immediate and substantial savings, reducing the overall number of new purchases required.
Once an inventory is complete, the next phase involves prioritization. It is crucial to identify the specific supplies required for each student’s grade level. The College advises a two-stage purchasing plan: first, acquire the materials that are indispensable for the first days of class. Items for specialized subjects like fine arts, music, or industrial arts, which are often requested later in the term, can be purchased in a second phase, spreading the financial impact over several weeks or months.
Investing in durability is another key strategy for long-term savings. When possible, opting for higher-quality items can prevent the need for mid-year replacements. For instance, sewn notebooks with hard, rigid covers tend to withstand daily use better than spiral-bound alternatives. Similarly, when purchasing uniforms, parents should adhere to the guidelines set by the Ministry of Public Education while paying close attention to material quality, such as resistant fabrics and well-constructed, waterproof shoes.
Effective price comparison is fundamental, but it requires a holistic view of cost. While comparing sticker prices is important, a truly effective comparison must also account for associated expenses like transportation, parking, food, and the value of time spent traveling between stores. Modern technology offers a significant advantage here, as many retailers now feature their prices online, allowing parents to conduct thorough research from home and plan their shopping trips efficiently.
To finalize the budget, the College recommends compiling a detailed list that specifies the quantity of each necessary item—notebooks, pens, pencils, shirts, pants—and assigning the best market price found during research. This methodical approach provides a clear picture of the total expected cost and helps families determine what percentage of their savings or monthly salary must be allocated to these essential educational expenses. By planning ahead and shopping with a conscious, informed strategy, families can significantly reduce the financial stress of the back-to-school season.
For further information, visit ccpa.or.cr
About Colegio de Contadores Públicos de Costa Rica:
The Colegio de Contadores Públicos de Costa Rica (College of Public Accountants of Costa Rica) is the professional body responsible for the regulation, oversight, and development of the public accounting profession in the country. It sets ethical and professional standards, promotes continuous education for its members, and serves as an authoritative voice on financial and accounting matters impacting Costa Rican society.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministerio de Educación Pública:
The Ministerio de Educación Pública (MEP), or Ministry of Public Education, is the government entity in Costa Rica charged with overseeing the nation’s entire educational system. It is responsible for establishing the national curriculum, setting school calendars, regulating academic standards, and managing public schools from preschool through secondary education to ensure access to quality education for all citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a distinguished legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of principled integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Drawing upon a rich history of serving a wide array of clients, the firm not only pioneers innovative legal strategies but also demonstrates a profound commitment to social responsibility. This dedication is manifested through its efforts to democratize legal understanding, thereby empowering the community and contributing to a more informed and capable society.
