2024-2025 School Bus Fee Increases Across Major Cities
With the new school year approaching, major cities in Turkiye see a significant rise in school bus service fees. Here’s a breakdown of the updated costs.
As the 2024-2025 school year approaches, parents in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are facing increased school bus service fees. The rise in prices reflects the ongoing challenges of inflation, transportation costs, and the overall economic climate in Turkiye. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the new fees and what parents need to know.
Istanbul School Bus Fees
Istanbul has seen a significant increase in school bus fees for the 2024-2025 school year. The Istanbul Chamber of Service Vehicle Operators reported a 16% hike in fees. This increase comes after calls for a 40% rise due to higher costs of spare parts, insurance, and fuel.
New Rates in Istanbul:
- 0-1 km: ₺17,379 (up from ₺14,486)
- 1-3 km: ₺18,612 (up from ₺15,512)
- 3-5 km: ₺20,106 (up from ₺16,756)
- 5-7 km: ₺20,961 (up from ₺17,470)
- 7-9 km: ₺22,104 (up from ₺18,418)
- 9-11 km: ₺25,596 (up from ₺21,332)
- 11-13 km: ₺29,466 (up from ₺24,551)
- 13-15 km: ₺30,951 (up from ₺25,796)
- 15-17 km: ₺33,408 (up from ₺27,840)
- 17-19 km: ₺35,325 (up from ₺29,441)
- 19-21 km: ₺37,593 (up from ₺31,689)
- 21-23 km: ₺39,150 (up from ₺32,625)
- 23-25 km: ₺40,671 (up from ₺33,895)
Additionally, the fee for guide personnel has been set at 35% of the bus fare, with an extra ₺39.5 per kilometer beyond 25 km.
Ankara School Bus Fees
In Ankara, school bus fees have seen an average increase of 40%. The Ankara Chamber of Service Vehicle Operators, along with ANKESOB, has confirmed the new rates, which are now in effect for the upcoming school year.
Updated Rates in Ankara:
- 0-3 km: ₺16,745 (up from ₺11,930)
- 3-6 km: ₺18,450 (up from ₺13,180)
- 6-10 km: ₺21,320 (up from ₺15,230)
- 10-15 km: ₺24,810 (up from ₺17,720)
The fee for guide services is capped at ₺730, with an additional ₺550 charged for each kilometer over 15 km.
Izmir School Bus Fees
Izmir has also experienced a rise in school bus service fees, with a 20% increase approved by the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Transportation Coordination Center (UKOME).
New Rates in Izmir:
- 0-3 km: ₺16,560 (up from ₺13,770)
- 0-6 km: ₺20,250 (up from ₺16,875)
- 0-10 km: ₺21,690 (up from ₺18,045)
- 0-15 km: ₺25,650 (up from ₺21,375)
- 0-20 km: ₺30,780 (up from ₺25,650)
- 0-25 km: ₺34,245 (up from ₺28,530)
- 0-30 km: ₺37,710 (up from ₺31,410)
- 0-35 km: ₺39,510 (up from ₺32,895)
- 0-40 km: ₺41,940 (up from ₺34,920)
Guide service fees in Izmir are now set at 30% of the base fare.
Key Advices for Parents
- Budget Accordingly: Parents should plan for these new fees as part of their annual education budget.
- Service Quality: Despite the price hike, ensure that the service quality matches the cost.
- Review Options: Consider alternative transportation methods if the fees are beyond your budget.
The 2024-2025 school year brings with it not just new academic challenges but also financial ones. By staying informed and planning ahead, parents can manage these increases effectively.
Source: NTV / Prepared by Irem Yildiz