Private School Bus Fees Exceeded Official Tariffs
School bus tariffs announced as the new educational term approaches are putting parents in a difficult situation. High figures demanded particularly in private schools even surpass taxi costs over short distances.
While the school bus fees determined prior to the 2026-2027 academic year strain parents' budgets, the demand for figures far exceeding the official tariffs in private schools draws attention.
Educational Term and Official Tariffs
The 2026-2027 academic year will begin on Monday, September 14. Bus fees are determined each term by the IMM Transportation Coordination Center.
In the new academic year, official bus fees vary between 39,970 liras and 93,000 liras.
Price Increases in Private Schools
Decisions made by UKOME are not binding for everyone. Bus fees requested in private schools can reach two to three times the announced official figures.
While 105,000 liras is requested for a route in Istanbul that should normally cost 65,000 liras, fees reaching up to 200,000 liras are demanded for long distances.
Statements from the Sector Representative
Günhan Sınar, President of the Chamber of Bus Operators, stated that these high fees in private schools are demanded under the name of special service fees.
Sınar noted that this situation victimizes both parents and bus employees.
Taxi Comparison on Short Distances
Private school bus fees, which reach difficult-to-attain amounts on long distances, produce surprising results on short distances as well.
While the UKOME tariff increases for a specific route in Istanbul, the daily fee demanded for the same distance in some private schools exceeds the cost of a taxi.