The Price of Learning: Households' Educational Expenses in Kazakhstan

Educational inequality is a prominent topic in educational research, with numerous studies highlighting the role of financial disparities in shaping access to educational opportunities. A key factor contributing to this inequality is the ability of families to allocate financial resources toward education. Although governments often position themselves as the primary providers of educational funding, families still need to contribute significantly. This study examines the structure and dynamics of household educational expenditures in Kazakhstan, focusing on the factors that influence the magnitude of these expenses. Utilizing data from the Bureau of National Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the research investigates household spending patterns in relation to socio-demographic characteristics. To address the nested nature of the data and better capture differences across household types, a multilevel regression model is applied. As one of the first studies to explore household spending on education in Kazakhstan, this research provides valuable insights into the economic behaviors that shape educational investment at the family level.