Student Dropouts as Exam Fees Soar for 2026 Resit Candidates

A sharp increase in School Certificate (SC) and Higher School Certificate (HSC) exam fees has triggered a wave of school dropouts, as families struggle to meet rising costs for the 2026 academic cycle.

While first-time candidates with a 90% attendance record remain exempt from charges, those resitting their exams face a significant financial burden.

In some instances, total costs now exceed Rs 29,000, leaving many parents unable to fund their children’s education in a challenging economic climate.

Hardship and Abandonment

The impact is already being felt on the ground. Didier Moutou, Rector of Bhujoharry College in La Tour Koenig, confirmed that approximately ten SC students at his institution have already abandoned their studies.

“Due to a lack of means, these young people have chosen to work rather than continue their education,” Mr Moutou stated.

He criticised the lack of support measures for repeaters, noting that authorities should have considered exceptions for those forced to pay these additional costs during “delicate” economic times.

The Cost of Failure

The 2026 fee structure shows a marked increase across all levels compared to 2025.

For SC and GCE ‘O’ Level candidates, the entry fee is set at MUR 526, with an additional MUR 3,036 charged per subject.

For HSC and GCE ‘A’ Level students, the fees are even more substantial:

• Entry Fee: MUR 526
• Principal Level: MUR 6,116 per subject
• Advanced Subsidiary Level: MUR 4,280 per subject

Comparative Fee Increases

The financial jump is most evident when comparing year-on-year totals for standard subject combinations.

School Certificate (SC) / ‘O’ Level

Higher School Certificate (HSC) / ‘A’ Level

For many families, this unexpected expenditure represents a “salted” bill that has turned a second chance at education into an unaffordable luxury.

Source: Defi Media