New research from Hibernian Life and Pensions shows that by the time a child graduates from third level, their education will have cost almost €28,000.
The study shows that a child starting school next week will cost parents a staggering €27,784 by the time the finish their education.
This figure is based on them attending state schools and colleges only, and does not take into account any possible grinds taken.
Throughout a child's primary and secondary education, parents will pay for over 20 school trips, 52 shirts or blouses, 39 skirts or trousers, 26 jumpers and 26 pairs of shoes.
Costs increase when children enter second level and the highest costs emerge on entry into third level. This survey does not include the cost of accommodation for third level students.