Nearly half of parents aren't aware of the new Free Primary Schoolbooks Scheme.
The survey from the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU), found 49% of parents have not been informed of the scheme by their school, and a number of those parents (39%) are intending to purchase school books outright this year.
The research, which was carried out in June, found more parents are worried about back-to-school costs this year, compared to last year.
72% of parents say covering the costs of back to school is a financial burden, compared to 66% in 2022.
However, costs have dropped in the past year. Parents are spending just over €1,152 on back-to-school costs for primary school pupils - €43 less than last year.
There was also a fall in costs for secondary school students with parents paying almost €1,288 - down €230 euro from last year.
However, the survey also found that the reduction in costs is partly due to parents cutting back on extra-curricular activities.
David Malone, CEO, Irish League of Credit Unions says some parents are taking out loans to cover back-to-school costs.
"The average level of debt is €306, with 17% of parents having debts of over €500.
"We are also seeing the same number of parents getting into debt compared to last year (29% both years)".
