French Housing Subsidy

French Housing Subsidy (APL)


The APL (Aide Pour le Logement) is managed by the CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) and can substantially reduce your monthly rent (up to 200€ deduction).

The eligibility of students for APL depends on various criteria starting with your personal revenue for the previous years.

To apply for APL you must have (among others):

  • a bank account in France

  • your original birth certificate and its translation in French which must be stamped by the French embassy or consulate in your home country.

  • other documents (the list will be given by Alegessec in due time)

If eligible, your APL subsidies will be sent directly to Alegessec which will then deduct the amount from your monthly rent. You are expected to pay your full monthly rent until the subsidies are received.

Please note that the 1st month of your stay is not eligible for APL.

  • For students staying in one of ESSEC residence: Alegessec will provide all the necessary details on how to apply and will also assist you during the procedure. (Details will be sent by Alegessec along with the housing application file.)

  • For students living off-campus: you will have to do the procedure by yourselves. However, CAF has prepared this guide to help you.

CAUTION: we highly recommend that exchange students do NOT rely on French housing subsidy (APL) when budgeting their stay as their eligibility depends on the type of visa they have. Also receiving the funds may be long.


Financial Aid Caf 2017 (1).pdf