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APL for students: how does it work?

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You’re finally free in your new home! Well... freedom comes with the caveat "I have to pay my rent" and that's less fun. But to help you with this expense, you may be able to get APL for your student accommodation. Is this the first time you’ve claimed this benefit? No need to panic, just follow the Nemea Appart'Etud guide. It's not that hard, you’ll see!

 

What exactly is APL?

You may already know this, but the CAF offers several types of allowance to help you with housing. If you didn't already know that, now you do. Do you pay for your own accommodation like a responsible adult? The CAF may be able to help you with this.

The APL is one type of housing assistance offered by the Caisse d'Allocations Familiales. Calculated according to the amount of your rent, the surface area of your flat and also your resources if you work alongside your studies. There are few criteria to meet, but you can check that you are eligible: 

  • You are a French citizen or a foreigner with a residence permit
  • You are a tenant in decent accommodation
  • The owner is not a member of your family
  • Your resources are below a certain limit
  • Your parents are not subject to ISF wealth tax (presumably if they are multi-millionaires, they could pay your rent for you! The cheapskates).
  • You are renting accommodation listed with the State.

 

Applying for APL for student accommodation

Whether you’re living in a student residence or private rental, you’ll need to apply for APL. Are you used to your parents doing all the administrative paperwork? Come on, this is your chance to impress them with your internet skills! Because yes, you guessed it, the APL application is entirely online (not so bad, you can avoid the awkward conversation and queues).   Go to the CAF website and use the simulator or fill out an application for housing assistance.

 

ALP FAQS

 

APL: as a student, how much do I get?

There is no specific or fixed amount for students. The amount allocated is defined according to different criteria such as the city, the living area and your resources.

 

When do I receive my APL?

Housing assistance cannot be applied retroactively, so be sure to apply early! Once your application has been accepted, you will receive the amount every month, but one month in arrears. In short, in October you will receive your APL for the September rent. Hence the importance of taking the necessary steps quickly! The saying "time is money" has never been more true!

 

I live in a student residence, am I entitled to APL?

As soon as your accommodation has been approved, you can apply for APL. Check with your landlord to make sure this is the case, and you'll get a little help with the rent.