Article 47 of the 2026 Finance Act ends APL housing benefit for students from non-EU/EEA/Swiss countries without a recognised scholarship. The effective date is 1 July 2026 — no postponement has been announced.
Who loses APL?
- Student from a non-EU/EEA/Swiss country
- Without an officially recognised scholarship
- Currently receiving APL with a valid student residence permit
Who keeps APL?
- EU/EEA/Swiss students — protected by European law
- Non-EU students with a recognised scholarship (Campus France, government grant)
- Students with another type of residence permit (employed, family)
Financial impact
| City | Average monthly APL 2025-2026 | Estimated annual loss |
|---|---|---|
| Paris | €280–310/month | €3,360–3,720 |
| Lyon / Bordeaux | €165–215/month | €1,980–2,580 |
| Medium city | €120–160/month | €1,440–1,920 |
What to do?
- Check if your scholarship can be officially recognised by your institution
- Apply for emergency aid from the CROUS or your university's social fund
- If the CAF made an error, contest the decision by registered letter within 2 months