French universities have expanded a subsidized meal program to offer three-course lunches for €1 to all students regardless of their income level. The initiative aims to combat widespread financial hardship as reported by The Guardian.
Previously, the discounted rate was restricted to students receiving financial aid or those documented as having low incomes. Other students typically paid €3.30 for the same university meals operated by Crous.
Alexandre Ioannides, an 18-year-old student living in Paris, explained that the policy change significantly reduces his monthly cost of living. He noted that regular attendance at the canteen previously cost him triple the new rate.
“I come here 20 times a month. That’s about €60. Whereas now, I’ll pay €20,” said Ioannides.
The student highlighted that the money saved from the meal subsidy would be redirected toward other social activities or dining options.
“going out or eating at a restaurant,” said Ioannides.
Data from a student union survey conducted in January revealed that 48% of students in France have skipped meals for financial reasons. Furthermore, 23% of respondents reported experiencing food insecurity multiple times per month.
According to the university restaurant operator Crous, approximately 667,000 students utilized the €1 lunch scheme in 2024. This represents a 5.3% rise from the previous year, with 46.7 million total meals served across all price tiers.
Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste has pledged €120 million in funding for 2027 to sustain the program. He characterized the expansion as a major shift in how the state supports student nutrition.
“It is a small internal revolution,” said Baptiste.
The minister confirmed he would monitor the program to prevent potential issues regarding the quality of food or the pressure placed on university kitchen staff.
Dining and Cooking