Lunch at uni in France just got a lot cheaper.
French universities have begun offering €1 meals to all students, regardless of income, in a measure aimed at easing financial hardship. The three-course meal had usually cost €3.30 and the €1 rate had previously only been available to students with low incomes or receiving financial aid.
Student unions had been pushing to extend the €1 rate to all students.
For Alexandre Ioannides, an 18-year-old student in Paris, the change will sharply cut his monthly canteen bill.
“I come here 20 times a month. That’s about €60. Whereas now, I’ll pay €20,” he said, adding the savings would go towards “going out or eating at a restaurant”.
The policy is aimed at reducing financial strain for students in France. A survey by a student union organisation in January found 48 percent had gone without food for financial reasons and 23 percent did so several times a month.
About 667,000 students benefited from the €1 lunch scheme in 2024, a 5.3 percent increase from the previous year, according to university restaurant operator Crous. It said about 46.7 million meals were served at the discounted and standard €3.30 rates.
The government is preparing for demand to rise, with higher education minister Philippe Baptiste promising €120 million in 2027 to support the scheme.
“It is a small internal revolution,” Baptiste said. He has promised to oversee the programme so it does not lead to an excessive workload for canteen staff or a decline in food quality.
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