Estimated budget

A realistic budget for a comfortable life: plan on 900 euros per month

Average cost of living (per month)

Housing* 200-600
Food 200
Utility bills and housing assurance 50-100
Lyon TCL Transport card 25

More details can be found on Lyon Campus website by clicking on this link.

*The CAF (Caisse d'Allocations Familiales) - run by the French government – gives subsidies (Allocation Logement) to people who need it the most, in order to help them pay for their rent. By applying for CAF, you can save up to 50% on your accommodation every month, depending on its size, how much you earn, and how much your rent is. Only the CAF decides how much money is given and whose application will be accepted.
In many cases the CAF offers aid to international students who meet the following 3 criteria:

  • students who have their name on a rental contract in France (students who live in Airbnb flats cannot apply for CAF),
  • students with a low income or whose parents earn a low income,
  • Your landlord cannot be your relative,

Students can only apply once they are in Lyon - it is not possible to apply before your arrival in France or before the rental contract has started. The application is submitted online and the Student Services Office will provide you with any additional information after your arrival in France.