Understanding France’s ‘back to school’ grant for 2026
Money is intended to help fund children's school expenses, with payments of up to €466 per child
The back-to-school allowance helps low-income families to pay for items such as classroom equipment
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The 2026 version of the allocation de rentrée scolaire (ARS, back-to-school allowance) is set to be paid to families in mainland France on August 18.
The amount increased by 0.8% for this year's payout, with a maximum payout of €466.02 per child depending on their age.
Up to three million families in France were eligible for the grant from the Caf (Caisse d'allocations familiales) or the MSA (Mutualité sociale agricole) in 2025, which is paid to lower-income parents.
It is intended to help pay for children's school expenses and is paid per child.
Who can get the allocation de rentrée scolaire (ARS)?
The ARS is:
Means-tested to the household’s income
Available to families with children aged between six and 18 who are enrolled in a public or private school or registered with a distance learning organisation
Not available to children who are being educated at home
For the start of the 2026 school year (September), eligible parents must have children who:
Children already enrolled in CP (the first year of compulsory schooling in France, for children turning six) are also eligible.
If the child is following an apprenticeship the aid should be paid if their salary does not exceed 55% of the guaranteed minimum wage.
What is the maximum household income to qualify for the ARS?
The ARS is means-tested, but maximum household income levels depend on the number of school-age dependent children living there.
For the start of the 2026 school year, the net household income taken into account will be that from the year 2024.
The income ceilings are as follows:
Families with one child: €28,956
Two children: €35,638
Three children: €42,320
Four children: €49,002
Per extra child: add €6,682 to the previous ceiling amount (so €55,684 for five children etc.)
You may be entitled to a partial allowance if your income only just exceeds the threshold.
What will the amount of the ARS be in 2026?
In 2026, the amount paid will be:
Children aged 6 to 10: €426.87 each (compared to €423.48 in 2025)
Young people aged 11 to 14: €450.41 (compared with €446.85)
Teenagers aged 15 to 18: €466.02 (compared with €462.33)
How can I apply for the ARS?
If you already receive the ARS or other Caf benefits, and your child will be aged between six and 15 on December 31, 2026, there is nothing you need to do – the payment should be automatic.
If your child is starting CP (the first year of primary school) in 2026, but will not turn six until 2027, you need to send the Caf a certificat de scolarité issued by the school.
If your child is between the ages of 16 and 18, you need to declare that they are still in school or an apprenticeship via the Mon Compte section at caf.fr.
Those who are not already recipients of Caf benefits can create an online account and download an application form (scroll to Parentalité, Allocation de rentrée scolaire).
