What Are €1 CROUS Meals?
Since 2020, the French government has guaranteed a full meal for €1 at university restaurants (Restaurants Universitaires, or RU) within the CROUS network for grant-holding students. This scheme, renewed and expanded in 2026, represents one of the most tangible financial benefits of holding a student grant in France.
A full €1 meal typically includes a starter, a hot main course with a side dish, a dessert, and a drink. For context, the real cost of this meal before state subsidy exceeds €8. Accessing this scheme can save a student over €1,500 per year when eating lunch and dinner at the RU on every weekday.
Who Qualifies for €1 Meals?
Access to the €1 rate is conditional on grant-holder status. The following student categories are eligible:
CROUS Grant Holders
All students holding a means-tested social grant (BPCS) awarded by the CROUS, regardless of grant level (0bis to 7), automatically receive access to the €1 meal rate. This information is transmitted directly to the Izly system via your National Student Identifier (INE number).
Students in Financial Hardship (Non-Grant Holders)
The CROUS network has maintained and extended access to €1 meals for non-grant students experiencing documented financial hardship. To qualify:
- Schedule an appointment with the social welfare officer at your regional CROUS.
- Bring supporting financial documents (bank statements, parents' tax records, situation certificate).
- If your situation is recognised, temporary access to the €1 rate is granted for the academic year or until your circumstances improve.
| Category | Meal Price 2026 |
|---|---|
| CROUS grant holder (all levels) | €1.00 |
| Non-grant student in recognised hardship | €1.00 |
| Non-grant student enrolled in higher education | €3.30 |
| Teaching and administrative staff | €5.20 |
| External visitors (subject to conditions) | Variable |
The Izly App: Your Key to University Restaurants
Izly is the official payment system of the CROUS network. Without an active Izly account, you cannot access university restaurants or CROUS cafeterias. Here is how to set up and use your account.
Creating Your Izly Account
Step 1: Account activation
After completing your university registration, you will receive an e-mail from the CROUS containing your Izly credentials at the address provided during enrolment. If you do not receive it within 10 business days, contact your regional CROUS directly or visit izly.fr to create an account manually using your INE number.
Step 2: Download the app
Izly is available for free on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android). Log in using the credentials received by e-mail.
Step 3: Top up your balance
Even though grant-holder meals cost only €1, your account must carry a sufficient balance. Top up via:
- Debit or credit card directly in the app
- SEPA bank transfer to your dedicated Izly account
- CESU vouchers (Chèque Emploi Service Universel) if your family sends them
A recommended starting balance of €10 to €20 at the beginning of the week prevents any disruption.
Paying at the University Restaurant
At the checkout, you have two options:
- QR code: The app generates a QR code that the cashier scans. Make sure your phone has enough battery.
- NFC: On compatible terminals, simply tap your phone (contactless payment).
Your grant status is detected automatically — the €1 or €3.30 rate appears without any additional action on your part.
University Restaurants in France: What You Need to Know
A Network of Over 900 Dining Outlets
The CNOUS (National Centre for Student and Campus Life) operates more than 900 dining outlets across France, including:
- University Restaurants (RU): large canteens with full service and self-service cafeteria format, capacity of 200 to 2,000 meals per service.
- CROUS Cafeterias: smaller format offering sandwiches, cold dishes, and drinks at different pricing.
- Mobile points of sale: CROUS kiosks or food trucks present on some campuses.
Food Quality and Menu Variety
University restaurant food has improved substantially since 2020, contrary to their dated reputation. Today you will typically find:
- A traditional menu with a hot daily dish (meat or fish), vegetables, cheese, and dessert.
- Vegetarian options, mandatory at all RUs since 2022.
- Halal or kosher menus at select establishments (varies by city).
- Regional speciality dishes depending on the CROUS region.
- Access to fresh fruit and vegetables via stalls or vending machines on many campuses.
Typical University Restaurant Hours
| Service | Usual Hours |
|---|---|
| Lunch | 11:30 am – 2:00 pm |
| Dinner (selected RUs) | 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm |
Some restaurants offer lunch only. Verify specific hours on the Izly app for your establishment.
How to Find Your Nearest University Restaurant
Several tools help you locate university restaurants:
1. The Izly App (recommended)
The "Find a restaurant" tab in Izly shows an interactive map of all CROUS dining outlets near you, with real-time hours and daily menus. This is the most practical and up-to-date option.
2. Your Regional CROUS Website
Each regional CROUS has its own website listing all restaurants:
- Paris: crous-paris.fr
- Lyon: crous-lyon.fr
- Bordeaux: crous-bordeaux.fr
- Toulouse: crous-toulouse.fr
- Lille: crous-lille.fr
3. The National CNOUS Portal
Cnous.fr provides a national map of all university restaurants across France.
International Students: What You Specifically Need to Know
International students in France have the same access rights to university restaurants as French students. Here are the key points specific to your situation:
Grant status and the €1 rate
If you hold an Eiffel grant or a recognised French state scholarship, your grant status is automatically transferred to the CROUS system. However, if you hold a grant from a foreign government or a private foundation, you will need to present supporting documentation to the CROUS for your eligibility to be assessed.
Language barrier at the checkout
Daily menus are often displayed in French only. The Izly app does not always offer automatic translation. Familiarise yourself with basic French culinary vocabulary (boeuf / beef, volaille / poultry, poisson / fish, végétarien / vegetarian) to select your meal confidently.
Dietary requirements and allergens
Since 2021, all CROUS university restaurants must display the 14 major allergens on their menus. Gluten-free or intolerance-adapted menus are available at a selection of restaurants — ask the restaurant manager directly for your specific needs.
Comparing the RU With Other Budget Eating Options
The university restaurant is not your only affordable eating option in France. Here is a quick comparison:
| Option | Average Cost Per Meal | Nutritional Quality | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| RU CROUS (grant holder) | €1.00 | Good | Good |
| RU CROUS (non-grant) | €3.30 | Good | Good |
| Supermarket (prepared meal) | €3–5 | Variable | Average |
| Fast food restaurant | €8–12 | Low | Good |
| Home cooking | €2–4 | Very good | Variable |
| Traditional restaurant | €12–20 | Very good | Low |
For grant holders, the €1 RU is without question the most financially advantageous option. For non-grant students, combining the €3.30 RU with home cooking optimises your food budget.
Official Resources
- CNOUS — Restaurant Map: cnous.fr
- Etudiant.gouv.fr — University Restaurants: etudiant.gouv.fr
- Izly App: izly.fr
- Messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr — CROUS Grants: messervices.etudiant.gouv.fr