Back-to-school allowance to be paid to nearly 3 million families on August 18

Nearly three million families in France are set to receive the back-to-school allowance (ARS) on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, providing a financial boost for modest households. The allowance, distributed by the Caisses d'allocations familiales (CAF), is designed to assist families with children aged 6 to 18 who are enrolled in school, vocational training, or higher education.

Eligibility for the ARS is based on income, with specific thresholds set for 2024. For instance, a family with one child must have earned no more than 28,956 euros, while a family with two children has a limit of 35,638 euros. The payment is generally automatic, though parents of children under six entering primary school or those aged 16 to 18 must submit proof of enrollment.

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The allowance is intended to help modest families with school-aged children, students or apprentices, aged 6 to 18.

The allowance amounts vary depending on the child's age: 426.87 euros for those aged 6-10, 450.41 euros for 11-14 year olds, and 466.02 euros for 15-18 year olds. These figures aim to help cover essential back-to-school expenses.

According to the Caisse nationale d'allocations familiales (Cnaf), families spend an average of 1,315 euros per child per year on schooling. Approximately 400 euros of this amount is spent at the start of the school year on necessities like clothing, school supplies, and lunches. The Cnaf notes that two-thirds of these costs are related to clothing, canteen, and school supplies, with additional expenses for school insurance, sports equipment, and extracurricular activities.

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Families spend an average of 1,315 euros per child per year on schooling, with nearly 400 euros at the start of the school year for essential purchases, about the amount of the ARS.