Just moved to Clermont-Ferrand and worried about paying your rent? The CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) may help you cover part of your housing costs through monthly financial assistance. You can check your eligibility online, apply through the official CAF website and get help with your application in Clermont-Ferrand.
What is the CAF and can students apply?
The CAF is a French public organisation that provides financial support to eligible people. Students may qualify for housing assistance, commonly called APL, although the CAF can also award other types of housing benefits, depending on the accommodation and personal situation.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including your resources, rent, accommodation and residence status. You can check your situation using the official housing assistance simulator.
Important for international students: Since 1 July 2026, new rules apply to certain students from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland. Students with a residence permit for studies generally need a higher-education grant based on social criteria to qualify, although exceptions apply to some situations, including working students and apprentices. Check the official CAF guidance before relying on this assistance in your budget.
How to apply for CAF housing assistance
You can complete the application online in four simple steps.
1. Estimate your assistance
Use the official simulator to check your potential eligibility and estimate how much assistance you could receive. Remember that the result is only an estimate, not a guarantee.
2. Prepare your documents
Before applying, gather your rental agreement, bank details (RIB/IBAN), landlord’s contact information, rent amount and a valid email address. Depending on your circumstances, the CAF may also request identity, civil-status or residence documents.
3. Apply online
Visit caf.fr and follow the instructions to submit your housing assistance application. If this is your first application, you can start the process even if you do not yet have a French social security number. The CAF provides a temporary login for first-time applicants who need one.
International students can also consult the CAF’s guide for foreign students, which includes information in English.
4. Track your application
Check your CAF account regularly to follow your application and upload any additional documents requested. Processing takes time, so do not assume you will receive assistance immediately after applying.
Where can you get help with the CAF in Clermont-Ferrand?
If you have questions or find the online application difficult, you can contact the CAF directly.
CAF du Puy-de-Dôme
Address: 2 rue Auger, 63032 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
The office has a self-service digital area where you can complete online procedures without an appointment. You can also arrange a personalised appointment with an adviser. Bus lines B, E1 and E2 serve the area, and Tram A is approximately 600 metres away.
For the latest reception arrangements, visit the official Clermont-Ferrand CAF office page.
You can also call 3230 to contact the CAF by phone. For your own situation, use the official website or speak directly with an adviser rather than relying on general advice online.
Ready to get started?
Start by checking your eligibility and preparing your documents before submitting your application. This can help you plan your housing budget more realistically while settling into your new city.
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Read next: Student Housing in Clermont-Ferrand: Where to Start as a New Student — practical steps to help you find a place to live and settle into student life.
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