French universities address enrollment and student cost of living

As the new academic year begins in France, universities are addressing both enrollment stability and rising student precariousness. At Université Clermont Auvergne (UCA), enrollment remains steady with 37,000 students registered for the 2026-2027 term, despite potential demographic declines. The university has introduced new programs, including a teaching license and specialized training in sustainable housing law to meet local economic needs.

However, economic pressures persist. The student federation FedEA reports a 2.5% increase in back-to-school costs compared to the previous year. With over one in three students in the Auvergne region receiving scholarships, many are forced to seek supplemental employment to manage living expenses.

In the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, local authorities are implementing measures to combat student poverty. The regional government has allocated over €920,000 to support 68 projects aimed at improving student well-being and equality of opportunity. This includes €264,000 for CROUS-led initiatives and the deployment of student referents to strengthen social ties within university residences in Dijon and Besançon.