Introduction to the Solidarity Office and Students' Financial Rights

The All Solidarity Service: Your partner for a successful and stress-free academic experience.

Academic success isn’t just about classes and exams. It’s also about managing your budget, finding housing, and dealing with the unexpected challenges of daily life. At the Catholic University of Lille, you’re not alone: the All Solidarity Service is here to support you and help you understand your rights. Find out how this service can help you and what benefits you’re eligible for (CAF, APL, scholarships).

What is the Solidarité Service at All?

The Solidarité Service is a social support service available to all students at the Catholic University of Lille, without exception. Staffed by a team of social workers bound by professional confidentiality, the service is dedicated to improving your quality of life. 

Whether you’re facing social, family, administrative, or financial challenges, our professionals are here to support you. They’ll guide you through the process, listen to your concerns, and help you find practical solutions so that you can succeed academically under the best possible conditions. 

A Closer Look at Your Rights and the Steps to Take

There are many forms of financial aid available to help ease the strain on your student budget. Here are the main ones and how to apply for them quickly:

1. Housing Assistance (CAF: APL and ALS)

All student housing may qualify for benefits and assistance from the Family Allowance Fund (CAF). Depending on the type of housing, you may be eligible for:

• APL (Personalized Housing Assistance): Generally available for subsidized housing and in residential facilities, provided the facility is eligible. 

Don’t worry, the process is the same. 

The process:

• When? As soon as you have your lease and have moved in. The assistance is not retroactive!
• Where? Directly on the caf.fr website.
• Key document: You’ll need a rent certificate for housing linked to All (in your tenant portal). If you’re renting student housing from a private landlord, the CAF may ask you for additional documents. 

2. Need-Based Grants (CROUS)

The CROUS offers grants based on your parents’ income, the distance from home, and the number of dependent children.

The process:

• You must complete your Student Social File (DSE) online between March 2 and May 31, 2026, for the upcoming academic year (please note that if the student is under an apprenticeship or professional training contract, they are not eligible for a CROUS grant).
• The Solidarity Office can assist you if you encounter difficulties in putting together this application, or in the event of unforeseen changes.

3. Health and Social Services Scholarships (BESS)

If you are pursuing a degree in the health or social services field, these scholarships are funded by the Hauts-de-France Region.

How to apply:

• Check your eligibility on the Region’s website. The criteria are specific to these vocational programs.

4. One-time Assistance and Emergency Funds

In the event of an unexpected crisis (family breakdown, loss of a student job, etc.), the Solidarity Office can refer you to emergency financial aid committees. They can assess your situation to help you apply for one-time assistance.

Why contact the Solidarity Service?

Going through All’s Solidarity Service ensures you don’t miss out on any benefits you’re entitled to. Social workers can help you:

• Helps you learn about and understand your rights.
• Assists with complex administrative procedures.
• Provides support tailored to your specific situation.

Useful information : 

• 📧 Email: solidarite@all-lacatho.fr 

Conclusion: Don’t keep your questions or concerns to yourself. The Solidarity Office is here to help make your student life at La Catho a more peaceful and fulfilling experience.