The move means students can now buy a full meal at university canteens for just one euro ($1.13), down from the usual 3.30 euros. The scheme had earlier been limited to students receiving financial aid or those from low-income households.
The French government said the decision was aimed at addressing growing financial pressure on students, many of whom have reported cutting back on essentials such as food. Student unions and advocacy groups have for years called for broader access to affordable meals, warning that food insecurity has become increasingly common on campuses.
Several reports cite surveys showing that a significant number of students in France skip meals because they cannot afford regular food expenses.
French Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste said authorities expect demand for the subsidised meals to rise sharply. To support the expansion, the government plans to increase funding for university dining services over the next two years.
The meals are served through Crous, the state-run student welfare network that manages university housing and dining facilities. Officials say the expanded scheme is part of a broader effort to make student life more affordable at a time when inflation and housing costs remain high across Europe.
Also Read: 28 crew members of Disney cruise detained in US child exploitation probe: All about the case
