Does a Scholarship Student Receive More?

Yes, scholarship students generally benefit from a more favorable scale for the calculation of APL.

Can the Landlord Receive APL Directly?

Yes, this is called 'third-party payment'. The amount of the aid is deducted from your rent, and the landlord receives the difference.

APL in 2026: The Guide to Maximize Benefits

Living in shared accommodation is an opportunity to split costs, but it's also an excellent way to reduce your rent thanks to CAF benefits. Yet, one question always comes up: "Do I receive less APL because I'm in shared accommodation?"

The short answer is: No, but the calculation is different. Contrary to popular belief, CAF does not look at the total rent of the apartment, but at your personal share. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or even unemployed, we explain how to navigate the complexities of administration so your budget stays in the green.

The Guide to Follow

1. The Golden Rule: Divide and Conquer

For CAF, a roommate is a tenant in their own right. The organization takes into account the total rent divided by the number of people listed on the lease. If there are 3 of you and the rent is €1200, CAF will consider a rent of €400 per person for its calculation. Your personal income and situation (scholarship student, employee, etc.) will then affect the final amount.

2. The Impact of Lease Type on Your Benefits

Be careful, the structure of your rental contract changes the administrative situation for your file.

Type of Lease	Impact on APL
Single Lease (Joint)	The total rent is divided by the number of roommates. A single lease is provided to CAF by everyone.
Individual Lease	Each roommate has their own lease with their own rent. It's simpler because the amount is already that of your room.

Beware of Cohabitation!

If you live in shared accommodation with your partner, do not declare yourself as "shared accommodation" but as "common life / cohabitation" with CAF. Benefits are then calculated on the couple's income, which is often less advantageous than two separate files in "classic" shared accommodation. Lying about this is considered fraud.

3. Mistakes That Cost Money

Waiting for the Lease

Do not wait to have the signed paper document to start your online entry.

Forgetting the Charges

CAF does not take into account fixed charges for shared accommodation, only the rent excluding charges.

A Roommate's Departure

If a roommate leaves and is not replaced, report it! Your share of the rent increases, and your APL can be reassessed.

4. Four Steps for a First-Time Approved Application

Retrieve Your Lease
It's the centerpiece. Make sure your name is on it.
Prepare Your Rent Certificate
It's a Cerfa form that your landlord must fill out. On Homebro, you can request it with a click!
Do the Online Simulation
Go to the CAF or MSA website. Have your N-2 income ready.
Validate the Application as Soon as You Move In
APL is not retroactive. If you move in on September 1st, make your application on September 1st!

Homebro's Advice

For CAF to process your file quickly, clear documents are needed. With the Homebro app, your landlord can generate clean rent receipts and digital rent certificates in seconds. Less paperwork, more time to enjoy shared accommodation!

Quick Questions (FAQ)

Yes, the allowance must be declared but does not prevent you from receiving APL. However, be careful: if you receive APL, you are no longer considered a dependent for your parents' own family benefits or taxes.