Unofficial student guide — not affiliated with EPITA. Always check official sources.

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Mutuelle (top-up health insurance) and CSS

A mutuelle is optional private insurance that covers what Assurance Maladie leaves. Low-income students may qualify for the state-supported Complémentaire santé solidaire (CSS).

Health

Verified

Being verified:CSS income limits and who is eligible change each year, and the rules for international students are not in EPITA's slides. Check ameli or ask your CPAM before you apply.

Before you start

Assurance Maladie is the first layer of reimbursement. A mutuelle is the second layer. It is a private complementary insurance that can cover much of what remains. EPITA says it can give up to 100% coverage of health expenses.

A mutuelle is not mandatory, but EPITA highly recommends one. You can compare offers and pick the one that fits your needs.

Steps: a private mutuelle

  1. Finish your Assurance Maladie registration first (see the health insurance guide).
  2. Compare several offers. Look at the monthly price, what they reimburse for doctor visits, dental care and glasses, and whether they cover students from abroad.
  3. Subscribe online or in person.
  4. Show your mutuelle details at pharmacies and doctors, together with your Carte Vitale.

EPITA mentions a partnership with SMERRA and links to a partner page. It is given here as information only. Compare it with other offers before you decide.

Steps: CSS for low incomes

The Complémentaire santé solidaire (CSS) is a state-supported mutuelle for people with low or modest incomes.

  • Free CSS: if your income is below a set limit.
  • CSS with a small monthly contribution: if your income is a little higher but still within the limit. Ameli shows contributions of up to 30 euros a month per person.

To apply:

  1. Check the conditions on ameli (link above). You need to be affiliated with Social Security and be within the income limit.
  2. Fill in the form “Demande de Complémentaire santé solidaire”. You can also apply from your ameli account.
  3. Send it with your documents to your CPAM.
  4. The CPAM has about 2 months to answer. The cover lasts one year, then you must renew.

Common problems

  • Unsure if you qualify. Use the official CSS site or ask your CPAM. Do not guess.
  • Paying twice. Do not take a private mutuelle and apply for CSS at the same time without checking. Ask your CPAM which fits your situation.
  • Mutuelle does not pay. Contact the mutuelle and check that it has your social security number.

Costs

Private mutuelle prices vary by offer. CSS is free or costs a small monthly amount, depending on income.

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