France Ends Individual Culture Pass Credits for Teens Under 17

A new decree reallocates funds to focus on older teens and collective cultural initiatives, citing cost concerns and mixed results.

The French government has eliminated individual Culture Pass credits for 15- and 16-year-olds, effective March 1, 2025.
Teens will now receive €50 at age 17 and €150 at age 18, with additional bonuses for those with disabilities or meeting social criteria.
The Culture Pass previously offered €20 at age 15 and €30 at age 16, but a 2024 report found it failed to reduce cultural inequality or engage underserved youth effectively.
The collective component of the Culture Pass, funding cultural projects in schools, has also faced a budget freeze until the end of the school year, sparking backlash from educators.
The Ministry of Culture argues the new structure simplifies the program and better supports cultural autonomy as teens approach adulthood.