The latest federal COVID-19 relief bill expanded eligibility for college students to qualify for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The new, temporary changes apply to students who are enrolled in classes at least half-time and meet either of the following exemptions:
- The individual is eligible to participate in a state or federally financed work study program during the school year. Previously a student needed to be actively participating in a work study program in order to qualify for SNAP; or
- The individual has an expected family contribution of $0 in the current academic year. Students who receive the maximum Pell grant meet this exemption.
The easiest way to confirm your eligibility for work study or to verify your expected family contributions is with a financial aid award letter or Student Aid Report from your college or institution of higher learning. Just include a copy of the document with along with your other required verifications when you apply. If you don’t have a copy of your financial aid letter or Student Aid Report, you can contact your college or institution to request one.
These temporary exemptions will be in effect until 30 days after to COVID-19 public health emergency is lifted, which is scheduled for May 11, 2023. Students still need to meet
all other eligibility criteria in order to qualify for SNAP.
Learn more about COVID-19 college student exemptions.