Ask a college student what they’d like most in the world, and they’ll probably tell you less stress. What often comes after that? More access to food security. In fact, a GAO analysis revealed that 3.8 million college students faced food insecurity in 2020. How to get more support for students in need – food security is a critical issue on campuses today.
There are several ways students can access assistance, and in today’s post, we’re going to explore the SNAP program or EBT for college students.
1. Can College Students Qualify for EBT/SNAP Benefits?
SNAP provides low-income households with vital food assistance. SNAP benefits are added to an EBT card.
1.1. How to qualify for SNAP (General SNAP requirements)
You generally need to apply through your state and meet certain eligibility requirements to receive SNAP benefits. Your household income must be within the limits established by the federal government to qualify for SNAP benefits.
For most households, including those without elderly or disabled members, the gross income limit is 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. If your household includes elderly (60+) or disabled members who are considered a separate household, your household gross income must be at or below 165% of the Federal Poverty Level.
(Note: When you apply, you will find out exactly if your household qualifies for SNAP and how much you might receive. It’s the best way.)
1.2. Are college students eligible for SNAP?
Students may qualify for SNAP if they:
- Meet all standard eligibility rules (including income limits, though financial aid and work-study earnings typically aren’t counted)
- Meet at least one of the approved student exemptions.
Student exemptions for SNAP:
Students enrolled at least half-time may still be eligible for SNAP if they meet at least one of the exemptions, including:
- Under age 18 or age 50 or older
- Physically or mentally unfit
- Caring for a child under age 6
- Receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Participating in an on-the-job training program
- and more.
2. How to Get EBT for College Students
College students who meet the above eligibility requirements may be able to receive SNAP benefits or an EBT card.
Before applying, students should make sure they:
- Meet the income and resource limits for SNAP
- Qualify under student-specific exemptions if enrolled at least half-time
- Live in the state where they plan to apply
Here’s how college students apply for SANP:
Apply Through Your State’s SNAP Office:
Each state runs its own SNAP program, so students need to apply through the SNAP office in the state where they currently live.
Students can visit their state SNAP website or contact their local SNAP office for application forms and additional help. Many states also offer online applications.
Submit Required Documents:
You’ll need to prepare some documents like:
- Proof of income (such as pay stubs or financial aid details)
- Proof of enrollment in a qualifying institution
- Proof of exemption eligibility
3. SNAP Benefits for College Students
After approval for SNAP, you will receive an EBT card.
You will receive monthly funds on your EBT card, which can be used to purchase eligible food items at approved stores and markets.
Your EBT card can be used to purchase eligible food items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Breads and cereals
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.)
- Canned goods and shelf-stable foods
- Non-alcoholic beverages (juice, bottled water, etc.)
You cannot use SNAP benefits to buy:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins, supplements, or medicines
- Hot/prepared foods meant for immediate consumption
In addition, the EBT card also connects you to a range of other helpful programs and resources. One of the most valuable programs you may qualify for is the Lifeline program, which helps reduce the monthly cost of phone or internet service.
If you’re receiving SNAP benefits, you may already meet the eligibility criteria for Lifeline. Lifeline benefits include:
- $9.25 off your monthly phone or internet bill ($34.25 for Tribal lands)
- Access to free or discounted mobile plans through approved providers
4. How to Apply for Lifeline with EBT for College Students
Before you start your Lifeline application, make sure you have your documents ready. You’ll need to show proof that you’re participating in the SNAP program.
Among the trusted providers college students can count on is AirTalk Wireless. They’ve been a proud Lifeline partner for years, and one of the exclusive perks AirTalk gives eligible customers is a discounted or free device, from phones to tablets:
Step 1: Go to the AirTalk Wireless website and type in your ZIP code.
Step 2: Choose your plan. Pick the free plan that covers talk, text, and data. Or, if you want to use your current phone, choose the BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) option.
Step 3: Scroll through the list of available free devices and pick the one you like.
Step 4: Upload required documents.
Step 5: Submit your application. AirTalk and USAC will review your documents.
>>> Check out more: EBT Phone Service: How To Get Free Phone with EBT Card Or SNAP
5. Information about the SNAP program in the States
The amount of SNAP benefits you will receive depends on various factors, such as your income, your household size, and the cost of living in your location.
SNAP benefits in California
- SNAP is called CalFresh in California.
- The state has the Market Match program that doubles CalFresh benefits at farmers’ markets and farm-direct sites.
- EBT for college students California: An eligible student will receive up to $291 each month in CalFresh benefits, according to getcalfresh.org (which is one of the places to apply for CalFresh).
SNAP benefits in Massachusetts
- When you use SNAP benefits to buy local products, you can get an additional $20 per month loaded back onto your EBT card through the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP).
- The SNAP Path to Work program provides free education and training opportunities. This program helps you gain skills for better job opportunities and work towards financial independence.
- You can access free nutrition education classes and resources that help you make healthy food choices and manage your grocery budget more effectively.
- Your EBT card can also connect you to other valuable resources, including utility discounts, free school meals for children in your household, and discounted admissions to many Commonwealth museums and cultural institutions through the EBT Card to Culture program.
SNAP benefits in Texas
- The state EBT system uses the Lone Star Card to give access to SNAP for college students Texas and others.
- A single person will receive $291 each month in Texas SNAP benefits.
SNAP benefits in New York City
- If you’re a SNAP recipient in NYC, you can now use your EBT card to shop for fresh produce and groceries online from approved retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
- When you use SNAP at NYC farmers markets, you can earn Health Bucks – $2 coupons you can spend on fresh fruits and vegetables. For every $2 you spend using your EBT card, you get $2 in Health Bucks, up to $10 per day.
SNAP benefits in Illinois
- SNAP benefits are provided through the Illinois Link Card, an electronic card accepted at most grocery stores.
- Illinois participates in the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). RMP enables eligible households to use their benefits to buy hot meals at participating restaurants.
Conclusion
The program not only helps students afford groceries, but also eases some of the financial pressure that can impact academic success. EBT for college students offers real support when it’s needed most. If you’re a student facing food insecurity, don’t overlook these resources. Be sure to check out our full guide to learn how to apply, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your benefits.