SNAP FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

IN California

CalFresh, California’s SNAP program, provides supplemental income for purchasing food to low-income households. An eligible person or family receives an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which is used like any other debit card at the grocery store. The card uses money from a CalFresh account set up for the eligible person or family to pay for food items.

Are College Students Eligible for SNAP?

Students attending an institution of higher education, like a college, university, trade school, or technical school more than half-time are eligible for SNAP if they meet an exemption and meet all other SNAP eligibility requirements. SNAP eligibility for college students is complicated and confusing; use the screener below to see if you are eligible.

I QUALIFIED, How Do I Apply?

You don’t need to go to an office! You can apply online and receive your EBT card in the mail.

The quickest and easiest way to apply for SNAP is online at https://www.getcalfresh.org or http://benefitscal.org.

If you are eligible, you will be able to access your SNAP benefits no later than 30 days from the date the office received your application. If you have very little or no income for the month and you need help right away, you may qualify for SNAP benefits within seven days.

Where/How to Use SNAP?

SNAP benefits can only be used to buy food and plants and seeds to grow food for your household to eat.

You can use your EBT card to purchase food at any grocery store, farmers’ market, or online website that accepts SNAP.

Visit the US Department of Agriculture website here to learn more about shopping for groceries online with your SNAP benefits and more.

Outreach Organizations

You can reach out to these organizations to get help with your application for SNAP benefits:

  • L.A. Food Bank (323) 234-3030 ext. 187. Their CalFresh Outreach Program provides SNAP outreach services at Pasadena City College, Cerritos College, Cal Poly Pomona, Claremont Graduate University and Los Angeles Southwest College, with services for Los Angeles Mission College, East Los Angeles College and Citrus College planned for the future.

  • California Community Colleges

  • Call the California SNAP hotline to learn more at (877) 847-3663

Resources & Contacts