College is expensive, and let’s be real, ramen and energy drinks aren’t a sustainable diet. If you’re struggling to afford groceries, you’re not alone. Many students don’t realize they might qualify for food assistance through SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), also known as food stamps or EBT.
The reality is that food insecurity is a major issue for college students. Between tuition, rent, and textbooks, finding enough money for nutritious meals can be tough. But SNAP is designed to help eligible students get the food they need to focus on their education instead of worrying about their next meal.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- What food stamps (SNAP) are and how they work
- Who qualifies as a college student
- How to apply and get approved
- What you can and can’t buy with SNAP benefits
- Common challenges and how to overcome them
Let’s dive in!
What Are Food Stamps (SNAP)?
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is a federal program that helps low-income individuals and families afford groceries. SNAP benefits are distributed through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card at authorized grocery stores and markets.
How Do SNAP Benefits Work?
- Each month, benefits are loaded onto your EBT card.
- You can use the card to buy approved food items at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and some online retailers.
- The amount you receive depends on your income, expenses, and household size.
Common Myths About SNAP
❌ Myth: Only unemployed people qualify.
✅ Reality: Many working students qualify, especially those in work-study programs or with low income.
❌ Myth: You must have children to get food stamps.
✅ Reality: Single college students can qualify under specific conditions.
❌ Myth: SNAP only covers healthy foods.
✅ Reality: You can buy a variety of food, including snacks and drinks (more on this later!).
Can College Students Get Food Stamps? (Breaking It Down Like You’re 5)
Yes, but student eligibility rules can be confusing. Generally, college students between the ages of 18-49 who are enrolled at least half-time must meet additional requirements to qualify.
Who Qualifies?
To receive SNAP, you must meet one of the following criteria in addition to income limits:
- Work at least 20 hours per week in a paid job.
- Be enrolled in a federal work-study program.
- Have a dependent child under the age of 6 (or between 6-12 if no childcare is available).
- Be unable to work due to a disability.
- Be enrolled in certain programs aimed at employment training.
- Attend school less than half-time.
Income Limits for Students
SNAP benefits are income-based. Generally, your household income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level (FPL). As of 2024, for a single-person household, this means making under $1,580 per month (before taxes). Income limits vary by state, so be sure to check your state’s SNAP website.
A Brief History of Food Stamps & Why They Matter for Students
SNAP was created in 1964 to combat hunger in the U.S. Over the years, it has expanded to help more groups, including low-income workers, families, and yes, college students.
Why Don’t More Students Use SNAP?
- Lack of Awareness: Many students don’t know they qualify.
- Complicated Rules: Student-specific requirements make it harder to get approved.
- Stigma: Some students feel embarrassed about using benefits.
However, food insecurity can lead to poor academic performance, higher stress levels, and even dropping out of school. SNAP is there to help, don’t be afraid to use it!
How to Apply for Food Stamps as a College Student
Applying for SNAP varies by state, but here’s a general process:
- Check Your Eligibility: Visit your state’s SNAP website or use a pre-screening tool.
- Gather Documents: You’ll need proof of income, student status, rent or utility bills, and ID.
- Submit an Application: Apply online, by mail, or in person at a local SNAP office.
- Attend an Interview: A phone or in-person interview is typically required.
- Wait for Approval: Decisions usually take 30 days. Emergency applications can be processed faster.
Once approved, your EBT card will be mailed to you, and you can start using your benefits right away!
What You Can and Can’t Buy with Food Stamps (And Why It’s Okay to Treat Yourself!)
What You CAN Buy with EBT:
- Fresh produce (fruits, vegetables, salad kits)
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Meat, poultry, and seafood
- Bread, cereal, and grains
- Canned goods and frozen foods
- Snack foods and beverages (yes, chips and soda are allowed)
- Seeds and plants that produce food
What You CAN’T Buy with EBT:
- Hot/prepared foods (unless your state has special programs)
- Alcohol and tobacco
- Non-food items (cleaning products, pet food, toiletries)
- Vitamins and supplements
The Stigma of Buying ‘Junk Food’ with Food Stamps
Some people believe that food stamps should only cover “healthy” foods, but SNAP is about food security, not food policing. If you’re studying for a brutal exam and need a package of Oreos, that’s your choice! Balancing your food budget with nutritious options is important, but it’s okay to treat yourself too.
The Impact of SNAP: How Food Assistance Helps Students Succeed
- Studies show that food insecurity negatively affects academic performance.
- SNAP participation is linked to higher retention and graduation rates.
- Many schools offer food pantries and meal assistance programs alongside SNAP.
Don’t let food insecurity hold you back, there are resources to help.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Struggle Alone, Help Is Available
College is hard enough without worrying about where your next meal is coming from. If you qualify for SNAP (EBT/food stamps), take advantage of it. There’s no shame in getting help so you can focus on your education.
If you want to learn more about how government policies impact the economy and everyday life, check out our article “Tariffs 101: What They Are, Why They Exist, and How They Shape the Economy.”
The Broke College Student 
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