Can Students Get SNAP Benefits in 2025? Here’s Who Qualifies for Food Assistance

With grocery prices still rising and many families feeling the effects of inflation, more college students than ever are asking a critical question in 2025: Am I eligible for SNAP benefits?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—formerly known as food stamps—is designed to provide low-income individuals and families with money to buy healthy food. But the rules are a little different for students.

What Is SNAP and How Does It Work?

SNAP provides monthly funds through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card for purchasing food at approved retailers.

These benefits are a key tool in fighting food insecurity, especially at a time when economic pressures and rising costs are hard on student budgets.

Are Students Eligible for SNAP?

Yes—but with conditions. Students enrolled more than half-time in college, university, vocational, or technical school must meet one or more special exemptions to qualify.

Costs keep climbing, and tariffs add to the squeeze. But relief is still within reach—see what’s available to you today.
 

Student Exemptions That Make You Eligible for SNAP in 2025:

• You’re under 18 or over 50 years old

• You have a physical or mental condition that limits work

• You work at least 20 hours a week (or are self-employed earning minimum wage × 20 hours)

• You participate in a state or federally funded work-study program

• You’re in an on-the-job training program

• You care for a child under 6

• You care for a child between 6–11 without adequate childcare to attend school and work

• You’re a single parent attending school full-time with a child under 12

• You receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

• You are enrolled through a qualifying Employment & Training (E&T) program, such as:

  • SNAP E&T

  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)

  • Trade Adjustment Assistance Program

If you meet any of these exemptions, you must still qualify under your state’s income and resource limits to receive SNAP.

Don’t Guess—Check with Your Local Office

Eligibility can vary by state, and determining if your circumstances meet the criteria isn’t always straightforward.

If you're unsure, the best step is to contact your local SNAP office. They can help you figure out if you're eligible and walk you through the application process.

With inflation pushing up food prices, no student should have to choose between books and groceries.

SNAP exists to help—and if you qualify, you could start receiving benefits as soon as your application is approved.

Previous article: SNAP Food Assistance: Who Gets Paid This Week in Texas and Florida (April 14–20)?

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