College Students
4 in 10 Washington college students experience food insecurity.
SNAP can help.
SNAP Eligibility for College Students
For students of higher education in Washington, there are additional considerations when determining your eligibility for SNAP. If you are between the ages of 18-49 and enrolled at least half time in courses, these additional requirements apply to you.
Just like the general public, college students must be at or below the general income requirements for SNAP.
In addition to meeting the income requirements, college students must meet one or more of the following:
Employed (including self-employment) and working at least 80 hours a month, or an average of 20 hours per week
Participating in a state or federal work-study program, or approved for work study and anticipating being placed in a work-study job
Responsible for more than 50% of the care of a child age 11 or younger
Physically or mentally unable to work
Receive TANF benefits
Are enrolled in Basic Food Education & Training (BFET) at your school
For more details, explore this student eligibility checklist.
| Household Size | Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,510 |
| 2 people | $3,407 |
| 3 people | $4,303 |
| 4 people | $5,200 |
| 5 people | $6,097 |
| 6 people | $6,993 |
Income Limits
200% of the Federal Poverty Line
How to Apply
Most colleges in Washington employ a benefits navigator who can help you determine your eligibility and help in the applications process. You can also ask at your school’s financial aid office or student life center, and they should be able to direct you.
If you think you may be eligible for SNAP as a college student, there are lots of resources to help you through the application process.
Benefits Navigators
If you are a community college student in King County, you can even book an appointment at your school’s Benefits Hub online.
You can also call the Family Food Hotline, which is staffed with specialists who are trained to answer all your questions about SNAP and assist you with the application.
Family Food Hotline
Washington Connections
Want to apply online? If you don’t need assistance with the SNAP application, you can submit an application through the Washington Connections website.
Make sure you are prepared for the application process by reading more about it here.
Last updated: November 21, 2024