Student Eligibility for Nutrition Assistance

Participants who meet the definition of a student enrolled in an institution of higher education are required to meet NA student work requirements or an NA student exemption to be potentially eligible for NA benefits.

To meet the NA student work requirements, the participant must meet one of the following:

• Employed and paid for at least 80 hours in a 30-day period.  Self-employed students must be employed for an average of 20 hours or more per week and receive earnings equal to the federal minimum wage.
• Participating in a state or federally-financed work-study program during the regular school year.
• Participating in an employment and training program assigned to or placed by the institution of higher education.
• Participating in an On-the-Job Training Program.

Students may be determined eligible for SNAP when they meet one of the following exemptions:

• Under the age of 18 and over the age of 53.
• Currently receiving Cash Assistance.
• Determined unfit for work.
• A single parent and full-time student who is responsible for the care of a child under age 11.
• The availability of adequate childcare when the student is responsible for the care of a child aged 6 through 11.

Students who believe they may be eligible for Nutrition Assistance (NA) benefits are encouraged to apply.