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If you need help paying for groceries, there are programs to assist you. Some students may be eligible to apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides monetary food-purchasing assistance for low-and-no-income individuals.

Use this estimator to see if you may be eligible for SNAP and how much in monthly SNAP benefits you might qualify for snapscreener.com

To apply visit the Access Nebraska site https://dhhs-access-neb-menu.ne.gov/start/ and fill out the Economic Assistance Application.  

How does SNAP work for College Students?

If you are attending a higher education institution more than half-time (as determined by CSC), meet other SNAP eligibility requirements, and also meet at least one of these requirements, you may qualify for SNAP.

  • Between the ages of 18-50
  • Have a physical or mental disability
  • Work at least 20 hours a week in paid employment
  • Participate in a state or federally financed work study program
  • Care for a child under the age of 6
  • Care for a child age 6-11 and lack the necessary child care enabling you to attend school and work 20 hours a week or participate in work study
  • Are a single parent enrolled full-time in college and taking care of a child under age 12
  • Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance

Other SNAP Considerations for Students:

A “household is determined by who purchases and prepares food together. This means a student living with roommates or in a dorm does not have to include their housemate’s income, identification documents, or other necessary documentation if they do not buy and prepare food together

Students must apply in the state they’re living in (not their home state) and they cannot receive SNAP benefits in two states at the same time.

SNAP and Financial Aid:

  • Financial aid does not count as earned income
  • SNAP benefits do not affect expected family contribution in regards to financial aid

*Note: There may be additional eligibility requirements you need to meet to qualify. SNAP is only available to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents.