SNAP
Getting help with groceries is easier than you think.
The federal government has expanded college students' access to SNAP benefits. Someone who purchases and prepares their food alone is now qualified for a SNAP benefit of up to $291 per month! 
SNAP, also known as food stamps, helps Minnesotans with low incomes get the food they need for nutritious and well-balanced meals. The program provides support to help stretch your food budget. It is not intended to meet all of your food needs; it is a supplement.
Eligible students can use SNAP benefits to buy food through an EBT card (like a debit card). SNAP can be used to buy food at supermarkets, local grocery stores, corner stores, farmers markets, and online from Amazon, Walmart and ALDI (through Instacart).
SNAP is an entitlement program, which means every single person eligible for the program will get benefits. Many Minnesotans utilize SNAP as a supplemental way to purchase groceries for their household. Access to this benefit recently expanded because the federal government understands how critical food access is for college students.
Students living in North Dakota can also apply for SNAP. Visit the Department of Human Services website for more information on eligibility and how to apply. You can also take
What's the most money I can make to qualify?
| Number of people in household | Monthly income before taxes |
| 1 | $2,430 |
| 2 | $3,287 |
| 3 | $4,143 |
| 4 | $5,000 |
| 5 | $5,857 |
| 6 | $6,713 |
| 7 | $7,570 |
| 8 | $8,427 |
For each additional family member above 8, add $857.
Note: Income guidelines are updated each year. These guidelines are for Oct. 1, 2023, through Sept. 30, 2024.
The screening tool is also available in other languages:
- Hmong - screening tool (PDF)
- Russian - screening tool (PDF)
- Somali - screening tool (PDF)
- Spanish - screening tool (PDF)
How much of a benefit will I get?
This depends on your income, expenses and the number of people who live with you. The average monthly benefit amount per person in Minnesota is $109. The maximum possible amounts are listed below:
| Unit/family size | Maximum benefit amount |
1 | $291 |
2 | $535 |
3 | $766 |
4 | $973 |
5 | $1,155 |
6 | $1,386 |
7 | $1,532 |
8 | $1,751 |
| For each additional person over 8... | Add $219 |
You may need to apply for SNAP with other people you live with, including your parents if you are under 22 years of age, your children if you are a parent of children who are under 22 years of age, your spouse, and anyone else you live with and share meals with. To be eligible for SNAP, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident for at least 5 years with a Social Security Number, in addition to meeting the SNAP rules and income eligibility criteria.
We encourage you to apply if you’re eligible! If you have questions, check out the resources above or reach out to M State social workers Tyler Strand at 218.299.6839 or tyler.strand@minnesota.edu and Lori Hinrichs at 218.846.3687 or lori.hinrichs@minnesota.edu.