CalFresh Food
What is CalFresh Food?
CalFresh Food is a federal nutrition assistance program that provides eligible students with monthly funds for groceries via an EBT card. To help you access these benefits, SJSU Cares provides personalized guidance to navigate the application process and determine your eligibility.
Most students can receive up to $298/month. It’s not a loan, and it doesn’t affect financial aid.
Student Eligibility Requirements
Student Eligibility at SJSU
You must meet all 5 baseline requirements and at least 1 of the given exemptions.
- Baseline Requirements
- A U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Between 18 and 49 years old.
- If you are under 22 and living with your parents, you will need to apply together as a household
- Enrolled at least half-time in San José State University
- Not on a campus meal plan with 11+ meal swipes per week
- Be mentally and physically fit for work
- Excemptions
- On average, work at a minimum of 20 hours per week or 80 hours a month
- Have a child/dependent of 12 years or younger
- Receive TANF-funded CalGrant A or B
- In a local program that increases employability (LPIE)
- Participating in a federal work study program
Use SJSU Cares' CalFresh Food Screener to find out if you could be eligible!
Receive Application Support
SJSU Cares offers personalized, 1-on-1 support to help students navigate the CalFresh application process with confidence. Staff work closely with students to verify eligibility, gather necessary documentation, and ensure every detail is correct. This dedicated guidance is designed to make the application process smoother and avoid any confusion, helping students secure the food assistance they need and deserve.
Other Ways To Apply for CalFresh Food
1. Santa Clara & San Mateo residents can receive CalFresh Food application support from Second Harvest of Silicon Valley. You may call them at 1-800-984-3663.
2. Students residing outside Santa Clara & San Mateo counties may visit the National SNAP Directory.
3. While we highly recommend receiving CalFresh Food application support, students can still apply independently through BenefitsCal.
Local Programs that Increase Employability (LPIE)
Many majors and support programs at SJSU are officially recognized as Local Programs that Increase Employability (LPIE). Students enrolled in these approved programs may be eligible for CalFresh benefits without needing to meet the usual student work requirements.
How to verify your major/program as LPIE:
-
- Complete the LPIE Request Form using your SJSU email.
- The SJSU Cares team will confirm if your program meets the criteria.
- If eligible, you will receive an official LPIE verification letter to include with your CalFresh application to streamline the approval process.
For any questions regarding the form: Email us at calfresh@sjsu.edu.
Locations That Accept EBT Card
SNAP Retailer Locator
The SNAP Retailer Locator tool helps you find retailers that accept EBT near you. Type in your street address, city,
state, or zip code, and select a store or a map point to get more details and directions
on how to get there.
Farmers' Market Finder
Use this Farmers' Market Finder tool to locate a SNAP-eligible market near you. Many farmers' markets will double your money if you use CalFresh Food to purchase your fruits and vegetables.More Information
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will CalFresh affect my financial aid or taxes?
- No, CalFresh is not considered income and will not affect financial aid or taxes.
- No, CalFresh is not considered income and will not affect financial aid or taxes.
- Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
- One person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- One person in your household must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
- How long does the process take?
- Most students receive a decision within 30 days after applying.
Helpful Resources
Email us at calfresh@sjsu.edu for any questions.
