Classes are back in session at colleges and universities across Oregon. Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is reminding students about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which can help eligible students afford groceries while they pursue their education.
Student eligibility
SNAP has special rules for students ages 18 through 49 who attend an institution of higher education at least half time (as defined by their school). To be eligible for SNAP, students must meet regular SNAP rules and at least one exemption.
Exemptions include students who:
- Participate in a state or federally funded work-study program.
- Work for pay an average of at least 20 hours per week.
- Are responsible for the care of a young child or meet certain requirements as a parent attending school.
- Receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or unemployment benefits.
- Participate in certain employment and training programs, including SNAP Employment and Training or qualifying Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act programs.
- Are enrolled in an undergraduate course of study intended to be completed in four years or less that leads to employment. This can include students beginning at a community college and planning to transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Other exemptions may apply depending on a student’s circumstances.
“Students are working hard to build skills, complete their education and prepare for their future careers,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, interim director of the ODHS Oregon Eligibility Program. “SNAP can help eligible students afford food while they pursue those goals. The eligibility rules can be complicated, so we encourage students who need help to reach out rather than assume they don’t qualify.”
The SNAP rules for students are different from the Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) work rules. ABAWD work rules are for people ages 18 through 64 who do not receive SNAP with children under the age of 14.
Benefits Navigators can help students find support
Oregon funds a Benefits Navigator at every public college and university. Navigators work with students to understand their needs, develop plans, and connect them with resources.
During the 2025–26 school year, Benefits Navigators served more than 30,000 students statewide and made more than 45,000 referrals to campus and community resources.
Work or activity rules
Students who are enrolled in school half time or more are exempt from the ABAWD work requirements. However, students of higher education must first meet a student exemption to get benefits.
Because several rules can affect eligibility, ODHS encourages students to ask for help rather than assume they do not qualify. If a student was previously denied SNAP because they did not meet the requirements, they can reapply if their student status or situation has changed.
How to get help
Students interested in SNAP can:
- Contact a Benefits Navigator at their college or university
- Apply or manage benefits online at benefits.oregon.gov
- Call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075
- Visit an ODHS office
- Learn more at the Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon website