CalFresh student eligibility temporarily expanded

Effective immediately, students are encouraged to apply for CalFresh IF they are eligible for federal or state work study program, even if the student does not secure a work study job; OR if they have an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $0. 

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 temporarily changes the CalFresh student eligibility rule due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The changes are effective immediately and will remain in place until 30 days after the COVID-19 public health emergency is lifted. If a student meets one of the following criteria, they are encouraged to apply for CalFresh:

• The student is eligible for state or federally financed work study during the regular school year, as determined by the campus financial aid office, OR
• The student has an Expected Family Contribution (EFC) of $0, as determined by the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC).

Before the Act was passed, students had to be approved for work study (not just eligible) and anticipate working during the approved term(s). The Act temporarily expands the work study exemption to all eligible students. In other words, it is no longer required that a student be officially approved for work study or anticipate getting a work study job.

For more information, including a list of acceptable verifications, see this printable flyer and this printable FAQ sheet.