Due to the COVID-19 public health emergency, the federal government has made it easier for college students to qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). With SNAP, eligible college students can receive assistance in paying for groceries.

To qualify, you must be enrolled at least half-time for the Spring 2021 semester and meet one of the following two criteria:

• Have an expected family contribution of zero (0) on your 2020/21 FAFSA OR

• Have Federal Work Study listed on your 2020/21 Financial Aid Award Notification

If you believe you may qualify for SNAP benefits, you can complete the application process. You will be asked to submit supporting documentation of your 0 EFC or Federal Work Study Award.

To obtain documentation of your 0 EFC, go to FAFSA.gov and log in using your FSA ID. Next, select “View or Print your Student Aid Report (SAR).”  Your EFC will be in the upper right hand corner of the first page of your SAR.

Your Financial Aid Award Notification that was emailed to you earlier this academic year will also contain your EFC and will reflect if you are participating in Federal Work Study.

If you have any questions regarding your EFC or your Federal Work Study participation, please contact Columbia Central at columbiacentral@colum.edu.

If you have questions regarding applying for SNAP, contact abe.questions@illinois.gov