What is CalFresh? 

CalFresh is a federally funded program that helps low-income families and individuals by providing monetary monthly food benefits. CalFresh funds are provided electronically through a physical Golden State Advantage Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The EBT card works similarly to a debit card that can be used in person at authorized retailers and at some farmers' markets. As of June 1st, 2026, if you are enrolled in one of the following institutions: 

• California Community College (CCC)
• California State University (CSU)
• University of California (UC) 

Your associate or bachelor’s degree program helps you qualify for CalFresh! Please note that students must still meet general eligibility requirements. 

For up-to-date information on CalFresh, you may visit the Department of Social Services website for more. 

Eligibility for Students: 

There are certain eligibility requirements for students enrolling in CalFresh. Students must meet at least one exemption from the following list: 

• You work at least 20 hours per week OR 80 hours per month
• Be a TANF funded recipient of Cal Grant A or B
• You are a student worker on campus (no minimum hour requirement)
• You are an EOPOS student
• You are enrolled in a LPIE (Local Program that Increases Employability). Some graduate and certificate programs are exempt from the 20 hour per week work requirement. Currently, all undergrad associate and bachelors degrees are under LPIE including undeclared majors. You must be enrolled at least part-time.
• Some students with dependents may be eligible

* Student parents and students with registered disabilities have separate ways in which they are eligible. In addition, students on the Flex 5 meal plan or lower may also be eligible for CalFresh in addition to their meal plan

Support at the SDSU Basic Needs Center

It can sometimes be challenging for students to navgiate the application process. Students can receive assistance with enrolling in and recertifying their CalFresh benefits by visiting the Basic Needs Center in the Calpulli Center on the third floor in suite #3200 on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on a drop-in basis.