Cost is the main barrier facing many adults who pursue postsecondary credentials. Unmet need--the gap between expenses and what adult students can pay--averages roughly $8,000 for the lowest-income students. Providing such students access to public benefits — like subsidized child care, SNAP, Medicaid, and TANF— can reduce unmet need, decrease debt levels, increase financial stability and help students care for their families.
In an effort to make it easier for states to align these policies, six federal departments released an interagency letter, “Aligning Federal Supports and Program Delivery for College Completion,” that highlighted how those who are receiving SNAP or other benefits can benefit from federal financial aid for college. SNAP, for example, has complex rules for students attending postsecondary education and training more than part-time, but states can define whether low-income students enrolled in college or certain occupational programs more than part-time qualify. In addition, some low-income students receiving federal or state work-study funds are eligible for SNAP.
Source: Center for Law & Social Policy, 11/22/17, SNAP Helps College Students
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