Question 1

Am I eligible for Free School Meals?

Accepted Answer

Eligibility for Free School Meals is determined based on the size of your family and your household income. Families already enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, or TCA are automatically enrolled in Free School Meals and children at 60 MCPS schools don't need to apply to get breakfast and lunch in school for free. You can check your eligibility status and whether you need to apply using our eligibility calculator here.(https://www.readyforschoolinitiative.org/eligibility)

Question 2

May I apply if someone in my household is not a U.S. citizen?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You do not have to be U.S. citizens to qualify for Free School Meals. The Free School Meal application does not ask for immigration status and you do not have to have a social security number to qualify. No immigration restrictions exist for the Free School Meal program.

Question 3

Will applying for the Free School Meal Program affect my immigration status?

Accepted Answer

No. Applying for Free School Meals has never been considered an assistance program on the grounds of public charge and has never affected green card or visa status. No immigration restrictions exist for the Free School Meal program.

Question 4

Will the information I submit on the Free School Meal application remain private?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Montgomery County Public Schools keeps student Free School Meal eligibility confidential. The school system does not discuss student eligibility with anyone except students, parents, guardians and cafeteria managers.

Question 5

I’m concerned that my student may get embarrassed if other students learn that we need assistance

Accepted Answer

Students participating in the Free School Meal program receive their school meals in the cafeteria through the same process as every other student. Students have no way of knowing whether another student's meal was pre-paid, free, or reduced price.

Question 6

How can I submit a Free School Meal application?

Accepted Answer

You can apply online here.(https://www.myschoolapps.com/Application) You can watch a tutorial on how to complete the form here.(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJUapGLarBo)

Question 7

I have other questions about the Free School Meal program or application

Accepted Answer

For other questions, we recommend that you reach out directly to Montgomery County Public Schools. You can call them at 240-740-7400.

Frequently Asked Questions