California Universal Meals
by California Department of Education
Free school breakfast and lunch for students at participating California public schools.
What you can get
Free school breakfast and lunch at participating public schools
California’s Universal Meals Program requires participating public school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools serving TK–12 to provide a nutritionally adequate breakfast and lunch free of charge each school day to students who request a meal, regardless of household income. Households do not file a separate statewide application for the meals themselves.
Overview
Free school breakfast and lunch for students at participating California public schools.
Who may qualify
Not every requirement is listed here. Confirm the full rules with the program administrator.
Location / service area
Statewide in California
How to apply
Use the official application or program page. Confirm current instructions with the administrator before you apply.
Preapproval not required
Important things to know
Last verified: Sep 6, 2026 · Confidence: High
Official sources
Not sure what you qualify for?
Check your eligibility. We’ll compare your answers with published program rules.
Eligibility is based on published program information and the details you provide. Program rules, funding and availability can change. Always confirm eligibility with the official program administrator.