Everett Public Schools families have until Thursday, Oct. 1, to apply for free meals, reduced fees and extra school funding.

The district is urging all households to complete the Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit (CNEEB) Application, a form it says takes about five minutes. The district posted the announcement on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

Students who qualify can receive free school meals, discounted fees for sports, SAT, ACT and AP tests, college application fee reductions, scholarship opportunities and technology discounts including reduced internet and utility costs.

The form also generates additional funding for schools themselves, which the district said supports student education across its 33 campuses serving nearly 20,000 students.

The application is available online at myschoolapps.com using zip code 98203 and state WA. The district described the form as confidential and open to all students regardless of immigration status.

Submitting early matters. The district said completing the application before the Oct. 1 deadline ensures students can access benefits for the full school year rather than waiting until mid-year processing is complete.

Families whose financial situation changes after Oct. 1 can still submit the application later in the school year, according to the district.

Grades 6–12: extra step required

Students in grades 6–12 face an additional requirement beyond the CNEEB form. They must complete a separate annual consent form to qualify for eligibility benefits tied to athletics and Associated Student Body (ASB) programs.

That consent form is available at everettsd.org.

The district did not specify whether the consent form shares the Oct. 1 deadline or operates on a different timeline.

Families can access the CNEEB application at myschoolapps.com or pick up a paper copy at their student's school.