Empower Every Learner to Thrive!
Free and Reduced Meal Application
2026-2027 Free & Reduced Meal Applications
Online applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 school year.
Important Information
Free and Reduced meal benefits do not carry over from one school year to the next. A new application must be submitted each school year.
If your student received Free or Reduced meal benefits during the previous school year, those benefits will continue for the first 30 school days of the new school year. If a new application is not approved by the end of the 30-day grace period, your student will be charged the full price for meals.
Meal charges incurred after benefits expire are the parent or guardian's responsibility and cannot be reversed.
Applications are accepted at any time during the school year. If your household income changes, you may apply online or submit an application at your student's school or the Child Nutrition Department.
What Meal Benefits Cover
Free and Reduced meal benefits apply only to reimbursable school meals.
A la carte items are not covered and must be purchased using available funds in the student's meal account. Charging is not permitted for a la carte items.
Apply Online
We encourage families to apply online whenever possible.
Start the Online Application
To submit an online application, you must first create a LINQ Connect account.
- Visit www.bismarckschools.org/LINQ for account setup instructions.
- Create your LINQ Connect account.
- Select Bismarck, ND as your district.
- Choose Start Meal Application and complete the application.
Need help? Contact the Child Nutrition Department at (701) 323-4090.
Paper Applications
Beginning August 3, 2026, paper applications may be dropped off at your student's school or the BPS Child Nutrition Department:
BPS Child Nutrition
Facilities & Transportation Building
705 S. 9th Street
Bismarck, ND 58504