Many colleges and universities offer meal plans that provide pre-paid dining options, making it easier to access regular meals without worrying about daily food expenses. Meal plans can be convenient and cost-effective, especially for students living on campus without access to a full kitchen. It is important to choose a meal plan that aligns with your schedule, dietary needs, and budget.

• Consider Your Schedule – If you have long class days, late-night study sessions, or work commitments, choose a meal plan that offers flexible dining options, such as to-go meals, extended dining hours, or late-night cafés. If you often eat between classes or have a busy schedule, you may want a plan that includes grab-and-go options rather than one that requires sitting down for every meal.

• Explore Dining Hall Options – Take a look at the variety of foods available on campus before committing to a meal plan. Consider whether dining halls offer nutritious options, allergen-friendly meals, plant-based choices, and diverse cuisine that align with your dietary preferences. Some schools may also have special meal accommodations for students with allergies or dietary restrictions—check with campus dining services to ensure you’ll have access to meals that fit your needs.

• Understand Meal Swipes vs. Dining Dollars – Most meal plans come with a set number of meal swipes, dining dollars, or a combination. Meal swipes allow you to enter the dining hall for a full (usually buffet-style meal), while dining dollars (or flex dollars) can be used at campus cafés, food courts, and convenience stores. A plan with more dining dollars and fewer meal swipes may be a better fit if you prefer variety or don't always eat in the dining hall.

• Think About Your Budget – Meal plans can be expensive, and while they offer convenience, it’s important to compare the cost of a full meal plan vs. grocery shopping and cooking on your own. If your dorm or apartment has a kitchen, a smaller meal plan with supplemental grocery shopping may be a cheaper and more flexible option.

• Check for Meal Plan Changes & Refund Policies – Some schools allow students to adjust or cancel their meal plans within the first few weeks of the semester if they realize it’s not the right fit. Reviewing change and refund policies in advance can help you make adjustments.