College Meal Plan Calculator (2024)

FAQs

Is it cheaper to get a meal plan in college? ›

Many colleges and universities require students that reside on campus to register for a meal plan. Even if you are not required, it may be cheaper to buy a meal plan than to pay cash for your meals.

If you are living on campus, we recommend that you go with a plan that allows you to eat at least twice a day (14 meals per week). Typically, colleges let you upgrade your meal plan at any time so we recommend that you start with a smaller meal plan and then upgrade to a bigger one if you find that you need it.

One approach is to add up the number of calories per serving of all the foods that you eat, and then plan your menus accordingly. The nutrition labels on all packaged foods and beverages provide calories per serving information.

The average cost of food per month for a college student is $673. College students spend on average $410 a month eating off-campus. Meals cooked at home average $263 a month when the cost of eating off-campus is included.

The average college student spends $410 eating off campus according to the Education Data Initiative. The average on-campus meal plan costs $450 per month, but the price can vary from state to state. When it comes to spending on groceries, the average college student spends anywhere from $272 – $429 a month.

Some schools require students living on campus to purchase a meal plan, regardless of whether the on-campus facilities can safely serve all students.

How can college students afford food? College students can apply for SNAP benefits, but they must work at least 20 hours per week or meet a specific exemption. Shopping at discount grocery stores and using free food pantries helps.

Universities nowadays “outsource” catering and cafeterias, cafes, etc., to outside vendors. It's cheaper for the university, but not for students, staff, or faculty. The private vendors see the students and employees as captives, and charge as much as they can. The prices on campus are, indeed, outrageous.

Critics argue that university meal plans often prioritize convenience over nutrition, leading to an abundance of high-calorie, processed foods that are low in essential nutrients. Fast food options, sugary drinks, and snacks are readily available, making it easy for students to make unhealthy food choices.

How to eat healthy in a college cafeteria? ›

Aim to fill half of the plate with fruits and veggies, a quarter with protein, and the final with a whole grain. Add a side of dairy, and you've covered the main food groups. Look for a variety of veggies: While almost every dining hall has a salad bar, there are typically other veggie options, too.

Nearly one-third (29%) of college students have missed a meal at least once a week since the beginning of the pandemic. More than half of all students (52%) sometimes use off-campus food banks – and 30% use them once a month or more.

1 pound, or approximately 0.45 kg, equates to about 3,500 calories. As such, in order to lose 1 pound per week, it is recommended that 500 calories be shaved off the estimate of calories necessary for weight maintenance per day.

It means no unplanned trips to the snack machine or drive-thru. You guys, you're totally going to eat healthier and save so much cash! Because a meal plan is all about being intentional with what you're spending and what you're eating. It's a win-win.

These plans provide students with the convenience of not having to cook at home, buy groceries, or allot a certain amount of money for food each week. The type of college food available depends on the school and which meal plan option you choose. The size and scope of meal plans in college also vary by school.