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Frequently Asked Questions

Don't see your question here? We invite and encourage you to call us anytime with questions, comments or suggestions about our Campus Dining Program.

Meal Plan Questions

What is a meal plan?

A meal plan is a package including a certain number of meals per week, snack allowance, and guest passes. A 19 meal plan for example includes 19 meals per week (Sun thru Saturday), $190 snack allowance, and 10 guest passes per year.

Can I change my meal plan and when is that possible?

Changes such as lowering your meal plan take place during the first two weeks of fall semester only at the UMass Pass Office. Increase in meal plans may be made at any time during the year at the Umass Pass Office. The difference in price of meal plans must be paid at that time. Payments may be made by cash, credit or check.

What is the difference between meal plans?

Meal plans differ in four ways. Firstly, the most obvious difference is in the amount of meals a student may consume per week. For example, a student with a 19 meal plan may visit the Resident Dining Hall up to 19 times a week. The second difference is in the amount of snack allowance that comes with each meal plan. The third difference is in the number of guest meals each meal plan has in addition to Resident Dining Hall meals. The fourth difference lies in the cost.

Do I have to purchase a meal plan?

If you live in the traditional Residence Halls, purchasing a meal plan is mandatory. If you live in Cedar Dell however, you are not obliged to buy a meal plan.

What happens if I do not want a meal plan after I have already purchased one?

All students living in the Residence Halls are required to have a meal plan. However, in case extreme changes in circumstances occur that cause difficulties in supporting the cost of your meal plan, you may go to the UMass Pass Office to obtain a petition for release from housing or from the meal plan.You may return the petition to the UMass Pass, along with any supporting documents to to be reviewed.

What meal plan should I choose?

Choosing a meal plan should be determined strictly on an individual basis. Consider factors such as your current eating habits, class and work schedules, and if you will remain on campus on weekends. For example, if you plan to eat three times a day, then the 19 Meal Plan would be correct for you. Accordingly if you do not intend to eat every meal, choose a smaller meal plan.

General Questions

Can I let someone else use my ID to use the meals I will not be eating?

No. If someone other than yourself presents your card it will confiscated and you will need to see the Associate Director of Campus Services before being allowed entry into the Resident Dining Hall.

Can I use my meal plan anywhere else apart from the Resident Dining Hall?

Yes, the equivalent of one meal can be subtracted from your plan for breakfast and lunch at the food carts located in Group 1, and Group 2 and Group 6. You can chose between prepared packages consisting of salads, sandwiches, fruits and beverages. Additionally, students who have a 5 meal plan may use a meal in Birch Commons during specified times each day.

What happens if I do not use all my meals for the week?

Meals do not carry over from week to week. Meal periods begin Monday and end on Sunday. You will not be reimbursed for any meals not used.

How many meals can I use per day?

You may use one meal per time slot, which means that you may use three meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) on weekdays, and two meals (brunch and dinner) on weekends and holidays.

Guest Pass Questions

What is a guest pass?

Guest passes can be used to grant your guests free meals at the Resident Dining Hall.

When I run out of guest passes, can I just transfer one of my meal plan allowances to my guest?

No. Meal plan allowances cannot be transferred.

Menu Questions

Does the Resident Dining Hall offer a vegetarian alternative?

Vegan / vegetarian options are offered daily, including vegetarian entrees, salads and sandwiches.

What shall I do if I am on a special diet due to medical or religious reasons?

Please contact the Resident Dining Hall Manager Dawn Creamer at extension 8147 to discuss any dietary requirements. In case you need advice in regard to your diet, our on campus nutritonist, Danielle Shargorodsky. She can be reached at extentsion 8993 and will gladly answer your questions and assist you putting together a healthy meal plan for you.

Where can I get information about the weekly menu?

Right here on the web! For hours of operation and menu selections click here.

Snack Allowance Questions

What is snack allowance?

Snack-allowance is a pre-determined amount of money allotted to you with your meal plan. You can use it just like cash to purchase food from any dining location on campus.

What happens to my snack allowance at the end of the semester?

Your snack allowance can be carried over from one semester to another, but not year to year. You cannot withdraw this money as cash at any time. It cannot be transferred to another account.

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