As a college student, dining options can be overwhelming. With so many meal plans and dining halls to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the best choice for your meal plan at Rutgers University.

Understanding Meal Plans at Rutgers
Rutgers University offers a variety of meal plans to meet the needs of all students. The plans range in price and flexibility, so you can find one that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Block Meal Plans: Block meal plans allow you to purchase a set number of meals each semester. You can use your meals at any of the dining halls on campus. The number of meals you can purchase ranges from 10 per week to 19 per week.
Flex Meal Plans: Flex meal plans give you a certain amount of money to spend on food each semester. You can use your flex dollars at any of the dining halls on campus, as well as at many other retail locations on and off campus.
All-Access Meal Plan: The All-Access Meal Plan is the most comprehensive meal plan offered by Rutgers. It gives you unlimited access to all of the dining halls on campus, as well as to many other retail locations on and off campus.
Choosing the Right Meal Plan
The best meal plan for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors when making your decision:
- How often do you eat on campus? If you plan to eat most of your meals on campus, a block meal plan or an all-access meal plan may be a good option.
- How much do you want to spend on food? Meal plans range in price from $1,500 to $2,500 per semester. Choose a plan that fits your budget.
- What type of food do you like to eat? Rutgers’ dining halls offer a wide variety of food options, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Make sure the dining halls on campus offer food that you enjoy.
Dining Halls at Rutgers
Rutgers University has 10 dining halls located throughout the campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden. Each dining hall offers a different variety of food options, so you can always find something to your liking.
Brower Commons: Brower Commons is the largest dining hall on the New Brunswick campus. It offers a wide variety of food options, including a grill, a salad bar, a soup and sandwich station, and a pizza station.
Busch Dining Hall: Busch Dining Hall is located on the Busch campus. It offers a variety of food options, including a grill, a salad bar, a soup and sandwich station, and a pasta station.
Cook/Douglass Dining Hall: Cook/Douglass Dining Hall is located on the Cook/Douglass campus. It offers a variety of food options, including a grill, a salad bar, a soup and sandwich station, and a vegetarian station.
Livingston Dining Hall: Livingston Dining Hall is located on the Livingston campus. It offers a variety of food options, including a grill, a salad bar, a soup and sandwich station, and a Mexican station.
Retail Dining Options at Rutgers
In addition to the dining halls, Rutgers University also has a variety of retail dining options. These options include:
- Au Bon Pain: Au Bon Pain is a bakery and cafe that offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries.
- Chick-fil-A: Chick-fil-A is a fast food restaurant that offers a variety of chicken sandwiches, nuggets, and salads.
- Chipotle: Chipotle is a fast food restaurant that offers a variety of burritos, tacos, and bowls.
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Dunkin’ Donuts is a coffee and donut shop that offers a variety of coffee, donuts, and other pastries.
- Jamba Juice: Jamba Juice is a smoothie and juice bar that offers a variety of smoothies, juices, and other healthy snacks.
- Starbucks: Starbucks is a coffee shop that offers a variety of coffee, tea, and other beverages.
Meal Plan Rutgers: Additional Information
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about meal plans at Rutgers University:
- Meal plans are required for all first-year students living on campus.
- Meal plans can be purchased online or at the Bursar’s Office.
- Meal plans expire at the end of each semester.
- Unused meals cannot be carried over to the next semester.
- Meal plans can be refunded if you withdraw from the university.
Conclusion
Meal plans at Rutgers University are a great way to save money on food and make sure you’re eating healthy. With a variety of plans and dining options to choose from, you’re sure to find a meal plan that fits your needs.
1. How much do meal plans cost at Rutgers?
Meal plans at Rutgers range in price from $1,500 to $2,500 per semester.
2. What is the best meal plan for me?
The best meal plan for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the factors listed above when making your decision.
3. Can I use my meal plan at any dining hall on campus?
Yes, you can use your meal plan at any dining hall on campus.
4. Can I use my meal plan at retail dining options on campus?
Yes, you can use your flex dollars at retail dining options on campus.
5. What happens if I don’t use all of my meals?
Unused meals cannot be carried over to the next semester.