My son just wrapped up his first semester at UF and thought I’d share some info. Instead of the meal plan we had him use a credit card for all meals. I reviewed costs for last semester and he came in at right around $2000. A combination of on campus and off. Full meals and snacks. The current price for the 7 day all access Plus plan is $2214. So he was under that and we earned points every month on those purchases.
He has friends on the meal plan and they ended up eating off campus frequently with him. And unless they are very disciplined I assume most kids are like these and will spend outside the plan.
I will admit he didn’t make the healthiest choices, like a typical freshman. But it did give him full flexibility of where/when to eat.
Info for those trying to decide.
We did the same thing with our daughter. I’ll have to break down the cost, but it was less than $2,000 and that includes miscellaneous cost, such as study edge, the 22nd or 23rd (I lose count) phone charger, stuff from Amazon…etc. Most meals she can prepare in her room (soups, sandwiches) or the break room (muffins, eggs, chicken, etc.). She does enjoy eating out with her friends (or more commonly ordering delivery). Seems Bento’s and Midnight Cookies are a big hit. Oh…and Dunkin’ Donuts for the coffee. can’t forget her coffee…
My son quickly found the milkshake delivery to the dorm, and the pizza. He doesn’t cook in, though he probably should at least once a week or so. He tends to eat on the go, and late, not a good habit to get into.
And for anybody considering the meal plan–you have to commit to both semesters. So if you don’t use it the first semester…tough. Pays to learn to cook a bit.