Skip to Content

Grand Valley State University

logo

Meal Plans 101

Having a meal plan means more than just convenience - it's your key to enjoying craveable meals across campus. With chef-inspired menus, local ingredients, and sustainable practices, your dining experience is as dynamic as campus life.

What is a Meal Plan?

A Meal Plan unlocks delicious meals, coffee, snacks, and more, at all Laker Food Co. locations on the Valley and City Campuses. Your Meal Plan includes Meal Swipes and Dining Dollars, conveniently loaded onto your student ID. No need to carry additional cards!

Your Meal Plan Access

  • Dining Dollars

    Dining Dollars are prepaid funds that can be used at any campus dining location to conveniently purchase food, snacks, and beverages. 

    Add Dining Dollars Here
  • Meal Swipes

    Meal Swipes give you access to all-you-care-to-eat dining halls, offering variety of delicious and fresh options for every meal.

  • Meal Combos

    Meal Exchange lets you trade a Meal Swipe for select menu items at participating campus retail locations, giving you more flexibility on the go.

    Learn About Combo Meals

Don't Miss These Dates

Mark your calendar! Each semester, important dates like the start of meal plan usage, when to make changes, and deadlines for billing and sign-ups keeps your plan running smoothly.

August 26:  Meal Plans Activate

Laker Food Co. service begins and you may start using your meal plan.

September 4:  Last Day to Bill

Last day to bill your fall meal plan to your student account. (Purchases can still be made online with a credit card or visit Commons 108 to request student account billing.)

September 4:  Last Day to Change Meal Plan

Last day to change or cancel your meal plan.

November 23:  Early Meal Plan Sign Up

Sign up begins for Winter meal plans.  

Hungry For More Info?

Find the perfect meal plan, explore flexible options, or get oriented with your campus dining experience.

  • Find Your Fit

    Use our recommendation tool to find the perfect meal plan that matches your campus needs.

    Find Your Perfect Plan
  • Meal Plan Options

    Choose from a variety of meal plans designed to provide flexibility and convenience for everyone. 

    Browse Meal Plans
  • Meal Plan Orientation

    Explore your campus dining experience with a guide to dining halls, featured locations, and more.

    Get Started

Dine With Confidence!

Manage your meal plan with ease. Learn how to check your balance and set alerts.

Meal Plan FAQs

Have questions about your Meal Plan? Our FAQs are here to help you learn everything you need to manage your plan and make the most of eating on campus. From how to get started to maximizing your benefits, you’ll find the answers right here.