MEAL PLANS
College life can be challenging, but dining should be effortless. That's why all students living on campus are required to participate in a meal plan.
All students living on campus are required to participate in a meal plan. We offer by-the-week plans and by-the-semester plans, both of which offer a set number of meal swipe options as well as meal plan points.
Dining Plans are selected through the MCR Housing Portal at https://otter.mcrhousing.app/
Questions about Meal Plans? Contact Residence Life office at
reslife@otterbein.edu
2025-2026 Meal Plan Options
plan options
Select a meal plan to view more details.
CARDINAL MEAL PLAN
19 meals per week
Great for students who want the freedom and convenience of enjoying 2-3 meals per day on campus.
One meal is available to use during the 19 meal periods each week.
150 MEAL PLAN
150 meals per semester | $225 Cardinal Dollars
Great for students who need fewer meals but still want the flexibility of dining at any location on campus. Averages 9 meals per week.
210 MEAL PLAN
210 meals per semester | $150 Cardinal Dollars
Great for students who want to eat most of their meals on campus, while also enjoying
occasional snacks and beverages. Averages 13 meals per week.
120 MEAL PLAN
120 meals per semester | $260 Cardinal Dollars
Great for students who make some of their own meals and want the convenience of meals
and snacks throughout campus. Averages 7 meals per week.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ Section Header
Who is required to have a meal plan?
All Otterbein resident students, except those living in university Theme Houses or the Commons Apartments, are required to have a meal plan.
May I use my meal plan for a guest?
Students with our 210, 150, or 120 block meal plans can use a meal swipe for a guest meal in the Cardinal’s Nest. Cardinal Dollars, Munch Money, cash, or credit can also be used to purchase guest meals.
What is an All-You-Care-To-Eat Meal?
For one meal at the Cardinal’s Nest, you may come back as often as you want in one sitting. To help curb food waste, please do not take more than you can eat.
What is a meal exchange?
The Point offers meal exchange whenever they are open. With meal exchange, guests can get a basic bundled meal option for a meal plan swipe. They are also available during Late Night hours in the Nest. Students can use meal exchange for nearly all of the menu items.
I have special dietary needs or restrictions. Is there anything for me to eat?
Yes! We understand the diverse needs of the Otterbein campus community and offer a variety of diet-conscious alternatives such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, and more at every location. We encourage you to talk to our team if you have any questions!
Do students have input in the menu selections ordered?
You bet! We have QR codes at all of our retail locations where you can share any feedback or suggestions.
Can I take a meal from Cardinal’s Nest to go?
Reusable takeout containers are available in Cardinal’s Nest. Ask the cashier for one when entering and fill with your favorite items. When you’re done, bring the container back for a clean one or drop it off at the register! Perfect for students on the go!
What are Cardinal Dollars?
Cardinal Dollars are included with most of the meal plans and can be used at any campus dining location, whether you’re needing a Starbucks® coffee from OtterBean or a freshly made sandwich from The Point Cafe.
Unused Cardinal Dollars carry over from fall to spring term, but expire at the end of the academic year. When you run out of Cardinal Dollars, Munch Money can be added.
What is Munch Money?
Munch Money is like Cardinal Dollars but can be purchased and added to an account at any time. Munch Money can also be used at any dining location on campus, including the Cafe at the Point. Munch Money does not expire at the semester end. After graduation or the student's last term in attendance, any unused Munch Money will be refunded.
Add Munch Money! Call Student Accounts Ofice at 614-823-1151
or
Add Munch Money! CLICK HERE!
On Campus Residents Plans
Plan A
21 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
21 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Required Plan for all residential First Years and Sophomores, also available to all Junior, Seniors and Commuters.
$3,495 per semester
Plan B
21 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
21 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Required Plan for all residential First Years and Sophomores, also available to all Junior, Seniors and Commuters.
$3,495 per semester
14 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
14 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Available to all Juniors, Seniors & Commuters. 2025-26 Rising Sophomores may also purchase this plan this year.
$3,095 per semester
Commuter Plans
Plan A
21 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
21 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Required Plan for all residential First Years and Sophomores, also available to all Junior, Seniors and Commuters.
$3,495 per semester
Plan B
21 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
21 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Required Plan for all residential First Years and Sophomores, also available to all Junior, Seniors and Commuters.
$3,495 per semester
14 Meal Swipes per week
+ $200 Meal Points per semester
14 meal swipes (all-you-care-to-eat or idealMEAL) per week plus $200 meal points to use for guest meals, retail locations and our market.
Available to all Juniors, Seniors & Commuters. 2025-26 Rising Sophomores may also purchase this plan this year.
$3,095 per semester
Staff Dining Services
Our staff members are an essential part of the Loyola community. Enjoy a variety of dining options, from quick lunches to catered events, designed just for you.