Students randomly selected for the pilot are allowed to rollover a maximum of four swipes per week throughout the Winter 2025 quarter. If they choose to continue, they will be allowed to do so through Spring 2025. At the beginning of every quarter, meal plans reset because our system requires us to issue a new plan. Any rollover swipes must be used by the end of the quarter.
In addition to rollover meals, students in the pilot will be allowed to share two meal swipes per week with UCSB student guests.
We will assess the data gathered to determine the pilot’s results and a process for implementing the programs for Fall Quarter 2025. This will include assessing programmatic costs and developing a marketing plan for the student community to ensure that those who participate in the meal plan programs, either in our mandatory or optional plans, are fully aware of the opportunities they have to experience great food.
There will likely be some changes to our existing meal plans as this data unfolds and we continue receiving feedback from our stakeholders. We will, however, always keep a 10-meal plan or its equivalent as part of our meal offerings.
*Pilot is not related to the permanent meal swipe donation program.
Q&A
Students were selected with a random lottery system to target 10% of the meal plan holder population. A test population is necessary to determine if changes to the current meal plans are in the best interest of students.
No, once you have selected the Pilot Meal Plan you will not be able to change your meal plan during the current quarter.
This pilot does not affect your Cal-Fresh standing because your meal plan is the same, with additional features that do not change the cost of the plan.
Guests are other UCSB students who you wish to bring with you, as a part of your meal plan, to enjoy a meal at the dining commons.
No, unused rollover swipes will expire at the end of the quarter.
We will assess the data gathered to determine the pilot’s results and a process for implementing the programs for Fall Quarter 2025. This will include assessing programmatic costs and developing a marketing plan for the student community to ensure that those who participate in the meal plan programs, either in our mandatory or optional plans, are fully aware of the opportunities they have to experience great food.
For additional questions or concerns, please contact housing-frontdesk@ucsb.edu