Freshmen students have the opportunity to adjust dining plans to better suit their campus dining routines from Oct. 16 to Nov. 13. This will be the only opportunity for freshmen to change dining plans this academic school year, according to Cal Poly services.
“Starting college is a big adjustment, eating habits and routines can shift a lot during those first few weeks,” Russell Monteath, the director of commercial services at Cal Poly said. “The change period gives freshmen students the flexibility to review how they’re using their plan and make sure it fits their needs before winter quarter begins.”
The opportunity to switch gives freshmen a chance to rectify their selection, giving students more flexibility in their dining plans, according to Monteath.
“The change period is meant to meet students where they are, it’s not about limiting anyone, but about helping them find the right balance for their needs,” Monteath said.
Freshmen students have been considering what this switch could mean for them.
“I was definitely thinking about switching,” Maija Prinkki, a business administration freshman said. “But the limited plan has worked pretty well for me.”
Ella Vahabzadeh, a biomedical engineering freshman who is also on the limited plan, echoes a similar sentiment.
“I’ve been eating at least two meals out and I have been fine with my dining dollars,” Vahabzadeh said.
Monteath encourages students to review their current spending habits using the Balance Tracker tool. Students should also be aware that $500 in unused Dining Dollars will automatically roll into the next quarter, while anything above that amount will expire at the end of the quarter.
“The $500 rollover limit is designed to encourage students to use their plan regularly throughout the year,” Monteath said. “It supports healthy eating habits, connection with the campus community and helps students make the most of their dining experience during their first year.”
Changes made to dining plans will take effect at the start of winter quarter 2026.
“This opportunity is about supporting students’ success, well-being and comfort,” Monteath said. “We want them to feel confident that their dining plan works for their lifestyle, whether that means moving up or down a level.”
Campus dining began offering this change period every fall since 2019 based on student feedback. Returning students on Community Dining Plans have full flexibility to change or cancel their plan at any time throughout the year.