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 access to all-you-care-to-eat cafés and locations across Howard University's campus. Each plan includes Meal Swipes and Dining Dollars (DB), both conveniently loaded onto your Bison One Card.
Your Meal Plan Access
Meal Swipes
Meal Swipes provide entry to Bethune Annex Café and Blackburn Café, both are all-you-care-to-eat dining halls with 15–20 hot and cold serving stations. Each swipe equals one entry.
Dining Dollars
Dining Dollars are a tax-free way to purchase meals, snacks, and drinks at on-campus retail locations!
Guest Meals
Students with block meals may use a swipe as a guest swipe at their discretion.
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. You can check your Meal Swipes and Dining Dollars balance on the Bison One Card portal.
January 4th, 2025: Dining Services Begin
Dining Services begins and you may start using your meal plan.
January 23rd, 2025: Last Day to Change Meal Plan
Last day to change or cancel your meal plan.
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 PlanMeal Plan Options
Choose from a variety of meal plans designed to provide flexibility and convenience for everyone.
Browse Meal PlansMeal 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 campus dining. From how to get started to maximizing your benefits, you’ll find the answers you need right here.