Maximizing Campus Dining: The Benefits of Dining Dollars

 

Saving money on campus dining has never been easier for students with our Dining Dollars Program. Offering flexibility and savings, Dining Dollars provide access to a variety of delicious options across UMD. Whether you're a student, staff, faculty member, or visitor, knowing about this program can help you stay informed about the best ways students can enjoy a budget-friendly dining experience on campus.

Group of UMD Students hanging out and eating in the Food Court
Students love hanging out in the Food Court with their friends between classes. It’s a great place to use those Dining Dollars and save some money.

What Are Dining Dollars?

Dining Dollars are a flexible, reloadable currency tied directly to a student's U Card. They can be used at all UMD Dining Services locations, including Superior Dining, the Food Court, coffee shop, and kiosks across campus. Best of all, Dining Dollars are tax-exempt, saving students more than 11% on every food purchase compared to using cash or credit.

Why Dining Dollars Matter

Even if a student has a meal plan, Dining Dollars offer access to a wider range of dining options on campus. Whether they're grabbing a smoothie between classes, enjoying a coffee break, or stocking up on snacks for a study session, Dining Dollars give students the freedom to explore all the dining choices UMD has to offer.

Managing Dining Dollars

Adding more Dining Dollars is easy! Students can top up their balance anytime through the GET app or by visiting the U Card Office. With this convenience, they’ll always have funds available for their favorite meals or quick bites.

Student doing homework in Northern Shores Coffee Shop with an iced latte
Many students use their Dining Dollars to grab a latte and do some studying in Northern Shores Coffee Shop.

Rollover Perks

Any unused Dining Dollars from the fall semester automatically roll over into the spring semester, giving students more flexibility throughout the academic year. However, they should be sure to use them by the last day of the spring semester, as they expire after that. Students can check their balance at any time using the GET app.

Dining Dollars and Meal Plans

Dining Dollars pair perfectly with our Block Meal Plans, especially for commuting students and those living in on-campus apartments. This combination allows for a balanced approach to dining with a mix of full meals and snacks. For students living on campus, $100 in Dining Dollars is automatically included each semester, giving them a head start on exploring UMD’s dining options.

a look at The Gadget from the Lake Superior Hall hallway
The Gadget is a kiosk located right where Superior Hall and Griggs Hall connect. It’s the perfect place to grab latenight snacks with those Dining Dollars.

Why Choose Dining Dollars?

Dining Dollars aren’t just a convenient way for students to pay for meals—they’re a smart way to save. With tax exemption, access to a variety of dining locations, and easy balance management, Dining Dollars ensure students are well-nourished and ready to take on everything UMD has to offer.