New ways to enjoy Findlay Commons!

Penn State Housing and Food Services (HFS) is set to launch updated dining plans for the 2027-28 academic year, according to a news release.

The new plans will give students more flexibility and make it easier for families to understand the plan’s true value. Campus meal plans will now be split into two categories.

The Signature Plan, equivalent to the old Campus Plan, is for students who eat regularly on campus and will be included in the HFS contract.

Instead of the three-tier system the Campus Plan used, the Signature Plan will let students earn dining dollars throughout the semester based on their dining habits.

A new Classic Plan will also replace the Commuter Meal Plan. The Classic Plan is built for students in off-campus or on-campus apartments who still want access to dining halls.

The Classic Plan will be available at $250, $500, or $1,000.

“We are excited to roll out the updated dining plan over the next year,” Jim Meinecke, senior director of Food Services, said in the release. “The adjusted options are designed to make dining convenient and flexible, with access to meals, snacks and beverages across Penn State locations.”

Much of the on-campus dining experience will remain the same, including the current discounts available to students and guests. LionCash will also continue to work at dining locations around campus.

However, new signage at dining locations will help identify each location’s true value. Dining areas will be classified as one of “Best Value,” “Better Value,” or “Premium Brand.”

The changes to the meal plans follow more than 10 months of focus groups and surveys with students, families, and staff to help Penn State better understand the dining experience.

“The refreshed dining plan builds on the strengths of Penn State’s dining program while introducing enhancements that make the experience simpler, more flexible, and easier to navigate,” Meinecke said.

“Shaped by the voices of students, families, and staff, the updates position Housing and Food Services to better serve future generations of Penn Staters and help them make the most of their campus experience.”