Prepaid catered halls - frequently asked questions

Find more information on our prepaid catered halls package
Student getting some food in Drake's Cafe as part of our prepaid catered halls scheme

Who can use it?

The prepaid catered halls package is available to students studying at the University of Plymouth, regardless of their year or course.

Why should I sign up?

It is convenient and provides tasty, local and healthy foods Monday to Friday, 34 weeks of the year. It provides an alternative to the worry of having to manage budgeting. It is a great solution for someone with a busy lifestyle and most importantly there is no washing up!

How does it work?

Prepaid catered halls offers a stress free and flexible prepaid approach to eating during term times. The dates that the prepaid catered halls offer is available are:
  • Monday 15 September 2025 – Friday 12 December 2025
  • Monday 5 January 2026 – Friday 29 May 2026

What is the cost?

The total amount of £1,700 is due when your place at University has been confirmed.
Closing date for the prepaid catered halls offer for September 2025 is midnight on Sunday 7 September 2025.
You will be asked to confirm the name of the student, a valid contact number and if you have any dietary requirements.
Please read the prepaid catering package terms and conditions 25–26 . When making payment you will be asked to confirm that you have read and that you accept these terms and conditions.

Can my dietary requirements be catered for?

The majority of dietary requirements or allergens can be catered for by our team. A vegetarian and gluten free meal will always be available at meal times. If you do have a dietary requirement or allergen and would like to discuss, please contact the catering office by email: catering@plymouth.ac.uk

How many meals are provided?

Breakfast and an evening meal are included in the prepaid catered halls package.
These are provided Monday – Friday for 34 weeks excluding the Christmas break and Bank Holidays.

Where are the meals served?

What is included?

Breakfast will consist of:
  • five item cooked breakfast or
  • breakfast bap / wrap or
  • cold breakfast (cereal, fruit, pastries and yoghurt),
  • all served with tea and coffee, water or fruit juice.
Dinner will be two courses (main meal and dessert). There will be two options – a meat based meal or a vegetarian meal which will also be gluten free. Served with tea and coffee, water or fruit juice.
Please see our prepaid catering package sample menu for further details.

Can I swap breakfast or dinner for lunch?

Unfortunately no, the package covers breakfast and an evening meal.

Can I sign up half way through the year?

Currently the prepaid catered halls package is only available to students who sign up at the beginning of each academic year.

Can I sign up for prepaid catered halls a term at a time?

Currently the prepaid catered halls package is only available to students who sign up at the beginning of each academic year.

Can I get a refund for any meals I miss?

A refund will not be given if you miss any meals or if you do not take all or any of the meals provided whilst living in the accommodation or during the academic year, or if the food offered is not to your personal preference.

Terms and conditions

Catering events