For the 2024-2025 academic year, all USC Housing’s undergraduate residents will have required (mandatory) meal plans that can be used in the residential dining halls.

Freshmen (First Years):

  • All freshmen (first year) undergraduates will be assigned the default full meal plan (Cardinal Plan.)  This applies in all USC Housing facilities, including residence halls (dorms), suites and apartments.

All Undergraduate Upperclassmen:

  • All undergraduate upperclassmen (sophomores, juniors and seniors) assigned to apartment facilities will be assigned the default partial meal plan (Apartment Plan.)
  • All undergraduate upperclassmen (sophomores, juniors and seniors) assigned to residence halls (dorms) and suite facilities will be assigned the default full meal plan (Cardinal Plan.)

Graduate Students:

Graduate students will not have a required meal plan.

Please visit the USC Hospitality website for the most current information regarding meal plans.


Meal plan provisions and locations are subject to local health authority restrictions and guidelines.

2024-2025 Residential Meal Plans

2024-2025 Residential Meal Plans
Meal PlanTypeCost per Semester
CardinalFull (default plan)$3,830
TrojanFull (optional upgrade)$4,385
Apartment PlanPartial (default plan)$835