Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Do I need to purchase a meal plan?

A: Yes! It’s a great value and it is Shenandoah University’s policy that all students living on campus purchase a meal plan each semester.

Q:  What are Flex Dollars?

A: Flex dollars are cash values included in all meal plans. They work like a pre-paid debit card with funds kept on your Hornet Card. Flex Dollars may be used at any on-campus dining location, as well as a variety of off-campus establishments that are listed on our website. 15-meal  and 19-meal plans come with $50.00 preloaded. 50-Block meal plan comes with $75.

Q: Do Flex Dollars carry over from year to year?

A: Flex dollars, which come preloaded with your meal plan, do not carry over semesters.

Q: Can I use my meal card to pay for meals for family or friends?

A: There are two options: The student with the 19-meal plan can use 3 guest passes, students with Commuter block meal plan are provided with 5. Or use flex or cash or credit.

Q: What are hornet dollars?

A: Money the student can load onto the student’s account accessed through the Hornet Card.  This money remains in the account until you use it.

Q:How can I add Hornet Dollars to my hornet card?

A: You personally go to the business office (located in Wilkins), or do add money by phone at (540) 665-4514 or online.

Q:  How much will I need to add to my Hornet Card to ensure I have enough money for food?

A: Each student is different. You need to consider appetite, food preferences, meal frequency, eating patterns, and amount of time spent on campus. All of these factors contribute to the need for additional funds.

Q: How do I access/use my Resident Meal Plan account?

A: At any SU dining locations as well as select off campus establishments. See Shenandoahdining.com for participating locations

Q:  If I’m not a Resident Hall Student, where do I buy my meal plan?

A: If you live off campus, you can purchase a traditional meal plan through the business office in Wilkins.

Q:  How can I tell how much I still have in my account?

A: There are two ways to check:

1) Your remaining account balance is printed on every receipt.

2) You can ask the cashier for a ‘balance inquiry’ at any register, no purchase necessary.

Q:  Do you have employment opportunities for students?

A: Of course. We invite students to seek employment with us, as we are the largest employer of students on campus. Please contact our office for information at (540) 665-4924.

Q: How can I use my meal plan in the retail operation?

A: Meal plan options are posted at each retail location on campus. Order anything off the menu and use the meal plan as a portion of the purchase, use flex or cash to pay remaining balance.