If you’re planning to attend Indiana University Bloomington, you might be wondering how much it will cost to live on campus. Living in a dorm can be a great way to make friends, get involved in campus activities, and enjoy the convenience of being close to your classes. But it can also be a significant expense, depending on the type of room and meal plan you choose.
The cost of living in a dorm at Indiana University ranges from $4,070 to $5,142 per semester for a 7-day meal plan, and from $3,120 to $4,192 per semester for a 5-day meal plan. These costs include unlimited access to all-you-care-to-eat dining halls, as well as dining dollars and meal exchanges that can be used at other campus locations.
Dorm Room Options at Indiana University
Indiana University offers a variety of dorm room options for students, from standard rooms with shared bathrooms to suites and apartments with private bathrooms and kitchens. The cost of each room type varies depending on the location, size, and amenities of the building. Here is a comparison chart of the most common room types and their costs per semester:
Room Type | Features | Cost Per Semester |
---|---|---|
Standard without AC | Community bathrooms, basic furniture | $2,035 |
Standard with AC | Community or semi-private bathrooms, basic furniture | $2,303 |
Enhanced | Suites or apartments with shared full bathrooms, AC, kitchenette or full kitchen | $2,571 |
Meal Plans at Indiana University
Indiana University requires all first-time residents living in a residence hall or furnished apartment to purchase a 7-day or 5-day meal plan. These plans include unlimited entries to all-you-care-to-eat dining halls, as well as dining dollars and meal exchanges that can be used at pay-as-you-go locations or for guest meals. Here is a comparison chart of the meal plans and their costs per semester:
Meal Plan | Dining Hall Entries | Meal Exchanges | Dining Dollars | Cost Per Semester |
---|---|---|---|---|
IU 7-Day Classic | Unlimited | 3 per week | $50 | $2,035 |
IU 7-Day Enhanced | Unlimited | 4 per week | $250 | $2,303 |
IU 7-Day Max | Unlimited | 5 per week | $450 | $2,571 |
IU 5-Weekday | Unlimited (Monday-Friday) | 3 per week | $50 | $1,560 |
How Does Indiana University Compare to Similar Schools?
Indiana University’s dorm costs are comparable to those of other large public universities in the Midwest region. For example, Purdue University charges $2,350 to $3,150 per semester for standard rooms with AC and shared bathrooms, and $2,050 to $2,850 per semester for a 7-day meal plan. Michigan State University charges $2,494 to $3,494 per semester for standard rooms with AC and shared bathrooms, and $2,325 to $2,725 per semester for a 7-day meal plan.
Indiana University’s dorm costs also include some benefits that may not be available at other schools, such as:
- A wide range of room types and locations to suit different preferences and budgets
- A large campus with a 520-acre nature park and a biology lab in the Florida Keys
- An active performing arts program and five different honors programs
- A chapter of Phi Beta Kappa for strengths in the liberal arts and sciences
- A strong study abroad program and high job placement rates
FAQs
Q: Can I change my room type or meal plan after I apply?
A: Yes, you can change your room type or meal plan until May 10 by revisiting your housing application online. You can also request a room change after you move in by contacting your residence hall staff. However, keep in mind that room changes are subject to availability and approval.
Q: Can I live off-campus or in a fraternity or sorority house?
A: You are required to live on campus your first year unless you qualify for an exemption based on certain criteria such as age, marital status, military service, or medical condition. You can apply for an exemption online by June 1. After your first year, you can choose to live off-campus or in a fraternity or sorority house if you wish.
Summary
Living in a dorm at Indiana University can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience that will enhance your academic and social life. The cost of living in a dorm ranges from $4,070 to $5,142 per semester for a 7-day meal plan, and from $3,120 to $4,192 per semester for a 5-day meal plan. These costs include unlimited access to dining halls, as well as dining dollars and meal exchanges that can be used at other campus locations. Indiana University’s dorm costs are comparable to those of other similar schools, and also include some unique benefits and opportunities. If you’re interested in living in a dorm at Indiana University, you can apply online through the Residential Programs and Services website.