Luther College Dining Services FAQs

Why don't on-campus meal plans for 14 meals per week or 175 and 150 meals per semester cost less than full board (20 meals)?

The answer is in the "missed meal factor." On average, the vast majority of students eat 12 to 14 meals per week. While it is true some students average less than 10 meals per week, even fewer eat all 20. By charging the same rate to all, we can offer a lower across-the-board average cost to everyone. Those who know they will never eat more than 14 meals a week can have Dining Dollars to spend for that occasional early morning snack in Oneota Market, breakfast in the caf, a discount at Peace Brunch, or maybe a purchase in our C-Store or late night pizza in Marty's.

What are temp cards?

Temp cards work just like your regular ID card. While you have a temp card issued in your name, your regular ID card will not work. Temp cards are issued by the Dining Services Office to students who have forgotten or misplaced their IDs. Temp cards may be used for up to three business days. If a temp card is not returned within three business days, there will be a $10 fee. Students are allowed only two cards free of charge each semester. There is a $10 fee for those who have used more than two per semester.

What if I lose my ID or it is stolen?

The Dining Services Office can replace your ID card for at $25 fee. Please call and let us know (x1030 or 563-387-1030) if you believe your card has been stolen so that we may prevent any unauthorized charges on the card. If not reported, you may be responsible for any charges that occur.

What does "low balance" mean?

If you are on the 14-meal per week plan, you are only allowed to eat that number of meals in the week. Your board plan week begins on Monday at breakfast and ends Sunday at dinner. If your card scans "low balance" and you choose to sign the cashier's log to eat, you will be charged for that meal.

What is the difference between Dining Dollars and NordiCash?

Dining Dollars can be used anywhere you can buy food on campus: Marty's, Oneota Market, Sunnyside Cafe, Marty's C-Store, Peace Brunch and the cafeteria. Dining Dollars are associated with meal plans and cannot be refunded. You may purchase extra Dining Dollars from the Dining Services Office. NordiCash can be used anywhere you can spend money on campus: Marty's, Oneota Market, Sunnyside Cafe, Marty's C-Store, the cafeteria, Book Shop, Document Center, post office, and Luther's box office. NordiCash can be purchased from the Financial Services Office and can be refunded if any remains when you graduate.

What are meal transfers?

If you do not wish to eat in the cafeteria or cannot eat while the caf is open, you may do a meal transfer at either Marty's or Oneota. Meal transfers are available:

Oneota Market
Breakfast - 7:30 a.m. to 9:55 a.m.; Lunch - 9:56 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Dinner - 3:01 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. You may spend up to $4.95 per meal transfer from the menu. The following items cannot be purchased using a meal transfer: Bottled drinks, sushi
Marty's
Breakfast - 9:00 a.m. to 9:55 a.m.; Lunch 9:56 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and dinner 3:01 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. You may spend up to $4.95 per meal transfer from the menu. Combo meals are adjusted to cost one meal transfer. The following items cannot be purchased using a meal transfer: Bottled beverages, sushi, cookies, desserts, slushies, blended coffee drinks, espresso or other hot drinks, ice cream and ice cream drinks

Are meals served on campus during Christmas and spring break?

No, the cafeteria is closed.