WMU room and board rates for 2019-20 to rise by 3.12%

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Acting at its April 24 meeting, the Western Michigan University Board of Trustees approved a 3.12% increase in room and board rates for the 2019-20 academic year. The new rates will provide continued support for educational living environments that are affordable, safe and attractive. 

In 2018-19, WMU operated 22 residence halls, five dining facilities, seven cafés and five apartment-style complexes. In the fall 2018 semester, 5,083 residents lived on campus, and 89.5% of degree-seeking, first-time freshmen chose to live in residence halls.  

Starting fall 2019, the annual cost for room and board in a traditional residence hall with a 14-meal plan option will be $10,037. The rate changes will support ongoing maintenance, updates and development in WMU's residential neighborhoods that provide an essential foundation for student engagement and support. Complete rates for all residence halls with varying meal plan levels can be found on the Residence Life website.

This fall, WMU Dining Services will be offering new meal plan selections in an ongoing effort to modernize the campus dining experience. Three residence hall meal plans with a variety of combined access to dining centers, dining dollars and guest passes will be available to students.

The new board meal plan structure simplifies meal plan options, while continuing to offer convenient locations and dining selections at affordable rates. 

WMU is committed to creating dynamic residential spaces where students want to pursue their academic and career goals. In the South Residential Neighborhood, transformational projects are moving forward quickly. Arcadia Flats, the newest housing complex, is scheduled to open fall 2020 and offer a combination of living styles that will complement the current housing selections. A new student center and residential dining facility are also planned in the area, serving as a central gathering point for the entire campus community.

The new student center, housing and dining projects are part of a long-range strategy designed to provide flexible living areas across campus and meet the needs of diverse student populations. 

Details about long-term planning are available here. 

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.