At Tech Dining, we’ve created a supportive process for students who need a religious exemption from the mandatory meal plan (First Year Students).
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How to Request a Religious Exemption
Submit a Request
- Please submit a Customer Support Ticket to provide us a written request.
- Include specific details about your religious dietary restrictions and practices.
Provide Documentation
- Submit a letter or verification from a religious leader or organization.
- Optionally, include a personal statement describing how these dietary needs affect your daily and academic life.
Meet with Our Dietician
- After reviewing your request, we may schedule a meeting with the Tech Dining Dietician to explore accommodations.
Committee Review & Decision
- The Exemption Committee, made up of key Dining leadership and the Dietician, will review your case.
- You’ll receive a written decision within two weeks.
If Approved:
- You may receive a reduced-cost meal plan or alternative meal options tailored to your needs.
- We’ll work with you to ensure your dietary practices are respected.
If Denied:
You may appeal within one week of receiving the decision by contacting the Director of Customer Experience.
Religious Practices |
General Exemption Policy |
|---|---|
Halal |
Tech Dining offers a wide variety of Halal options across both our dining halls and retail locations. At this time, Tech Dining does not offer meal plan exemptions for this religious diet. We serve several Halal-certified meats daily, and many of our retail vendors also provide Halal-certified menu items. These offerings are designed to meet the needs of those who follow a Halal diet. If you have specific questions or dietary concerns, please don’t hesitate to submit a Customer Support Ticket. |
Vegan/ Vegetarian/ Gluten-Free |
Tech Dining is committed to supporting diverse dietary needs with a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options across our dining halls and retail locations. At this time, Tech Dining does not offer meal plan exemptions for this these dietary constraints. Our menus feature clearly labeled meals that cater to these diets, including plant-based dishes and items prepared without gluten-containing ingredients. Many retail vendors also offer selections that align with these dietary lifestyles. If you have specific questions or dietary concerns, please submit a Customer Support Ticket—we’re here to help ensure everyone can dine with confidence. |
Jain/Jain (Swaminarayan) |
Tech Dining is proud to support Jain dietary practices by offering Jain-friendly meal options and clear labeling at select locations. At this time, Tech Dining does not offer meal plan exemptions for this religious diet. Rooted in the principle of ahimsa (non-violence), the Jain diet excludes meat, eggs, root vegetables, and certain other ingredients to minimize harm to living beings. Our offerings are carefully curated to align with these values, and signage is provided to help guests make informed choices. For questions or additional dietary support, please submit a support request. We have additional options for students that follow stricter guidelines. To discuss these options, please submit a Customer Support Ticket to meet with our dietician. |
Kosher |
Please submit a Customer Support Ticket to meet with our dietician to discuss alternate dining options. At this time, Tech Dining does not offer meal plan exemptions for this religious diet. |
Questions?
Reach out to Houston Freeman, Director of Customer Experience: hfreeman38@gatech.edu
We’re committed to honoring your beliefs while ensuring you feel supported and nourished every step of the way.