Religious Food Exemptions

Procedures for Requesting a Religious Food Exemption from the Meal Plan

Purpose
Illinois Wesleyan University is committed to supporting the religious practices of all students. Students whose sincerely held religious beliefs prevent them from fully participating in the campus meal plan may request a religious food exemption, in accordance with the following procedures.

Request Submission
Students seeking a religious exemption from the University meal plan must submit a request using this form.

Required Documentation
The request must include a letter from a recognized religious leader (e.g., pastor, imam, rabbi) outlining how long they have known the student, the required dietary needs consistent with faith practices, and affirming that the request is based on sincerely held religious beliefs. This letter must also include the telephone number and email address of the religious leader providing the letter. 

Review and Approval Process
The Multifaith Engagement Coordinator or designee will review the request and accompanying documentation.

Upon review, the request will either be approved, denied, or returned for additional information.

The decision will be communicated via email to: Associate Director of Residential Life for Housing Operations, the Director of Dining Services, and copied to: Director of Residence Life.

Refund Eligibility
If a refund is associated with an approved exemption, it will follow the university’s refund policy.

Deadline for Refund
Any refund related to a religious exemption must be requested by the University’s last day to withdraw from classes with a “W” as noted on the academic calendar.

Conditions and Rescission
Religious exemptions from the meal plan may be rescinded if misused.

The Dean of Students Office reserves the right to investigate and rescind exemptions in cases where the accommodation is found to be abused or misrepresented.

Annual Renewal Required
Approved religious exemptions are valid for one fall/spring academic year only.

Students must submit a new exemption request and updated letter from a recognized religious leader by June 1st of each year.