9 Best Meal Delivery Services for Students in 2024

The abundance of meal delivery services can be overwhelming. In today's fast-paced world, there's a dizzying array of options to pick from. Choosing one that perfectly matches your budget, cooking skill level, and dietary needs is vital. Not only does it affect your health, but the right service can also make your busy student life more manageable.

I’ve reviewed dozens of meal delivery services to help you decide. My in-depth analysis includes features like price point, flexibility of subscriptions, variety in meal offerings, user-friendly services, and eco-friendliness. My team and I have tested every service on this shortlist at home to decide which are the best for students.

Factor stands out as the top recommendation for students. Factor's meals are designed to be microwave-ready, ensuring minimal effort on your part. They always arrive fresh and are crafted to cater to a diverse array of dietary requirements. Keep reading to find a meal delivery service that aligns seamlessly with your needs and lifestyle.

The Best Meal Delivery Services for Students Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Overall Meal Delivery for Students

Factor offers fully-prepared microwavable meals that are ready to enjoy in minutes. For students rushing between classes or settling down for a late-night study session, this convenience is invaluable. Instead of turning to unhealthy fast food or skipping meals, you can have a balanced meal without the usual prep or cleanup.

What’s on the Menu?

Factor boasts a wide range of dietary options. It caters primarily to omnivores, but it has options for pescatarians, keto dieters, and flexitarians, too. For special nights and occasions, I recommend checking out the Gourmet Plus and Top-Rated meals. I like the look of the Top Rated Grilled Chicken Parmesan and the Baja Salmon.

But at least 3 veggie meals are available every week. Whether you're a dedicated vegetarian or someone looking to reduce meat intake for health or environmental reasons, it provides diverse choices like the Peanut Buddha Bowl (pictured). Read more about the menu offerings in our tested Factor review.

Beyond the main meals, you can browse a range of add-ons. These include juices, smoothies, and breakfast options. Morning lectures can be a drag, but starting the day with a nutritious breakfast from Factor can set you on the right path.

What Makes It Special?

The service’s meals arrive fresh, requiring storage in the fridge. That means no fussing about freezer space, a precious commodity in shared student housing or dorms. Plus, the fresh ingredients make meals taste homemade, offering comfort away from home.

For those who work out or are active, Factor offers a high-protein plan tailored for muscle repair and growth. Whether you're hitting the campus gym or part of a sports team, the right protein intake aids recovery and performance.

Every Factor customer can benefit from a free 20-minute nutrition consultation. This feature is a boon for students, whether you're trying to manage weight, bulk up, or simply adopt healthier eating habits. Gaining insights from a professional can be a game-changer in your nutritional journey.

Is It Good Value?

High-quality ingredients without preservatives are a staple at Factor. It understands that students need nourishment for their brain and body. Consuming clean and healthy meals not only fuels those long study hours but also supports overall well-being during the stressful college years.

Affordability is crucial for students. The best-value option offers 18 single-serving meals for $103.41 on your first purchase if you use our link. Sharing meals with roommates or friends makes this a more cost-effective solution for student life. 

2. HelloFresh – Best for Varied Weekly Menu Options

There’s lots of variety in HelloFresh's offerings. For students looking to explore different cuisines without leaving their dorm room or apartment, it delivers. From Thai stir-fries to classic American comfort food, it provides a global culinary tour.

What’s on the Menu?

The company’s dishes truly stand out. Options include the Coconut Curry Chicken, Beef and Zucchini Bibimbap. There are even Ready to Heat options like the Spicy Creole Stew and the Grilled Pork Chops. When study sessions make you crave comfort food, you can find healthier and tastier alternatives to typical fast food.

HelloFresh specializes in meal kits, so you’ll need cooking equipment and a little time to prepare most of its dishes. For an especially rewarding experience, look for meals labeled Best Recipe 2024, Hall of Fame, and Premium Picks. If time is of the essence, you’ll benefit from the 20-Min and 15-Min Dinner options, for example. 

The Market section is brimming with variety. From quick snacks to pantry essentials, the Market caters to a student's every culinary need. It's like having a mini grocery store at your fingertips, and that saves on trips to the store, too.

What Makes It Special?

Each box comes with straightforward recipe cards. As someone who has tried cooking from online recipes, I can't emphasize enough the convenience of having physical cards to refer to. Paired with step-by-step images, even the most novice student chef can whip up impressive meals. You’ll find that most recipes are rated as easy or medium.

HelloFresh offers 6 distinct menu plans, but you’re free to choose from the entire menu. Instead of being bound by a particular plan, you can mix and match. This flexibility ensures you never feel boxed into a meal routine.

When it came to customer service, we gave HelloFresh high marks. In the chaotic world of a student, mishaps can happen – maybe you forgot to customize your order or need to pause for a week. During such times, this responsive customer service can be a lifesaver.

Is It Good Value?

HelloFresh offers a wide-ranging menu that appeals to different dietary preferences and interests. It helps you explore new tastes and international dishes. And you can prepare most of its meal kits without spending a lot of time cooking. If you're in the mood for a traditional favorite or something more adventurous, HelloFresh provides suitable choices.

One thing to note is that you can’t order single servings. While it's great to have leftovers for the next day, some students might prefer a one-and-done meal. If you're in that group, Factor might be a better fit with its single-serving options.

You can order 2 to 6 meals per week with 2, 4, or 6 servings per dish. The best-value box (6 meals for 4 people) is $107.75 for the first order if you use our link. By sharing meals or storing leftovers, students can stretch their budgets and still enjoy gourmet dishes.

3. Blue Apron – Best for Cooking Between Classes

Blue Apron provides a broad range of cuisines to expand your palate. As you navigate through college life, trying different cuisines can be an exciting break from routine. Whether you're in the mood for Asian flavors, Mediterranean delights, or classic American dishes, Blue Apron has it all, ensuring you never run out of culinary adventures.

What’s on the Menu?

You can buy meal kits and ready-made meals from Blue Apron. Meal kits take more time to prepare, but they let you experiment with ingredients if you have cooking equipment. And you can swap ingredients in select dishes, which you can’t do with Prepared & Ready meals. If you prefer having both on your weekly menu, place separate orders.

On average, meal kits take 25 to 30 minutes, though some might require more time. We tried cooking with Blue Apron and found that while most recipes are quick, a few demand more time – perfect for when you want to indulge in a cooking session.

Prepared & Ready meals are single serving fresh meals you can heat up in just a few minutes. While there are some extras available, the add-ons are a bit limited compared to others. If a plethora of extras is what you're after, services like HelloFresh might be more up your alley.

What Makes It Special?

Meal kits come in options of 2 or 4 servings, making sharing easy. If you're in a dorm or shared apartment, these servings are ideal. Prepare a meal, share it with a roommate, or save some for later. It's a flexible way to dine.

It's more than just food; Blue Apron is carbon neutral and eco-friendly. For students concerned about sustainability, this is a significant aspect. It’s not only working on delivering quality meals but also ensuring the packaging is moving toward being fully recyclable.

There's a special offer for new subscribers, perfect for budget-conscious students. If you’re enrolling for the first time, you can benefit from the special student discounts and promotional prices. With textbooks, tuition, and other college expenses, saving on meals can be a welcome relief.

Is It Good Value?

Quality is paramount with seasonally sourced ingredients. Every dish you prepare isn’t just a meal but an experience. The ingredients are fresh, ensuring every bite you take is filled with flavor and nutrients. I like the look of the Crispy Skin Salmon and Caper Mayo and the Three Cheese Lasagna.

Pricing begins at $4.00 per serving for larger orders, but smaller ones won't break the bank. Opting for 5 meal kits for 4 people or 10 prepared meals per week gives you the best value. But even if you scale down, food remains affordable. Budgeting is a part of student life, and Blue Apron respects that.

4. Green Chef – Best for Eco-Conscious Student Meals

Green Chef delivers eco-conscious meals that are certified organic. With the rising awareness and concern for our planet among students, choosing a meal delivery service that aligns with these values is empowering. It lets you eat well while knowing you're supporting sustainable practices.

What’s on the Menu?

You’ll find over 45 dishes on the menu every week. Pay attention to the tags accompanying each meal to shortlist your favorites hassle-free. Some of them are Sodium Smart, Gluten-Free, Keto, and Low Added Sugar. For special occasions, like passing an exam, order Chef Select meals. There are several of these offerings available every week. Chef’s Brunch is another meal worth considering, in my opinion. 

The service’s meals range in prep time from as little as 10 minutes to a more involved 50 minutes. For students, this flexibility is a gem. Try the 10 minute Thai-Spiced Chicken Salad if you're looking for a quick bite between lectures. Or order the Harissa and Zhoug Cauliflower (pictured below) for a therapeutic cooking session on a relaxed evening.

You can complement your order with extras available in the menu's Add-ons section. There, you can find various breakfasts (like Mylk Labs Strawberry Oatmeal), ready-to-heat bites (Turkey Sausage & Cheddar Egg Bites), and desserts (Chocolate Chip Muffins), among other offerings. Salads for 2 to 4 people and bagels are also available.

What Makes It Special?

The company offers 8 distinct plans, which is more than I found in most meal delivery services. Some of them are Quick & Easy, Protein Packed, and Gut & Brain Health, so there's bound to be a fit for every student's preference. If you're someone who's always on the go or a food explorer wanting to try new flavors, it accommodates your needs.

Pre-prepped and pre-measured ingredients come in every Green Chef box. It takes out the guesswork and reduces waste. This is definitely a bonus for students who might not have a full spice rack or want to buy large quantities of an ingredient for just 1 recipe. Check out our tested Green Chef review for more about the cooking experience.

Take a free 20-minute nutrition coaching session. While college life can be a whirlwind of activities and academics, prioritizing health is paramount. This session can guide you on how to make balanced meal choices amidst the college chaos.

Is It Good Value?

Every dish is chef-curated, ensuring that the recipes are both delicious and easy to follow. It's like having a culinary mentor guide you, making the cooking process seamless. This is really helpful if you've never ventured into the world of cooking before college.

You can choose between 3 and 4 meals each week for either 2 or 6 people, or from 2 to 4 recipes for 4 people. Whether you're dining solo, with a roommate, or hosting a small study group, Green Chef can cater to your needs without any hassle.

Finally, prices start at $9.99 per serving, and the freedom to mix and match recipes between plans offers lots of variety. Being on a student budget doesn't mean compromising on quality, taste, or your eco-principles with Green Chef.

5. Home Chef – Best for Customization of Dishes

Customizing proteins is a standout feature of Home Chef. Many students, including vegetarians, pescatarians, or those simply looking for varied meals, will find this feature invaluable. With it, you're in control, ensuring each meal fits your preferences.

What’s on the Menu?

There are plenty of low-prep options on the Home Chef menu. Given how busy a student's schedule can be, having dishes that require minimal preparation is a godsend. On nights when studying runs late, quick-fix meals like the Cauliflower Curry Rice Bowl (pictured below) come to the rescue.

Home Chef has introduced prepared lunch options. These are perfect for between classes or a quick lunch break during a study session. These meals aren’t just quick, but also hearty, ensuring you're reenergized for the day's challenges. Try the Garlic Sesame Chicken Stir Fry or the Penne Bolognese with Roasted Zucchini and Onions.

The additional items expand the meal's horizon. Beyond dinners, Home Chef offers breakfasts, snacks, soups, and even desserts. It's a comprehensive service that ensures you're catered for from morning until night. You can also take advantage of some money-saving bundles like the Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup and Garlic Bread for an affordable lunch.

What Makes It Special?

I like that you can view the menu 6 weeks ahead. This feature lets you plan. If you know you have a particularly busy week or an upcoming exam, you can tailor your orders accordingly, ensuring stress-free meals.

Check out our tested Home Chef review to find out what we thought of the meals. Recipe cards are clear and detailed so that even a beginner in the kitchen can follow them and produce tasty results. We found the instructions clear and the final dishes satisfying.

Is It Good Value?

The meal subscription service caters to chefs of varying skill levels. Whether you're a novice looking to learn or an intermediate chef aiming to refine your skills, Home Chef's recipes cater to all. Over time, you'll see a notable improvement in your culinary abilities.

The cost is quite competitive, starting at $9.99 per serving. For the customization, quality, and variety offered, I believe the pricing provides good value. Students can enjoy gourmet-like meals without breaking the bank. You can order up to 6 meals per week with meals serving 2 to 6 people, so you could feed your entire dorm from a Home Chef order.

6. Purple Carrot – Great for Vegan Dorm Room Diners

Purple Carrot boasts a wholly vegan menu, celebrating plant-based delights. As you navigate through the hustle of college, it’s important to make sure that your meals remain environmentally conscious and animal-friendly.

What’s on the Menu?

This vegan-friendly service offers prepared meals, meal kits, and Less Prep options, which are something in between kits and ready-made meals. And you can mix-and-match between them. This variety ensures that even in the midst of hectic study sessions or late-night cramming, you have meal solutions that fit your timeframe.

With dinner, lunch, and breakfast options, Purple Carrot covers every mealtime. You can grab a quick breakfast like Golden Chia Pudding before class or settle down for dinner with your dorm mates. Meal kit options include Crispy Cauliflower and BBQ Corn Flatbreads. If you’re pushed for time, prepared options include a classic Mac N’ Cheese and Indian Butter Tofu.

The Plantry options are a treat. They cost extra but help expand your choices. You can find vegan cheeses, snacks, proteins, and desserts like the Vanilla Glazed Donuts. For those moments when you're craving a snack while studying or want to treat yourself after a test, the Plantry additions are perfect.

What Makes It Special?

Every recipe clearly lists allergens, and prepared meals detail every ingredient. This transparency is invaluable for those of you with allergies or particular dietary preferences. This way you always know what you're consuming.

Our tested review highlights Purple Carrot’s easy-to-prepare and flavorsome recipes. The included booklet not only guides you step-by-step but also serves as a handy reference for future cooking endeavors.

Is It Good Value?

Purple Carrot is a godsend meal subscription service for dedicated herbivores. But I keep finding testimonials where omnivores have enjoyed their meals as well. 

But if you seek more flexibility, Green Chef might be a suitable alternative. While Purple Carrot caters impeccably to the vegan palate, if you ever fancy a non-vegan day or crave more diverse options, Green Chef lets you choose dishes from any of its 8 menu plans.

Prices commence at $11.00 per serving making it a premium choice on a par with Green Chef. College budgets vary, but if high-quality, nutritious vegan meals are important to you, Purple Carrot is worth the money.

7. Dinnerly – Best for Tight Student Budgets

Dinnerly stands out as a supremely affordable option on this list. As college students, managing finances becomes an essential skill. And it’s reassuring when a service understands that meals shouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

What’s on the Menu?

With over 100 recipes, Dinnerly boasts an expansive culinary range. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or feeling adventurous, there’s likely a recipe to match your mood. You can find a range of cuisines, including classic Italian pasta dishes like Beef Ravioli, Cuban Mojo Pork Tenderloin, and Chicken Lo Mein.

Every recipe comes tagged with attributes like No Added Gluten or Under 30 Minutes. While these tags help in selection, I find the color-coded tags of Green Chef to be more intuitive. 

It’s important to eat seafood recipes within 2 days, meats in 3, and veggies within 5 for optimal freshness. These guidelines ensure that you enjoy each meal at its peak flavor and nutritional value.

What Makes It Special?

Recipe customization is a highlight, considering the value of this service. It allows swaps of sides, proteins, and pasta for gluten-free alternatives. This flexibility ensures that if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions, you can still enjoy a varied menu. The customized recipes are listed as separate dishes, so it can be tricky to find them on such a big menu.

Every dish involves a simple 5-step process but lacks accompanying images. If you're a beginner in the kitchen, this might be a bit challenging. HelloFresh has visual guides and may be a better fit for the uninitiated.

Is It Good Value?

Budget-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, and Dinnerly strikes that balance well. What’s more, all chicken is antibiotic-free, and you can even find organic ingredients from time to time. 

Starting at $2.12 per serving, Dinnerly is an unmatched choice for students watching their finances. You can order up to 6 meals per week. Offering 2-person and 4-person plans, the service is great for solitary dinners or shared meals with friends. 

Whether you’re having a quiet evening or hosting a study group, there's a plan to suit your needs. For more details on the ordering process, check out our expert Dinnerly review.

8. EveryPlate – Best for Cost-Effective, Hearty Student Meals

EveryPlate operates as the affordable arm of the HelloFresh family. When you're on a tight budget, this meal delivery service makes it possible to enjoy nutritious and tasty meals without breaking the bank.

What’s on the Menu?

The menu options may be more limited than Dinnerly's, but they won't overwhelm you with choices. As a student with limited time and resources, it's great to have a straightforward selection of meals that fit your budget and taste preferences. You could try the Creamy Dijon Chicken, or the BBQ Turkey Sloppy Joes.

EveryPlate offers more than just entrees. For an extra fee, you can buy a variety of extras. The Add-ons section includes individual proteins (such as ground beef and shrimp), vegetables (like asparagus and green beans), and pasta. Moreover, you may find sauces, bundles, and cakes on the menu. 

EveryPlate may not be the best for specialist diets, and I would recommend Green Chef if budget isn't a primary concern. If you're seeking a wider range of diet-specific options and your budget can stretch, Green Chef offers a diverse menu tailored to different dietary preferences.

What Makes It Special?

There are 5 plans available, including Veggie, Quick & Easy, and Nutrish & Delish. The last option features meals under 650 calories per serving, which is perfect for students looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

Keep an eye out for updated offers for students, as discounts can be significant. You may get 75% off your first box and enjoy further savings on future orders. As a student, any opportunity to save is welcome.

Is It Good Value?

The recipes are geared toward beginner chefs, with clear instructions. We tested EveryPlate and found the recipes easy to follow, although we did note that the steps are more involved than other services. This may mean more time in the kitchen, but the results are worth it.

Please note that ingredients aren't separated by recipe, so this requires some organization. This minor inconvenience shouldn't deter you from enjoying the value that EveryPlate offers.

Prices start at $2.49 per serving, and the minimum order is 3 meals for 2 people per week. This is an incredible deal for students who want cost-effective, hearty meals delivered straight to their doorsteps.

9. BistroMD – Best for Health-Focused College Lifestyles

BistroMD is a solid choice to align with your health goals. As college life gets busier, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet. With it, you're equipped with meals that prioritize nutrition and support your weight loss, so you don’t turn to unhealthy takeout options.

What’s on the Menu?

Meals arrive frozen, minimizing kitchen chaos. For those of you who dread the cleanup after cooking, this is a lifesaver. Simply heat, eat, and enjoy without the usual mess. Some tasty-looking dishes include the Bacon Cheeseburger Meatloaf with Yuca Fries (pictured), the Jerk Spiced Chicken with Mango Chutney, and the fancy Grilled Salmon with Champagne Sauce.

Diverse dietary needs are covered. The provider has diabetic, vegan, and keto plans, among others. College is diverse, and so are dietary needs. Whether you're managing a health condition or following a specific diet, BistroMD has options to suit you.

The service also offers EATS (Essential and Tasty Snacks) to keep you going between meals. There’s a separate menu section (Snacks) where you can check these. Some offerings I keep finding there are Parmesan Italiano Chips, Vanilla Bean Cheesecake, and Salted Caramel Pecan.

What Makes It Special?

There's flexibility with the 5- or 7-day meal plans. Depending on your weekly schedule, you can opt for meals that leave the weekends free or choose a single free night with the 7-day option. This provides a perfect balance between structured eating and culinary adventures.

Dietitians curate the meals, ensuring your college weight-loss objectives aren’t sidelined. You won’t be left guessing if a meal aligns with your health goals. Knowing that professionals design each dish gives you peace of mind as you navigate academic challenges.

You'll find ample support to remain committed to your weight loss journey. It's not just about the meals. If you need advice or motivation, BistroMD's support system is there to assist, ensuring you remain on the path to a healthier you.

Is It Good Value?

This great meal delivery service for students offers a worthy investment against weight-gain worries. College cafeterias and instant noodles might be tempting, but they often lead to unwanted weight gain. With BistroMD, you receive nutrient-packed meals that support a fit lifestyle. We tested BistroMD and were amazed how filling the meals were.

Prices begin at $6.59 per serving. For those watching their pennies, consider Factor for more affordable options. If you choose to order from BistroMD, you can order a minimum of 10 meals (2 meals a day for 5 days) and a maximum of 21 meals (3 meals a day for 7 days).

Quick Comparison Table

Top Plans
Top Plans	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu	See Menu
Our Rating
Our Rating	9.8 Read Full Review	9.6 Read Full Review	9.6 Read Full Review	9.7 Read Full Review	9.5 Read Full Review	9.4 Read Full Review	9.2 Read Full Review	9.0 Read Full Review	9.5 Read Full Review
Best Offer
Best Offer	$103.41	$107.75	$4.00 Per Serving	$9.99 Per Serving	$9.99 Per Serving	$11.00 Per Serving	$2.12 Per Serving	$2.49 Per Serving	$6.59 Per Serving
Minimum Order
Minimum Order	6 prepared meals	2 meals for 2 people	2 meals for 2 people	3 meals for 2 people	2 meals for 2 people	3 meal kits for 2 people/6 prepared meals	3 meals for 2 people	3 meals for 2 people	10 prepared meals
Meal Types
Meal Types	Prepared meals	Meal kits, speedy kits, prepared meals	5 - 60 min meal kits and prepared meals	10-45 minute meal kits	Kits, speedy kits, oven-ready	Meal kits, prepared meals	30-minute meal kits	30-minute meal kits	Prepared meals
Prep Time
Prep Time	2-3 min	5-50 min	5-45 min	25-40 min	5-50 min	3-40 min	20-45 min	20-45 min	2-3 min
Active Deals
Active Deals	Enjoy a total of $130 off throughout your first 6 boxes + first box ships free!	10 Free Meals + Free Breakfast for Life	Enjoy meals starting as low as $4.00 + get your first week shipped for free!	Enjoy 50% Off + Free Shipping + 20% Off For 2 Months!	18 Free Meals + Free Shipping on your 1st box + Free Dessert for Life!	Get $100 Off!	Get up to 41% off on the first box + free shipping	Get 50% off your first box	Get 50% Off + Free Shipping

Tips for Choosing the Best Meal Delivery Services for Students

When evaluating the options, I used the following essential tips to pinpoint the best meal delivery services tailored for students.

• Consider your budget: As a student, finances often run tight. Allocating funds wisely for meals without compromising quality is crucial. In my research, I found Dinnerly offers a good balance between cost-effectiveness and quality meals.

• Dietary preferences and restrictions: Meeting dietary needs is paramount, especially when maintaining health during busy semesters. During testing, Green Chef stood out with its diverse, eco-conscious meal plans catering to various dietary needs.

• Cooking skill level: Not every student is a kitchen maestro. Choosing a service that aligns with your culinary proficiency ensures you enjoy the cooking process. Home Chef has beginner-friendly instructions for learning the culinary ropes while Factor provides ready-to-heat meals that don't require any cooking.

• Recipe variety: Repetitive meals can quickly become monotonous. It's vital to have a rotating menu to keep things exciting and nutritious. HelloFresh offers an impressive range of dishes and different cuisines, so you never tire of your mealtime choices.

FAQ

What’s the most affordable meal delivery for students?

Dinnerly offers cost-effective options tailored for students. Recognizing the tight budgets that students often have, this service provides affordable meals without sacrificing quality or taste. Its diverse menu ensures you won't have to break the bank for good food.

What’s the best prepared meal delivery for students?

Factor delivers top-notch prepared meals ideal for busy students. With a focus on nutrition and taste, it ensures students get wholesome meals that require minimal effort – just heat and eat. It's a lifesaver when study sessions run late.

Can you get a meal delivery student discount?

Yes, Home Chef offers student discounts, among other meal delivery services. It's always a good idea to check the websites of meal delivery services or student discount platforms for any ongoing promotions tailored for students. That way, you can get the best value for your money.

Is HelloFresh good for college students?

HelloFresh is indeed popular among college students. Known for its easy-to-follow recipes and quality ingredients, HelloFresh takes the guesswork out of cooking. The diverse menu and flexible plans cater to the varying tastes and schedules of college students.

Best Meal Delivery Services for Students in 2024 — Final Score