What term is used to describe the cost of a student's living accommodations and meal plan?

The term that describes the cost of a student's living accommodations and meal plan is "Room and Board." This term specifically refers to the expenses associated with both housing (room) and meals (board) that a student incurs while attending school.

Understanding "Room and Board" is important because it reflects a significant part of a student's overall expenses when budgeting for college. While tuition refers strictly to the cost of classes, and student fees may cover various administrative costs, "Room and Board" encapsulates the necessary living expenses that support a student's daily life on campus or in nearby housing. Housing costs could be considered a broader category that might not include meals, making "Room and Board" the most accurate and comprehensive term in this context.