Colleges with Chick-fil-A on Campus: Current Locations and Dining Partnerships
Chick-fil-A operates on numerous U.S. college campuses through licensed franchise agreements, with locations concentrated in the Southeast and expanding to other regions. As of the newest available public data, the company lists dozens of college campus locations across states such as Georgia, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee. These campus restaurants are typically run by franchisees who meet Chick-fil-A's operator requirements and pay a franchise fee, with the company retaining a percentage of sales. The campus presence is part of Chick-fil-A's broader strategy to build brand loyalty among younger consumers, as outlined in its franchise model overview Forbes.
Campus Chick-fil-A locations often operate under different hours than standard restaurants, aligning with university schedules and avoiding Sunday service, which is consistent with the company's corporate policy. Many locations are situated in student unions, dining halls, or food courts, and they typically offer a limited menu tailored to campus traffic patterns. The restaurants accept campus meal plans and flex dollars, integrating with university dining systems. This partnership model provides colleges with an additional dining option while giving Chick-fil-A access to a high-traffic customer base near dormitories and academic buildings.
Franchise Requirements, Costs, and Operator Selection for Campus Locations
Chick-fil-A's franchise process is highly selective, with the company reporting an acceptance rate of less than 1% of applicants, according to its public franchise information. Operators pay an initial franchise fee of $10,000, which is notably lower than many fast-food brands, but they must meet strict operational and financial criteria. For campus locations, operators must comply with university agreements, local health regulations, and Chick-fil-A's service standards, including the company's policy of closing on Sundays Forbes.
The company provides extensive support to franchisees, including training, supply chain access, and marketing resources, while retaining a percentage of gross sales. Campus franchisees often manage the restaurant alongside other business responsibilities, and the model is designed for operator involvement rather than passive ownership. Chick-fil-A's franchise disclosure document outlines these terms in detail, and prospective operators can review the company's requirements through its official franchise site Chick-fil-A Franchise. The selection process includes interviews, background checks, and evaluations of business and leadership skills.
Campus Dining Impact and Student Demand for Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A's campus presence influences student dining choices, with the brand consistently ranking among the most requested fast-food options on college campuses. The company's chicken sandwich, launched in 1964, remains a top seller and a key driver of traffic at campus locations. Student demand is supported by mobile ordering, drive-through service, and limited-time menu items that align with broader fast-food trends Business Insider.
Universities benefit from Chick-fil-A partnerships through increased dining options and potential revenue sharing, though specific financial terms vary by location and franchise agreement. The campus model also provides students with familiar food options and flexible dining hours that accommodate class schedules. As fast-casual dining competes for student spending, Chick-fil-A's campus locations continue to expand, with new openings announced