If your event requires catering outside of American University’s approved dining program, please submit an Approved Catering Exception Application for review.

Exceptions to the requirement to use an Approved Caterer may be considered when an event has specific food service needs related to its unique nature, purpose, religious or cultural significance, or other circumstances that cannot be accommodated through an approved caterer.

Submit Your Request

Before you submit, please include complete and accurate information:

• Event name.
• Event date and time.
• Event location.
• Estimated number of attendees.
• Name of the caterer requested.
• Reason for the catering exception.
• Any supporting details that may help with review.

Review process

Submitted requests are reviewed by Auxiliary Services and a cross-campus working group. If additional information is needed, you will be contacted before a decision is made.

Please allow at least three (3) weeks for review. Early submission is strongly encouraged.

Important reminder

Submission of this form does not guarantee approval. Catering exceptions are granted based on policy requirements, event needs, and operational considerations.