The Princeton University financial aid budget for all juniors and seniors includes an increased board allowance. If you join an eating club, this higher board allowance should make it easier to afford a club meal plan.
If you receive financial aid, your grant aid will be credited to your Princeton bill, reducing the amount you owe the University for tuition, room, and other fees. If you join a club, you will likely see no board charge from Princeton on your student bill. Because your University bill is likely to be lower that it was for the sophomore year, it should be easier for you or your family to afford an eating club.
Princeton Eating Clubs also have their own financial aid policies. Learn more here about club fees and financial aid provided by the clubs.