The U-Pass
The Universal Transit Pass, more commonly known as the U-Pass, is a bus pass offered through Carleton University at a discounted rate. The U-Pass has come into effect through CUSA and GSA referendums and through collaboration with OC Transpo and STO. During the Winter term of 2016, both undergraduate and graduate students voted in favour of a Summer U-Pass.
The U-Pass is a compulsory fee for all students who are enrolled in full-time classes. In the summer term, full-time classes is defined as being registered in at least 1.0 credit. In the fall or winter term, full-time classes is defined as at least 1.5 credits in either term. Graduate students who are designated as “full-time” are also eligible for the U-Pass. The U-Pass for the upcoming academic year will be available to be picked up from the Campus Card Office (407 University Centre) starting July 18th, 2016.
Students can also apply to opt-out of the U-Pass. Find out if you are eligible to opt-out of the U-Pass.
New U-Pass smartcard
Starting this summer, a blue U-Pass smartcard will be distributed to all full-time students. Please tap your U-Pass on the card reader when you board the bus and at O-Train Trillium Line stations. On STO buses, please board at the front door and “tap on”.
Remember: your U-Pass is not transferable and cannot be shared.
Reuse your U-Pass smartcard each semester
U-Pass smartcards will be programmed each semester with expiry dates so that the same cards can be reused. Before each semester, students will be instructed when and where to tap their cards to activate them.
Keep your U-Pass smartcard for fall 2017
Students that receive a Summer U-Pass should hold onto their card until they graduate
New fare gates on the O-Train Trillium Line
- Fare gates are being installed this summer at Greenboro, Confederation, Carleton, and Carling O-Train Stations.
- Fare gates are easy to use and fully accessible
- Tap your U-Pass then walk through the fare gate to enter
- When exiting, just walk through the gate and the barrier will open automatically—no tap required
Benefits of the U-Pass
- Significant savings compared to a regular monthly pass
- Unlimited travel
- Helps support a sustainable community
Lost your U-Pass?
If you lose your U-Pass, call OC Transpo’s Lost & Found at 613-563-4011 or visit heartwoodhouse.ca. If your pass is not found, a replacement is available for a fee at your institution
Summer U-Pass Information
Eligible full-time students enjoy the convenience and freedom of the U-Pass during the summer. Your U-Pass will be available on campus starting April 17, 2017, at the Campus Card Office.
Campus Card Office hours of operation:
- April 17- 21, 2017, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Extended hours: April 24, 2017 – May 5, 2017
- Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The 2017 Summer U-Pass fee is $197.52 for the semester — unchanged from the 2016-17 Fall/Winter U-Pass price. The Summer U-Pass is valid May 1, 2017, to August 31, 2017.
For students who are not full-time during the summer, switch to Presto for your summer transit. The new EquiPass may be an option for you. Check octranspo.com for details on eligibility and how to apply.
