The U-Pass is a mandatory transit pass for all graduate and undergraduate students who are registered full-time at the University of Ottawa, or completing a CO-OP work term.
The U-Pass is a student initiative that has come into effect through successful student referendums and through collaboration with OC Transpo and STO.
Fall 2026 grace period
Eligible U-Pass students will be allowed board OC Transpo or STO by showing their student card to drivers during the dates specified below. This grace period will allow any students experiencing technical issues relating to the operation of their card to board but then have the issue resolved by visiting the uOttawa Card Service. It is important that students report any problems with their student card to the Card Service during this grace period so that it can be resolved.
STO: September 1 to September 20, 2026
OC Transpo: September 1 to 28, 2026
* If boarding at an LRT station, you can use the call feature on the ticket booth.
U-Pass Benefits
The U-Pass offers a discount of approximately 45-55% off a regular monthly adult transit pass. It also benefits the local community, the University, and the environment by:
- Saving you money, especially if you leave the car at home or only partially use your car.
- Providing unlimited access to the entire transit network in the National Capital Region (Ottawa & Gatineau), which in turn allows students to access jobs, social activities, and a wide variety of museums and parks.
- Reducing demand for parking on campus; thus, less resources are spent on constructing parking facilities and more valuable land is available for university development.
- Reducing traffic congestion around the campus and the local community.
- Contributing to fewer emissions and a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Stimulating public transportation ridership, particularly during off-peak, non-commuting hours, thereby filling excess capacity.