Halifax Transit U-Pass
All full-time students at one of our three metro campuses (Akerley, IT, and Ivany) are automatically supplied a U-Pass which provides full, unlimited access to Halifax Transit services. This transit program helps you get around without having to search for parking, maintain a car, and pay for gas. It's also a great way to assist NSCC in our sustainability goals. NSCC's U-Pass program runs between September 1 and May 31 (additional fares apply when travelling on MetroLink and MetroX). Please note: we do not offer a summer transit pass program.
Who gets a U-Pass
Students who are:
- Full-time (in programs 20 weeks longer in duration) and registered at one of our metro campuses
- If you’re a full-time student registered in an eCampus program, or enrolled in a full time off-cycle program, you can get a U-Pass by completing an NSCC U-Pass Opt out/Opt in Request (PDF 1MB)
- Registered in three or more units of course work through the Adult Learning Program
- Taking programs that are delivered off-site but located in Halifax/Dartmouth
- Method of delivery of program does not impact eligibility for U-Pass
Cost
The mandatory U-Pass represents a significant cost savings over monthly transit passes.
- Students starting programs in fall term - cost of the U-Pass is $191
- Students starting programs in winter term - cost of the U-Pass is $107
The cost is included in your student fees.
Opting out/Opting in to the U-Pass
You may be eligible to submit an NSCC U-Pass Opt out/Opt in Request (PDF 1MB) in the following circumstances:
Opt out circumstances
| Opt out circumstance | Documentation required |
|---|---|
| You are officially withdrawing from NSCC prior to the advertised deadline for your program. | No additional documentation required however U-Pass must be surrendered in order to receive a refund. |
| You change from full-time to part-time status before the official add/drop date for the term. | Completed opt out form; no additional documentation required however U-Pass must be surrendered in order to receive a refund. |
| You are enrolled at a metro campus but studying fully online. | Completed opt out form; no additional documentation required. |
| You currently hold a valid Access-a-Bus, CNIB, WIH or X-Pass transit pass. | Completed opt out form must be submitted along with a copy of your current pass (front and back). |
| You currently reside outside of the Halifax Transit service area. | Completed opt out form along with current proof of residence such as a utility or other bill, lease or mortgage, home or tenants' insurance for your residence in your name. |
| You have a medical concern that prevents you from taking transit. | Completed opt out form along with a letter from your physician/medical practitioner stating that due to your concern, you are not able to safely take transit. |
You cannot opt out of the U-Pass if:
- you choose to drive, bike, or walk to campus
- you live near campus
- your schedule doesn't allow you to take the bus
Opt in circumstances
| Opt in circumstance | Documentation required |
|---|---|
| You are studying full-time online through eCampus. | Completed opt in form; no additional documentation required. |
| You are moving from part-time to full-time status. | Completed opt in form; no additional documentation required. |
| You are studying full time in an off-cycle program at one of our metro campuses and were not previously assessed a U-Pass fee. | Completed opt in form; no additional documentation required. |
Please ensure you submit your opt out or opt in by the posted deadline.
Key dates and deadlines
| Date | Details |
|---|---|
| June 3, 2024 | Fall U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission opens |
| August 21, 2024 | U-Pass stickers available for pick up through your campus Business Office |
| September 1, 2024 | Fall term U-Pass program commences; U-Pass active |
| September 17, 2024 | Fall term U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission deadline |
| January 20, 2025 | Winter term U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission deadline |
| May 31, 2025 | U-Pass program concludes; U-Pass inactive |
Please note: Students in our Adult Learning Program and those students enrolled in other off-cycle programs which begin at other times of the year may still submit an opt out/opt in request form. You are asked to do so within 2 weeks of your program start date.
Picking up your U-Pass
Please drop by your campus Business Office with your Student ID card to have your U-Pass sticker applied. Should you lose your student ID / U-Pass, you can have a replacement issued. We only support one (1) free re-issue. The Business Office will assess a replacement fee of $25 + $5 cost of the student ID card for any additional re-issues.
Park and ride
If you have a vehicle, as a U-Pass holder, you have access to some Halifax Transit park and ride lots.
Questions?
If you have questions about the U-Pass program, contact your campus Business Office or email
For bus and ferry schedules, visit Halifax Transit or call 311.