Integrated student and U-PASS card
- One card, multiple functionalities: The uOttawa student card combines your student ID with the U-Pass, eliminating the need to carry and manage two separate cards.
- Simplified access: With this integration, the card simplifies access to transit services and campus facilities, streamlining daily activities for all cardholders.
Card replacement and transition
- Immediate replacement for specific cards:
- Students who received their cards after May 1, 2024: Will already have the U-Pass application preloaded and will not require any modifications to their student cards.
- Students who received their student card before May 1, 2024: Will receive communications on whether they will need to replace or bring their current cards to the Card Services Office to have the U-Pass application added, enabling the new functionalities.
- Smooth transition: We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all students affected by these changes. Detailed instructions on how to replace or update your card will be provided, and our staff at the Card Services Office are ready to assist you in making this transition as seamless as possible.
- Immediate replacement for specific cards:
Term-based activation
- Flexible and term-specific: U-Pass will now activate according to the academic term of registration—fall or winter. This change aligns U-Pass validity more closely with your current academic status.
- Eligibility adjustments: Changes in your registration status (from full-time to part-time, etc.) will now be reflected in the U-Pass activation, ensuring that only eligible students have active access during any given term.
Enhanced U-PASS management portal
- New user interface: A revamped U-Pass management portal will make managing your U-Pass simpler. Whether you're checking your U-Pass status or submitting an exemption, the new portal is designed to be user-friendly and responsive to your academic registration.
Refund and exemption policy updates
- Clear deadlines: Be aware of the specific deadlines for U-Pass exemptions, which align with the last date of withdrawal each term. This year, the deadline is September 27th. Ensure your requests are submitted by this date to avoid any inconveniences.
U-Pass program updates
Streamlining the U-Pass Experience
We are pleased to announce significant updates to the University of Ottawa's U-Pass program, designed to enhance convenience and align with our ongoing commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Starting this fall, the U-Pass will be integrated directly onto your student card. Your student card will serve both as your official student identification and your transit access, reducing the need for multiple cards and simplifying your campus experience.
We are pleased to announce significant updates to the University of Ottawa's U-Pass program, designed to enhance convenience and align with our ongoing commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Starting this fall, the U-Pass will be integrated directly onto your student card. Your student card will serve both as your official student identification and your transit access, reducing the need for multiple cards and simplifying your campus experience.
Notice
Please hold onto any receipts from fares paid due to U-Pass issues. If you have been charged for the U-Pass, and were required to pay a fare on OC Transpo on or after September 1, 2024, you can request a refund by following the link below. You can verify if you've been charged through the U-Pass Portal. If you haven’t been charged yet, you can still opt in to the U-Pass program.
The deadline for students to submit refund requests to OC Transpo for charges incurred during the fall will be December 31, 2024.
U-Pass fare refund request
The deadline for students to submit refund requests to OC Transpo for charges incurred during the fall will be December 31, 2024.
Key changes coming this fall
Preparing for the change
To prepare for these updates, please check the U-Pass management portal for the latest information and detailed guides on how to use the new system once it is available in August. We understand that changes can be confusing, and we are here to help. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible for every member of the uOttawa community.
U-Pass Management Portal
Para Transpo
U-Pass holders who are eligible for Para Transpo service will need to:
- Email the uOttawa Card Service to obtain their U-Pass number
- Call OC Transpo Customer Service at 613-560-5000 to get their U-Pass set up with their Para Transpo account.
Stay informed
As we approach the launch of these updates, we will continue to provide clear, timely information through campus announcements, emails, and updates on this page. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
We are excited about these changes and believe they will greatly improve your experience with the U-Pass program. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we continue to enhance student services at the University of Ottawa.