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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 
  • 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

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 $194
  • Students starting programs in winter term - cost of the U-Pass is $108

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 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; 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 supporting 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, etc.
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 or you are studying full-time at another campus but completing a work integrated learning or co-op placement in HRM. Completed opt in form; no additional supporting documentation required.
You are moving from part-time to full-time status. Completed opt in form; no additional supporting 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 supporting documentation required.

Please ensure you submit your opt out or opt in by the posted deadline.

Key dates and deadlines

Date Details
August 13, 2025 Fall U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission opens
August 25, 2025 U-Pass stickers available for pick up through your campus Business Office
September 1, 2025 Fall term U-Pass program commences; U-Pass active
September 18, 2025 The Business Office will begin adjusting student accounts to reflect opt out
October 5, 2025 Fall term U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission deadline for those programs beginning in September
ALP Intakes Opt out or opt in applications must be submitted within 30 days of the program start date for other ALP intakes
February 5, 2026 Winter term U-Pass opt out or opt in request submission deadline for those students beginning programs in January
May 31, 2026 U-Pass program concludes; U-Pass inactive

Please note: The opt out/opt in application for all Fall term start students has now closed. 

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.

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