UBC ams
U-Pass BC

U-Pass BC

U-Pass BC

The U-Pass BC program is a subsidized transit pass program that provides post-secondary students with universal, accessible and affordable access to public transit across Metro Vancouver. The U-Pass BC program costs $184.00 per academic term or $46.00 per month, providing students with a full 3-Zone Pass per month.

To request your U-Pass BC for the month, visit the U-Pass BC website, select “University of British Columbia” as the school and log in with your CWL.

Learn More:

U-Pass BC Exemptions & Subsidies

Only students residing outside of Metro Vancouver AND all your courses are online or you currently enrolled in a co-op or practicum placement are eligible for an AMS U-Pass BC Exemption.

Driving a car and/or not using public transit does not qualify you for an AMS exemption. See FAQ below for more details.

Deadline to apply for the U-Pass BC Exemptions:

AMS U-Pass Exemption for Summer 2024

  • You live outside of Metro Vancouver, AND all the classes you’re taking are online (not in-person) on the Vancouver campus for 2024 Summer Session (May to Aug 2024).
  • You are a co-op or practicum student living outside of Metro-Vancouver while on placement.

The application period open and close dates for Summer 2023/2024 :

  • May 2nd 2024 to May 31st 2024 for Summer Term 1 (May to June) 
  • July 2nd 2024 to July 15th 2024 for Summer Term 2 (July to August)

UBC’s Regular U-Pass BC Exemption

  • If you meet UBC’s regular U-Pass exemption criteria, such as not being able to use the U-Pass due to a disability, you can apply for an exemption through your Student Service Centre (SSC). The deadline to apply for an exemption is Fri, May 24, 2024

AMS U-Pass Subsidy

If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may be eligible to have the cost of your U-Pass partially or fully subsidized.

The application period open and close dates for Summer 2023/2024:

  • Jun 3 to Jun 14, 2024 for Summer Term 1 (May to June) 
  • July 16, 2024, to July 30, 2024 for Summer Term 2 (July to August)

AMS Summer Temporary Transit Subsidy

If you’re not eligible for a U-Pass during Summer 2024, you might qualify for a transit subsidy. Under this program, the AMS will cover nearly 30% of your transit pass cost, with specific amounts allocated based on the transit zones:

  • Zone 1: $30.50
  • Zone 2: $40.50
  • Zone 3: $55

This initiative aims to ease financial strain and ensure students have access to vital transportation services throughout the summer months. You must apply on a monthly basis ahead of every month you are eligible for the subsidy.

The application period open and close dates for AMS Summer Temporary Transit Subsidy 2024/2025:

  • May 3rd to May 14th, 2024
  • June 3rd to June 14th, 2024
  • July 3rd to July 14th, 2024
  • August 3rd to August 14th, 2024

Exemption FAQ

Do I qualify for an AMS U-Pass BC Exemption?

  • To qualify, you must meet BOTH these criteria:
    • You live outside of Metro Vancouver AND all your courses are delivered online or you are currently enrolled in a co-op or practicum placement.
  • If you meet both these criteria you can apply for a AMS U-Pass BC Exemption.
  • When applying for this exemption, please make sure to provide the address that you are living at during the period in which you are requesting the exemption
  • If you don’t qualify for an AMS U-Pass Exemption you may still be eligible for UBC’s Regular U-Pass BC exemption.

NOTE: All AMS U-Pass exemption application decisions are final and there is no possibility for appeals.

What regions are part of Metro Vancouver?

  • As negotiated with Translink, the following regions fall under Metro Vancouver: Anmore, Belcarra, Bowen Island, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Delta, Langley (City and Township, Lions Bay, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, North Vancouver (City and District), Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Richmond, Surrey (incl. Barnston Island), Tsawwassen First Nation, UBC, University Endowment Lands, Vancouver, West Vancouver, and White Rock.

I’m on a Co-Op. Do I still need to pay for a U-Pass BC??

  • You can apply for an exemption ONLY if you are residing outside of Metro Vancouver during your co-op term.
  • Co-op students are considered to be full-time students. As a result, if you are residing in Metro Vancouver during your co-op term, you will be assessed and expected to pay the fee.

I don’t need the U-Pass BC/I have a car. Why do I still need to pay for a U-Pass BC?

  • All post-secondary students from participating academic institutions in Metro Vancouver are required to pay the U-Pass BC fee. This pooled financial effort is the reason Translink is able to provide a cost-reduced, subsidized transit pass specifically for post-secondary students. By having everyone contribute together towards the U-Pass, students can enjoy highly subsidized and accessible public transportation.
  • Even if you don’t use your pass to commute you still benefit. U-Pass BC contributes to a better driving experience by reducing the number of vehicles on the road and parked at UBC.

What if I can’t afford the U-Pass BC?

  • We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed financial burdens on students, whether those are long-term or short-term burdens. Supporting our members has always been and will continue to be a priority for the AMS. You can apply for the AMS U-Pass BC Subsidy.

I’m immunocompromised and will not be using public transit this fall. How can I get exempted from U-Pass BC?

  • In coordination with UBC, we’ve worked to ensure that immunocompromised students are eligible for exemptions from the U-Pass BC fee.
  • If you are not registered with the Centre for Accessibility, you can apply through your Student Service Centre (SSC) by selecting “U-Pass BC Exemption” under Finances.

I’ve applied for the exemption, when can I expect it to update on my SSC?

  • As we are experiencing a high volume of exemption and subsidy applications, we are processing the applications on a rolling basis. You can still pay your tuition, and if/when your subsidy or exemption is approved, your SSC will be credited. The AMS will not be responsible for any late fees or financial holds as a result of the student not paying the tuition fees (U-Pass included) before the tuition deadline. We do not send out emails to applicants who have been approved. You will only receive an email if your application has been denied.

Who can you contact?