Universal Bus Pass (UPASS)

UPass Head

The UPass or Universal Bus Pass is an environmentally friendly, cost saving, and safe service which allows unlimited use of the city bus, any time, any day, anywhere that Thunder Bay Transit provides service.
 

How Much Does It Cost?

The UPass fee is a compulsory ancillary fee that all full-time post-secondary students at the Thunder Bay Campus pay.  Students are assessed this fee at the beginning of their academic term.  Students starting in September are assessed the $268 fee for the full academic year. Students who start in January and May are assessed a fee of $185.  
 
Your Confederation College "Campus Card" student ID card will act as your UPass. Show the Transit Operator the front of your student card and go anywhere Thunder Bay Transit provides service.

*If you lose your student card, you have also lost your uPass. (Students can replace a student card at the Library for a fee.)
 

Can I Opt-out and receive a refund?

The uPass is non-refundable. Students who live outside the Thunder Bay Transit service area can request to opt-out of the uPass with proof of residency and be issued a refund.
You must apply to Opt-Out before September 25th, 2024.
 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO OPT-OUT

 

How do I Opt-in to the uPass?

Students attending college full-time or part-time in one of our non-postsecondary programs may qualify to opt-in to the uPass program by paying a fee at the Thunder Bay Campus only. Upon payment of the uPass Fee, a sticker will be applied to your student card as proof of registration into the uPass program. Regional programs, distance education students and school board programs are not eligible to opt-in to the uPass.  Only those student groups who pay SUCCI fees are eligible to be considered for the uPass.   

If you wish to apply, please complete the form at the link below.  Your application will be reviewed and if you qualify, an email with further information will be sent to you.  Please note we cannot accept cash payments at this time. Payment for the UPass will only be accepted via e-transfer.

 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY TO OPT IN

 

When can I use the uPass?

Students registered in the fall semester can use their uPass from September 1. to August 31, annually. 
 

Use and Abuse of Your uPass

A student who has paid for the uPass will receive a student card which has the uPass sticker on the card.  You may ride the bus by showing your student photo ID card with the uPass on it.   
 
A student must use their bus pass in accordance with the following guidelines:
• Students must present their Confederation College student ID card to the Transit Driver upon each boarding with the valid uPass  logo/sticker.
• A student must not make fraudulent use of a uPass which includes, but is not limited to:
• Allowing either directly or indirectly, another individual to use his or her student card/uPass regardless of whether or not the individual is a student and entitled to a uPass
• Altering the student card or uPass for the purpose of fraudulent access to the transit services
• Possession or using an unauthorized Confederation College Student Card/uPass
• Failing to present his/her Confederation College student ID card with uPass to the Transit Driver
 
Students who fraudulently use their uPass will have the privilege revoked with no refund issued.

Students with Disabilities

Students who are registered with Lift+ Specialized Transit are able to utilize their uPass on Lift+ Transit.
 

Where can I find bus information?

Bus schedules and route maps are located at the front desk of the SUCCI Office, at the Information Hub, or on information posts at campus bus stops. For further transit schedule and route information, please call the Transit Helpline at 
684-3744 or visit thunderbay.ca/transit. Thunder Bay Transit is on Google Maps. Simply enter your origin and destination on Google Maps, click the transit icon, and Google will plan your trip for you. 

For real-time departure information, visit www.nextlift.ca on your computer or mobile device.
 

Can I take my bike on the bus?

Thunder Bay Transit has installed racks on all buses so cyclists can take their bikes with them. Bike racks hold two bikes. The racks are designed for easy loading and unloading and are available on a first come, first serve basis.   Fat Tires and E-Bikes are prohibited.
 

How safe is Transit?

Security cameras have been installed on every bus. The installation of surveillance cameras is intended to improve the protection and safety of employees and the general public, to reduce and deter incidents of vandalism or criminal activity and for the protection of property and assets. Also, Transit offers a Night Stop program. After dark, you can ask your driver to drop you off between bus stops, closer to your destination.  If you feel unsafe, talk to the driver.
 

How can I be a respectful rider?

Public Transit means you are sharing a trip and sharing space with other passengers. Respect those you are riding with and you can expect their respect in return.  Here are some things to remember: 
1. Please keep the aisles clear
2. Try to occupy only one seat with you and your parcels 
3. Leave the Priority Seating area for those who need it 
4. No foul language   
5. Please refrain from loud conversation, music or cell phone calls.  Headphones must be worn.
6. If you have a beverage, please cover it to avoid spilling it on others   
7. Take any newspapers or litter with you when you depart   
8. If you are able, please exit at the rear doors 
9. Refrain from using cologne or perfume.

Common courtesy among passengers can make everyone’s trip more pleasant!