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In partnership with TransLink, the province is investing in the U-Pass BC program.
Photo via buzzer.translink.ca
Students commute for less with U-Pass BC
Published 10:50 PDT, Tue October 7, 2025
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Post-secondary students who use transit in the Metro Vancouver region will continue to have access to discounted transit fares thanks to the province’s ongoing commitment to the U-Pass BC program.
The province, in partnership with TransLink, is investing in the U-Pass BC program to ensure that Metro Vancouver’s transit system remains affordable for public post-secondary students enrolled in the program. During the 2024 fall term, the program supported nearly 140,000 students a month.
“The U-Pass BC program is a key part of our commitment to making life more affordable for students in Metro Vancouver,” said Mike Farnworth, minister of transportation and transit. “We’re proud to support a program that reduces financial pressures and helps students focus on their studies.”
Ten public post-secondary institutions are participating in the U-Pass BC program across Metro Vancouver. The program provides eligible students at these institutions with subsidized monthly transit passes and allows them to use buses, SeaBus and SkyTrain services, as well as discounts on the West Coast Express.
“The U-Pass BC program is one of the most effective ways we support young people across Metro Vancouver. It helps students stay connected to their schools, jobs, and communities, and builds a habit of choosing sustainable travel that lasts well beyond graduation,” said Kevin Quinn, chief executive officer, TransLink. “We’re proud to partner with the province to ensure this program continues to benefit students, while reducing congestion and lowering emissions across the region.”
Since 2011, the province has invested more than $250 million toward the U-Pass BC program, including a $75 million commitment made in May 2025 to extend the program until 2030.
“When you're juggling classes, part-time work, and family commitments, every bit of certainty helps,” said Solomon Yi-Kieran, vice-president, external affairs, AMS Student Society of UBC Vancouver. “The extension of the U-Pass BC program until 2030 is a huge relief. Knowing I can count on this reduced-cost transportation removes a major financial barrier and gives me peace of mind.”
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