The WMATA Board of Directors has approved a major expansion of Metro’s University Pass (U-Pass) program, a move aimed at giving more college students across the region affordable, unlimited access to public transit.
Approved as part of Metro’s Strategic Transformation Plan, the updated program introduces new pricing and participation options designed to make it easier for colleges and universities to join while expanding eligibility to more students, including part-time, community college, undergraduate, and graduate students.
Since launching as a pilot in 2016, the U-Pass program has grown to serve more than 35,000 students and generated approximately 4.6 million trips during fiscal year 2025. Regionwide, 43 colleges and universities are eligible to participate, representing a potential reach of roughly 360,000 students across the National Capital region.
Under the expanded program, participating institutions will be able to choose from multiple models. The universal model keeps the current base rate of about $1 per day for unlimited rides when all eligible students participate. A new opt-in model allows schools to participate with a minimum of 33% student enrollment at a rate of about $1.75 per day. Institutions will also have the ability to customize which student groups are eligible and adjust participation annually to better fit campus needs.
Metro officials say the expansion supports both affordability for students and long-term ridership growth. Currently, students using U-Pass pay about $1 per day for transit, compared with roughly $7.20 in standard daily fares.
The changes are scheduled to take effect during the 2026–2027 academic year. Metro has indicated it will continue exploring future options, including potential expansion to faculty and staff and additional flexible pricing models.
By encouraging transit use among students, the program aims to reduce transportation costs, ease parking demand on campuses, improve access to jobs and internships, and support local businesses throughout the region.
