Ready to explore DC without watching your bank account drain at the turnstile?

Enter U-Pass: one of American University’s ultimate student perks. For a $136 semester fee—roughly a dollar a day—full-time Eagles unlock unlimited rides across all Metrorail and Metrobus lines across the region.

Last year alone, nearly 9,000 students logged more than 1.2 million rides on the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) system, heading to Capitol Hill internships, late-night slices in Adams Morgan, and world-class museums along the National Mall.

“Having freedom of movement for a flat fee is a really big deal,” said Lucas Franco, SIS/BA ’19, CAS/MA ’23, transportation demand management coordinator. “It’s not only about convenience but equity for commuters” and Eagles living off campus. 

What You Need to Know About U-Pass:

• Grab your new card: Every full-time student needs a fresh pass each academic year. Bring your OneCard to the Mary Graydon Student Center through August 30 to pick up a new U-Pass and recycle your old one.
• Go digital: Add your U-Pass directly to your Apple Wallet in seconds. (Note: Once you transfer it to your phone, your plastic card is permanently deactivated.)
• Stack the savings: Regular commuters save an estimated $1,000 compared to standard Metro fares—and there’s zero cap on how much you can ride. 
• Keep your perks: Maintain full-time enrollment to keep your pass active. Fees can be covered with financial aid; students with Metro Access receive an exemption. 
• Hit a snag? Always tap to enter and exit rail stations. If your card stops scanning, show it to a WMATA station manager first—it usually just needs a quick reset. If lost or stolen, $20 replacement passes are available via Parking and Commuter Services.

Questions? Head to the U-Pass website or drop a line to [email protected].