UMass Boston

UMass Boston offers eligible students access to discounted MBTA semester passes during designated fall and spring enrollment periods. Semester passes provide reduced student pricing for regular riders and are valid only during the assigned semester coverage period.

Current Program Status

• Summer semester passes are not available through the UMass Boston Semester Pass Program.
• Fall 2026 semester pass enrollment opens July 1, 2026 and closes August 9, 2026. Passes are valid September 1 through December 31, 2026.
• The Fall 2026 signup link will be posted here once enrollment opens.
• Students needing MBTA service before September 1 may purchase monthly MBTA passes directly through the MBTA at standard retail pricing.

Semester Dates

Students may enroll only during designated semester pass enrollment periods.

*Spring passes activate on February 1. Students are responsible for transportation costs before the pass activation date.

Program Rules

• Students may enroll only during designated enrollment periods.
• The semester pass program is not available during winter or summer terms.
• Outside enrollment periods, students must purchase monthly MBTA passes directly through the MBTA.
• Passes are valid only during the designated semester coverage period.
• Passes are non-transferable, non-refundable, and non-exchangeable.

Semester pricing reflects discounted MBTA student rates. Eligible undergraduate students may qualify for additional subsidy support based on available funding.

Payment Information

The semester pass cost is added automatically to the current term bill. Cash, personal checks, and debit or credit card payments are not accepted for semester pass purchases.

Undergraduate Subsidy

Eligible undergraduate students may receive subsidized pricing toward semester passes. A $20 nonrefundable transportation fee supports this program.

• A 50% discount is available on a first-come, first-served basis until subsidy funding is fully allocated.
• An 11% discount is available to undergraduate students after subsidy funding is fully allocated during the open enrollment period.
• Subsidy availability is limited and not guaranteed.
• Questions about subsidy funding may be directed to Undergraduate Student Government.

Not sure which pass you need? Choose the option that matches your typical travel pattern.

• Bus Pass: Local bus service only.
• LinkPass: Subway and local bus service.
• Commuter Rail Pass: Travel outside the subway system.
• Express Bus or Ferry Pass: Use if these services are part of your regular commute.

Explore MBTA Options

• If you missed the enrollment deadline or need transportation outside the semester coverage period, you may purchase MBTA monthly passes directly through the MBTA Auto Pay Program.
• Monthly passes are not part of the UMass Boston Semester Pass Program and are not eligible for student subsidy.
• MBTA fare options include Bus, Subway, Commuter Rail, Ferry, and other payment options available through the MBTA.