Yes, there are several transportation benefits available for university students in Toronto, particularly concerning bus travel. Here's a detailed overview of the options:
🚌 TTC Bus Fares and Discounts for Students
1. Youth Fare (Ages 13–19)
- Eligibility: Students aged 13 to 19 are eligible for the youth fare.
- Fare:
- PRESTO: $2.35 per ride
- Exact Cash: $2.40 per ride
- Debit/Credit Card: $3.30 per ride
- Monthly Pass:
- Youth Monthly Pass: $128.15
- Youth 12-Month Pass: $117.45
- Requirements: Students aged 16 to 19 must carry a valid photo ID, such as a high school ID, driver's license, or Ontario Photo Card, when using the youth fare. [ttc.ca], [en.wikipedia.org]
2. Post-Secondary Student Discount
- Eligibility: Full-time post-secondary students aged 20 and older enrolled in a recognized institution within Toronto.
- Monthly Pass:
- Post-Secondary Monthly Pass: $128.15
- Requirements: Students must obtain a TTC Post-Secondary Photo ID from Bathurst Subway Station and set up their PRESTO card at a participating Shoppers Drug Mart. [ttc.ca], [humber.ca], [prestocard.ca]
🔄 Transfer Benefits and Regional Travel
1. Two-Hour Transfer
Benefit: When paying with a PRESTO card, debit, or credit card, you receive a two-hour transfer, allowing unlimited travel within the TTC network during that period. [ttc.ca]
2. One Fare Program
Benefit: Your TTC fare includes a free two-hour transfer to Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay, and York Region Transit when using a PRESTO card. [ttc.ca]
💳 Payment Methods
- PRESTO Card: A reloadable smart card used for fare payment across various transit systems in the Greater Toronto Area.
- Debit/Credit Card: Accepted for fare payment on the TTC, with the same fare as the adult PRESTO fare.
- Exact Cash: Accepted for fare payment, though using a PRESTO card or contactless payment methods is more convenient. [en.wikipedia.org]
✅ Summary
Toronto offers a range of transportation benefits for university students, especially concerning bus travel. Utilizing the youth or post-secondary student fares, along with the two-hour transfer and One Fare Program, can lead to significant savings. For students commuting frequently, the monthly passes provide unlimited travel within the TTC network, offering both convenience and cost-effectiveness. [gotransit.com]
If you need assistance with setting up your PRESTO card or have further questions about transportation options, feel free to ask!