Important Update: 9/15/25

The SEPTA fare increases originally scheduled to begin on September 1 went into effect September 14. 

Additionally, all service cuts will be restored by today (September 15) with new schedules.

SEPTA has confirmed that it will not provide refunds for September passes that were already purchased, stating that the court’s temporary pause on fare increases did not apply to passes that were already purchased, and therefore, no refunds will be issued.

We recognize this outcome is not what many anticipated, especially after weeks of uncertainty. We will continue to monitor SEPTA announcements closely and update this page with the latest information. 

SEPTA Online Resources

SEPTA has published extensive online resources to help the community navigate these changes.

Student Resources

Students have many ways to get to, from, and around Penn, with a variety of transit options you can ride for free. 

 

The University’s safe, efficient transit system is free to ride with your PennCard. 

  • It's built around four weekday bus loops that stop at key campus buildings (one runs during the day, while three operate from 4 PM to midnight).
  • An Evening Safety Shuttle provides ride-share services on weekday nights (7:30 PM-3 AM) and weekends (6 PM-3 AM). This year, based on student feedback, Penn Transit has added five new shuttle stops to help optimize service and reduce wait times. They're located at 3701 Market Street, 3440 Market Street, 34th & Chestnut (NW corner), Stellar-Chance Laboratory (422 Curie Blvd.), and 3600 Civic Center Blvd.
  • And Penn Accessible Transit (PAT) offers free rides to students with mobility needs. To get started, submit an accessibility request with the Office of Disability Services. 

To use Penn Transit to best effect, download the free PennTransit Mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, log in with your PennKey, and tap “Trip Planner” to find your most direct route in real time. You can also use the app to check bus schedules, track vehicles, and request an evening safety shuttle.

Due to limited availability, parking permits are available only to graduate students. Permit applications for the 2025-2026 academic year open August 5 in Campus Express. Click here for information.

Students who will be frequently venturing farther into Philly or the surrounding areas can take advantage of student discounts on passes from SEPTA or NJ Transit. Find details here.

SEPTA is not raising the price on its student pass for the fall semester.

Students who bring their own bikes will find covered and uncovered bike racks across campus. Remember to register your bike for free with the Division of Public Safety. DPS' "Share the Road" campaign and brochure also stresses the importance of bicycle safety and awareness. 

No bike? No problem. Indego, Philly’s bike share program, has 250+ stations citywide—including 6 right here on campus

 

Penn community members have free access with their PennCard to LUCY (Loop Around University City) buses and Drexel University shuttles.

Penn’s Walking Escort Program, operated by the Division of Public Safety, offers 24/7 accompaniment to or from any campus location —including transit stops. 

  • Call 215-898-WALK (9255) or 511 from a campus phone.
  • You can also use one of the many blue-light or building ePhones across campus.