Student Summer Pass Program
Attend events, get to work, stay connected and save
This summer, COTA is helping students connect to libraries, summer camps, sporting events, summer jobs, internships and each other.
What’s Included
COTA’s easy, safe and affordable Student Summer Pass gives eligible riders unlimited access to COTA’s full network all summer long.
Cost: $62 — a savings of more than $150
Valid: May 15–Sept. 15
Who Qualifies:
- Central Ohio students in grades K-12
- Students attending a local college, university or trade school
- Recent graduates of a local high school, college, university or trade school
How To Get Your Pass
Enrollment is quick and done in person at COTA’s Customer Experience Center (CEC).
Step 1 — Bring These With You
- A valid student ID or other proof of enrollment
- Your own email address
- $62 for the pass fee (cash or credit)
Step 2 — Choose How You Ride
There are two ways to use your Student Summer Pass: Mobile apps or a COTA Smartcard.
Mobile app: Download the app(s) that apply to you and register for an account:
- Transit app for fixed-route rides
- COTA//Plus app for on-demand transportation
- COTA Mainstream app for eligible paratransit riders
COTA Smartcard
Use your current Smartcard or request a Smartcard when you go to the CEC to register for your Student Summer Pass.
Note: There is an application process and requirements to register for COTA Mainstream. Visit COTA.com/mainstream to learn more.
Step 3 — Visit the CEC
Come to the Customer Experience Center at 33 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 — don’t forget your proof of enrollment and $62.
Step 4 — Register and Pay
Register for a Student Summer Pass with a member of Team COTA, and pay the $62 pass fee in full at the time of purchase (cash or credit accepted).
Step 5 — Ready to Ride
- Once you are registered, your Student Summer Pass will be added to your app-based accounts or COTA Smartcard account.
- When you board a fixed-route bus, either scan your Transit app barcode or tap your Smartcard on the validator to your right.
- For COTA//Plus or COTA Mainstream rides, book them like you normally would, your discount is already applied to your account.
Requirements at a Glance
- Have an email address (each rider must have their own)
- Create an account on the Transit app and/or COTA//Plus
- Enroll in person at 33 N. High St.
- Show a valid student ID or proof of enrollment
- Pay the $62 in full when purchasing pass (cash or credit)
Questions? Contact COTA Customer Care at 614-228-1776 or at COTA.com/contact.
Ride COTA to these fun summer Destinations
AND MORE!