College & University Student Riders
Bigfoots and Bulldogs and Cougars and Eagles and Pirates, Oh My!
College students in Spokane enjoy convenient access to STA at no cost or at a reduced cost through an STA Connect card.
For the most up-to-date information about your college or university’s fare policy, contact your educational institution.
Student ID (UTAP) to Connect Card Transition
The Universal Transit Access Pass (UTAP) is a program that provides students enrolled in degree programs at participating institutions throughout the region with prepaid, unlimited access to STA rides. Many students use their institution’s UTAP by presenting a valid school-issued photo ID as proof of fare.
The transition from UTAP to the STA Connect app is nearly complete, making it easier for students to access their pass digitally and ride with added convenience.
Transition Timeline by Institution
The UTAP transition to STA Connect cards is now complete for the following institutions: Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, Washington State University, Whitworth University, and the University of Washington School of Medicine’s WWAMI Regional Medical Education Program.
Upcoming UTAP-to-Connect Transitions
Spokane Community College: BEGINNING APRIL 1, 2026, SCC students must use the STA Connect App or a physical Connect card to validate fare. The UTAP/Student ID will expire on March 31, 2026. SCC students can learn about how to transition bus passes to the STA Connect App here: scc.spokane.edu/For-Our-Students/Student-Resources/How-to-Ride-the-Bus
Spokane Falls Community College: BEGINNING APRIL 1, 2026, SFCC students must use the STA Connect App or a physical Connect card to validate fare. The UTAP/Student ID will expire on March 31, 2026. SFCC students can learn about how to transition bus passes to the STA Connect App here: sfcc.spokane.edu/For-Our-Students/Student-Resources/How-to-Ride-the-Bus
Institutions with Free Fares
Eastern Washington University (EWU): Faculty, staff, and students can use the STA Connect App to access an EWU bus pass, valid on all STA routes! Visit the EWU Student Life page for details.
Gonzaga University: Gonzaga and students from the University of Washington School of Medicine’s WWAMI Regional Medical Education Program, faculty and staff can use the STA Connect App to access an GU bus pass as valid fare on all STA bus routes.
Whitworth University: Students can use the STA Connect App to access a bus pass as valid fare on all STA bus routes.
Washington State University (WSU) Spokane: WSU students, faculty, and staff at the WSU Spokane campus can use the STA Connect App to access a WSU Spokane bus pass as valid fare on all STA bus routes.
Institutions with Discounted Fares
Spokane Colleges: Some SCC and SFCC students ride for free with their Student ID. Others can buy a bus pass at a discounted rate. Starting April 1, 2026, all students of Spokane Colleges must board STA routes using the STA Connect App, regardless of free or discounted fares.
Trade and Vocational Institutions: We offer a 20% discount on monthly fare capping for students enrolled in educational or training programs, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or any post-high school courses. See our Reduced Fares page for more information.