Q&A: RTD CollegePass Update for Auraria Campus Students

Q1: What is the new RTD CollegePass option for students? 

A1: RTD now offers a semester pass option, which students can purchase in the same way they bought the old CollegePass. The Fall 2026 RTD CollegePass will be available for $250 from Aug. 1 and will be valid until December 31, 2026.   

Q2: Why has the price of the RTD CollegePass increased? 

A2: RTD raised the price of the traditional CollegePass by 128% from 2024. This significant increase would have forced the CollegePass to increase to over $400/semester for students, which was not a viable option. The decision to move to a new semester pass option was jointly reviewed and negotiated by Auraria Campus, RTD, MSU Denver, Community College of Denver, and the University of Colorado Denver. 

Q3: How much will the new pass cost me, and how is Auraria Campus helping with the increase?  

A3: RTD charges $70 per month per pass. However, Auraria Campus will subsidize $20 per month to help cover some of the increase. This means you’ll pay $250 for the Fall 2026 semester, which is less than what you would have paid without the subsidy. Additionally, pro-rated amounts will go into effect as we progress throughout the semester. Please contact the ID Station for more information. 

Q4: Why didn’t Auraria Campus continue with the previous CollegePass program? 

A4: The price increase from RTD, coupled with the temporary shutdown of the Colfax station due to the Downtown Rail Project, made the old CollegePass system unsustainable for the future. The ridership numbers from last year also didn’t justify continuing with that program, leading to the decision to move to the new semester pass. 

Q5: Who is eligible for the RTD CollegePass? 

A5: You are eligible if you are an Auraria Campus student registered for the current semester and have a valid Auraria Campus student ID. 

Q6: How do I activate my RTD Mobile CollegePass? 

A6: Skip the line and go online! Acquire the RTD app and activate your Student CollegePass on your phone by following the directions available on the Auraria Campus website.  

Q7: Are you 19 years old or younger and why is that important?   

A7: If you’re 19 or younger, you qualify to ride free, so you won’t need to pay for the new semester pass. Just show proof of age when you ride.

Q8: What benefits does the RTD Mobile CollegePass provide?   

A8: The RTD Mobile CollegePass gives you access to trains, buses, and trips to and from the airport. It offers the same benefits as the previous CollegePass.