In Partnership with WUSA, the Stratford School is pleased to continue a Pilot Bus program, with limited seating capacity on a trial basis for the Winter 2025 term. Thanks to the GBDA Society for championing this initiative!
Term passes are sold on a first come first serve basis, allowing you to use the bus as often as you need throughout the term.
First-year students do not need to purchase a Stratford School Bus Pass for GBDA 101 on Fridays.
Cheaper, Greener, and Reliable
WUSA, the GBDA Society, and the Stratford School have worked hard to ensure this program is an affordable and safe option for students.
If you attend classes 3 days/week throughout the term (12 weeks), your 1-way trip is only $2.75. From our transportation survey results, the average cost of a carpool seat was $6.23. The more you attend campus for class or events, the cheaper your per-trip cost becomes.
FAQ:
How much does the Winter term pass cost?
$175 +HST (Winter 2025)
The term pass provides unlimited access to the bus throughout one academic term. If you used the bus to come to Stratford three days per week through the term (12 weeks), your one-way trip could cost $2.75 including tax
Will a WatCARD be required for every trip?
Students must have their WATCARD to ride the bus. Going forward alternative identification or proof of purchase cannot be verified at time of pick-up. If you do not present your WATCARD you will not be permitted to ride the bus. No exceptions will be made.
When does the bus run?
The bus departs departs Waterloo in the morning and afternoon. Check out the full schedule here.
What days does the bus service start and end?
Bus service starts on the first day of classes at the UW Stratford School on January, 6th, 2025, and runs until the last day of classes, Winter 2025. Buses will not run during holidays and/or university closures.
No Bus Service on Reading Week.
Where does the bus pick-up and drop-off?
New for Winter 2025! In Waterloo, the bus picks up and drops off on Ring Road in front of Hagey Hall at the South end of campus. See on Google Maps.
Fall 2024: In Waterloo, the bus picks up and drops off on Ring Road in front of DC (Davis Centre). See on Google Maps.
In Stratford, the bus picks up and drops off at the Stratford Bus Terminal across from the Bradshaw Building. See on Google Maps.
How are Bus Pass Holders notified about Bussing Cancellations due to Inclement Winter Weather?
On days when the Stratford Campus is closed, bus service will not run. Check out the Campus Status page for real-time info on Campus Closures.
Am I able to purchase a one-day pass for the bus?
At this time, only term passes are available.
If I don’t buy a pass at the beginning of the term will a prorated pass be available?
Passes are not pro-rated, so you will get the most value by purchasing early and using often.
I'm in my first-year of GBDA. Do I need to buy a bus pass to get to Stratford for GBDA 101 on Fridays?
No. Students enrolled in GBDA 101 in either Fall or Winter term are provided shuttle service to and from their GBDA 101 course. There is no charge to the student and no pass required. Students in GBDA 101 will receive transportation details via email and on their LEARN Channel for GBDA 101 at start for term. Please expect to be in Stratford for the full day.
Are passes transferable?
No. Passes are to be used only by the student who purchased it. WatCard must be presented to board the bus.
Who can buy a pass?
Only Stratford students can buy a pass for the Stratford bus.
Why is it more expensive than U-pass?
The GRT U-pass pricing is negotiated on a 5-year term, with the leverage of 65,000 undergraduate and graduate students in the Waterloo region. The Stratford Bus Pass has a smaller user base, and travels directly between the campuses.
Perth-County Connect Transit System, which has service between Stratford and Waterloo, charges students $10 for each one-way trip. To come to campus 3 times/week with public transportation could cost over $720/per term.
I bought a bus pass but no longer need one. What should I do?
Please contact gbda.advising@uwaterloo.ca for any bus pass cancellation requests.