How to get around Toronto and surrounding area
Toronto and surrounding area are well-connected by local and regional transit. Download these student-favorite apps to best navigate transit schedules and get to class on time:
U of T’s Transportation website has some great resources on how to navigate the train, subway, parking, cycling, and more.
Local Toronto transit
For moving around Toronto (especially downtown) the subway, streetcars and buses run by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) are your main local mode.
- View TTC maps and schedules. Better yet, use one of the transit apps above, Google Maps, or Apple Maps to plan your route.
- The U of T campus can be accessed from many subway stops on the University Line: Queen’s Park, Museum, St. George and Spadina all provide access to campus.
- Because the downtown core and business district are very transit-friendly, you don’t need a car. The subway + streetcar network will get you to many places for Rotman Commerce interviews, internships and events.
Tip for Rotman Commerce students: Since your classes and many career events will be in downtown Toronto, living within reach of downtown (or in transit-accessible suburbs) can make life easier.
Regional transit
If you live outside of downtown Toronto (Mississauga, Brampton, other nearby suburbs) and want to commute to U of T, the GO Bus or GO Train is your best bet.
- GO Transit (train + bus) serves many communities in the GTA and brings you into downtown Toronto at Union Station. (transportation.utoronto.ca)
- Getting to your GO station: walking, biking, bus or driving (parking and reserved spaces are available at many GO stations) are options. (gotransit.com)
- Student discount: As a full-time post-secondary student you are eligible for a 40% discount on GO fares when you use the correct fare-type on your PRESTO card. (gotransit.com)
How to pay for transit
PRESTO is the reloadable electronic fare card and payment system used across many transit agencies in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. You can get a physical PRESTO card or use PRESTO in your mobile wallet.
You may also tap your credit card/debit card to pay for the TTC and GO Buses/Trains. Credit cards in your mobile wallet will work as well.
Student discounts for transit
As a post-secondary student you have several opportunities to save on transit fares:
- GO Transit student discount
- Full-time post-secondary students are eligible for a 40% discount on GO fares when using PRESTO with the Student Fare type. (gotransit.com)
- You’ll need your student ID and a GO Student ID to set up the correct fare type.
- TTC student fares and photo IDs
Important student tips:
- Make sure your PRESTO card is set up for the correct fare category (Student/Post-Secondary) so you receive the correct discount.
- Always tap as required (on and off if needed) to avoid paying higher adult fare.
- Keep your student ID with you in case fare inspectors ask.
- Check whether your monthly pass or discount covers all modes you’ll use (GO + local transit transfers) or if you’ll need to pay extra.
Who to Contact for Help
Reach out the U of T Transportation Services team for help with student transit passes and directions.
