Housing & transportation
On-campus housing
There are a variety of on-campus housing options for students.
Visit Residence Services to find out what's available and apply online. Space is limited, so apply as soon as possible.
Off-campus housing
Searching for housing in a new city, and especially a new country, can be challenging. If you plan to live off campus, it will be important to familiarize yourself with the available options, understand some key considerations, and know how to avoid scams.
Transportation
Transit system
UVic is a major transit hub. Plan your commute on Victoria's transit system which operates 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Most students registered in at least one on-campus course for credit will be enrolled in the U-Pass program.
Starting September 2023, you'll need to use the new Umo mobile app or a reloadable Umo card to show proof of payment on all buses in the Victoria Regional Transit System. The UVic ONECard will no longer operate as your bus pass.
You'll need to activate your U-Pass every term with that term's unique-to-you UVic benefit code.
For more information on how to activate and use your U-Pass, visit the U-Pass program website.
Exchange and visiting research students
Exchange and visiting research students are not automatically enrolled in the U-Pass program. You can opt in by purchasing a University of Victoria Students' Society or Graduate Students' Society membership package.
If you prefer not to purchase a UVSS or GSS membership, you can access the transit system using cash, purchase tickets from a fare product vendor, or pay via Umo which is a contactless fare payment system. To use Umo, you can download the Umo app or get a free reloadable Umo card from fare product vendors around Victoria. On campus, the UVSS, GSS, and UVic Campus Pharmacy can provide Umo cards. You can then buy a pass or load cash through the app, online at ca.umopass.com, at a vendor location, or through Umo’s customer service toll-free at 877-380-8181.
Cycling
Visit our campus cycling hub to learn about the Campus Bike Centre, bike sharing and loan programs, showers and change rooms, lockers, route maps and more.
Driving
You must have a valid driver’s licence and insurance to drive a vehicle in British Columbia. Visit Get your identification for more information. If you have questions, contact the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) more information.
UVic offers alternative driving options including car sharing programs, you don't have your own car. We also have a range of parking options.
Taxis
Taxis in Victoria are operated by well-established companies that provide safe transportation and electronically metered fares.