Faculty and Staff SEPTA Key Advantage UPass Pilot Program

Swarthmore’s participation in the Faculty and Staff SEPTA Key Advantage UPass Pilot Program enhances the living, learning, and working experience for our community members and strengthens our commitment to sustainability by facilitating the use of public transportation by faculty and staff members when they commute to campus.

As long as your are enrolled in the program, your Key Card can be used anywhere on SEPTA’s network of subways, buses, trolleys, and Regional Rail lines, and is valid at all times and on all services provided by SEPTA, with a 240-ride limit per month (8 rides per day). 

The pilot program runs through June 30, 2026.

Who is eligible for this pilot program?

If you are a full- or part-time, benefits-eligible Swarthmore College faculty or staff member, you are eligible for this program. Only eligible faculty and staff members can participate, and you will not be able to share, transfer, or sell Key Cards.

How do I enroll in this pilot program?

If you already enrolled in the Spring 2025 faculty staff pilot program, you do not need to re-enroll in the extended 2025-2026 pilot. If you have not yet enrolled, please take the following steps:

• Complete the required enrollment form.
• After completing your form, you may pick up your Key Card at the OneCard office, located at Parrish Hall 131A, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. Each eligible faculty and staff member will be provided with one free Key Card.
• Register your new Key Card with SEPTA.
• After registering your card, you can enroll in the Key Advantage UPass Program. The enrollment process uses a platform called Jawnt. Eligible faculty and staff members will also receive an email with enrollment instructions directly from Jawnt.  

Do I have to enroll for the whole year of the extended pilot?

As of July 2025, Faculty Staff SEPTA Key Advantage UPass Pilot Program is month to month. If you wish to discontinue your participation, simply complete this form; please keep in mind that your form must be submitted by the 20th day of the month prior to the month in which you are opting out.  

Can I opt out for the summer months if I will not be commuting to campus?

You have the option to opt-out of participating in the program during the summer months if you don’t expect to commute to the College in July or August. To opt out of one or both months, please fill out this form by June 20, 2025. If you plan to participate in the program again in September, you will need to re-enroll, following the steps above.

Can I use my Transit Flexible Spending Account (FSA) benefit and participate in this program?

Yes, you can both use your commuter transit FSA and participate in this program.

What if I already have a SEPTA Key Card?

If you already have a SEPTA Key Card, you can enroll your current Key Card into the Key Advantage UPass program.  You will need to verify that your card does not have a negative balance as the Swarthmore pass cannot be loaded with a negative balance showing. Credit can be applied to a negative balance on the SEPTA Key site.

What happens if I lose my Key Card?

If you lose your Key Card, you should report it lost to SEPTA. You can purchase a replacement Key Card at the OneCard office for $5.

How can I make my way around the Philadelphia area on SEPTA?

Swarthmore is a stop on SEPTA's regional rail system. The SEPTA Trip Planner helps you plan your trips around the city and surrounding areas — just put in your starting point and destination.