Seattle Promise Scholar Transit (ORCA) Pass
- Assistance
- $1,200 average annual savings
- Deadline
- None
- Time to apply
- 5-10 mins
- Processing time
- 3-5 days
Overview
Seattle Promise is the City of Seattle’s college tuition and student success program designed to provide the financial support and personal guidance needed to thrive in college. The Seattle Promise Scholar Transit Pass Program provides Seattle Promise Scholars with a free, unlimited use ORCA card while enrolled in the program.
The card can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is valid through August 31 of scholars’ final year in the Seattle Promise program. This program is funded by the Seattle Transit Measure.
How much can I save with this program?
With this program, you can expect to save an average of $1,200 annually.
Eligibility
Anyone who is currently a Seattle Promise Scholar can participate in the Transit Pass program and receive a free ORCA card.
The Seattle Promise program, managed by Seattle Colleges, is open to all Seattle public high school graduates. For more information, see the Seattle Promise Webpage.
How to Apply
There are two ways to get your ORCA card:
In Person
As part of the Seattle Promise Scholars program, you will be required to attend Summer Bridge (New Student Orientation) in late Summer/ early Fall before you begin the program.
You can pick up your ORCA card in person on the following dates:
- Seattle Central
- September 16, 2025 2:30-4:00pm
- South Seattle
- September 17, 2025 10:30-11:30am
- North Seattle
- September 17, 2025 2:30-4:00 pm
- September 18, 2025 11:30-1:00pm
In the Mail
If you did not pick up your ORCA card at Orientation or you need a replacement card, fill out the online Enrollment Form. An ORCA card will be mailed to the address you provide within 1-2 weeks.
FAQs
- Community Transit
- Everett Transit
- King County Water Taxi
- King County Metro
- Kitsap Transit
- Pierce Transit
- Seattle Streetcar
- Sound Transit
- Seattle Center Monorail
If you have a lost/damaged card, please complete the Enrollment Form linked above to request a replacement card. If you have additional questions, you can email DOT_TAP@seattle.gov or call/text (206) 256-6722.
All replacement cards will be issued at no cost.
For more information about how to use your new ORCA Card, please visit King County Metro’s “How to Ride” website. It also includes tips to help you navigate public transportation across the region.
The Seattle Promise program is open to all Seattle public high school graduates regardless of grade point average (GPA), income or country of birth. For more information about the Seattle Promise Program and eligibility, see the Seattle Promise Webpage.