Types of Passes
MBTA Semester T-Pass Program
Most students order the MBTA’s Link Pass or Zone 1A Pass. They cover almost the exact same service area of the transit system, but they function somewhat differently:
Link Pass: The Link Pass allows for unlimited service on subway (red, green, orange, silver line etc.) and local bus. It does not allow for any Commuter Rail services. Link Passes are valid during the entire semester (September-December or January-May), so you will receive only one physical card for use at the start of the semester. If that card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced, typically within one week.
Zone 1A Pass: The Zone 1A Pass allows for unlimited service on subway (red, green, orange, silver line etc.) and local bus (the same as a Link Pass as mentioned above) as well as Commuter Rail service in Zone 1A. Zone 1A refers to the Commuter Rail system’s core zone centralized in Boston. A Zone 1A pass is valid for only the specific month for which it is issued. You would need to pick up a different physical card each month from the NBSS Receptionist. The Zone 1A pass cannot be replaced if lost or stolen; you would need to wait until the next month for a new pass to become available. The MBTA does not issue refunds under any circumstances.
For those students living further outside of Boston, additional zone options for the Commuter Rail are available.