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Commute within University

Welcome to Boston! As a new student, navigating the city might seem overwhelming, but the MBTA, or "the T," makes commuting to and from campus easy and convenient. This guide covers essential transit options for students at Boston University, MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern, including public transit, shuttles, bike-sharing, and helpful tips for a smooth commute. Whether you're heading to class or exploring the city, this guide will ensure you travel like a local in no time!

Boston University (BU) - Navigating Public Transportation🚌🚇

Key Transportation Options:

  • BU Shuttle (The BUS): A free shuttle service connecting West, Central, and East campuses along Commonwealth Avenue. Accessible for all students and wheelchair-friendly.

  • Green Line B Branch: Runs through BU's Commonwealth Avenue with key stops at BU West, BU Central, and BU East. Connects students to Kenmore Square and beyond.

  • Route 57 Bus: An alternative to the Green Line, this bus runs along Commonwealth Avenue and stops at key BU locations.

  • Lansdowne Station (Commuter Rail): Ideal for students living in the suburbs, connecting to the Framingham/Worcester Line.

Additional Information:

  • Terrier Transit App: Provides real-time tracking for the BU shuttle.

  • Bikes (Bluebikes): Bike-sharing stations available at several BU locations, including BU Central and BU East. Students can get discounts on Bluebikes memberships.

Route Tips:

  • From Downtown Boston: Take the Green Line (B Branch) toward Boston College, with stops at major BU landmarks.

  • From Logan Airport: Use the Silver Line (bus) to South Station, then switch to the Red Line and finally to the Green Line (B Branch).

MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) - Navigating Public Transportation🚌🚇

Key Transportation Options:

  • Red Line: The main subway line serving MIT, with a stop at Kendall/MIT Station.

  • MIT T-pass Program: MIT offers subsidized MBTA passes, including options for subway, bus, commuter rail, and ferry use. Graduate students can receive up to a 70% discount.

  • Bus Routes: The #1 bus runs along Massachusetts Avenue and stops near Kendall/MIT Station.

  • Bluebikes: Several Bluebikes stations are located on and near campus for short commutes around the city.

Additional Information:

  • Atlas Service Center: Where you can pick up MBTA passes.

  • MIT Shuttle Services: Available for intercampus travel. MIT offers a safe and eco-friendly commuting experience.

Route Tips:

  • From Downtown Boston: Take the Red Line outbound to Kendall/MIT Station for easy access to the campus.

  • From Logan Airport: Use the Silver Line to South Station, then switch to the Red Line.

Harvard University - Navigating Public Transportation🚌🚇

Key Transportation Options:

  • Red Line: Harvard Square Station is a key stop on the Red Line, connecting students to downtown Boston and South Station. The Red Line provides easy access between Harvard’s Cambridge campus and the main city.

  • Harvard Shuttle Services: Free shuttles cover Cambridge, Allston, and Longwood campuses, with additional late-night on-demand services available.

  • Bus Routes: Several MBTA bus lines serve Harvard Square, including routes #1, #66, and #69.

  • Bluebikes: Numerous bike-sharing stations available across Harvard's campuses.

Additional Information:

  • PassioGo! App: Tracks Harvard shuttles in real time.

  • Harvard MBTA Pass Program: Offers up to a 60% discount on monthly MBTA passes for eligible students.

Route Tips:

  • From Downtown Boston: Take the Red Line to Harvard Square Station.

  • From Logan Airport: Use the Silver Line to South Station, then switch to the Red Line.

Northeastern University - Navigating Public Transportation🚌🚇

Key Transportation Options:

  • Green Line E Branch: The Northeastern University Station is located on the E branch of the Green Line. It connects students to the heart of the campus and other areas of the city.

  • Ruggles Station (Orange Line): Serves as another key station for Northeastern students, providing access to various parts of the city.

  • Northeastern's RedEye Shuttle: A late-night shuttle service that runs from 7 PM to 6 AM, offering safe transport around the campus and nearby off-campus housing.

Additional Information:

  • Semester Pass Program: Northeastern offers a discounted MBTA semester pass program, available through the Student Hub.

  • Bluebikes: Bike-sharing stations near campus allow for eco-friendly commuting options.

Route Tips:

  • From Downtown Boston: Take the Orange Line to Ruggles Station or the Green Line E Branch to Northeastern University Station.

  • From Logan Airport: Take the Silver Line to South Station, transfer to the Red Line, and then to the Orange Line at Downtown Crossing.

General Tips for Students in Boston:

  • CharlieCard vs. CharlieTicket: CharlieCards offer cheaper fares and free transfers between buses and subways, while CharlieTickets are paper tickets that are slightly more expensive.

  • Student Discounts: Many universities offer discounted MBTA passes for students, so be sure to check eligibility.

  • MBTA Apps: The MBTA app and Google Maps offer real-time updates and route planning. The Terrier Transit app and PassioGo! are also handy for tracking university shuttles.

  • Weather Considerations: Boston weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for rain, snow, and other weather conditions, especially in winter.