Commuter FAQ

How many commuter students attend APU?

33 percent of our undergraduate students are commuters, and we also serve all of our Azusa campus graduate and professional students.

What benefits and services are there for commuter students? If I am a graduate and professional student, am I allowed to use these services?

We provide a variety of commuter services including printing, a snack and cup of coffee each day, office supplies, access to microwaves and a refrigerator, commuter lockers, and commuter programming. All undergraduate and graduate commuter students are welcome to use these resources and attend commuter-specific events.

Is there a place specifically for commuter students on campus?

The Cougar Dome, which is our Student Union on campus, is where the Office of Commuter Life is located. We like to tell our commuters that “the Dome is their home,” and this is also where our services are located.

Where can I put my stuff?

In our East or West Campus lockers! Sign up on the Lockers page. Lockers are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis but are free and reassigned at the beginning of every semester.

How do I request to live off-campus and commute to APU?

APU students are required to live on campus their first and second years as APU students, but you may complete a Request for Campus Housing Exemption Form if you fall under any of the following categories:

  • Are in incoming freshman (or transfer freshman or sophomore) and you live with your parent(s) locally
  • Are over 21
  • Are married
  • Have part-time status
  • Have other special circumstances that present an obstacle to campus residency

How do I find out about the Writing Center, the Academic Success Center, and other great campus resources?

Learn more online about these and other resources on campus.

As an off-campus student, how can I still eat on campus if I don’t have a student meal plan?

You can purchase Cougar Bucks, which are funds available on your APU ID card that can be spent on campus, similar to a prepaid debit card. To add money to your Cougar Bucks account, log into our online Billing and Payment System, click on “Make Payment,” then click on “Deposit Funds to your Cougar Bucks Account.” Once your transaction is complete, your Cougar Bucks are immediately available to spend.

Where do I park?

As a commuter student, you can park in Lot A on East Campus, as well as Lot H on West Campus. To park on campus, you will need to obtain a parking permit through the Department of Campus Safety. Due to the fact that parking on East Campus can be challenging during peak hours, we also encourage you to utilize our trolley service to go between campuses—find a trolley using our Trolley Tracker!

What options are there for public transportation?

There are many public transportation options for our commuter students. Visit our Public Transportation page to learn more.

Are there refrigerators and microwaves available for me to use?

Yes, there is a refrigerator and two microwaves in the Cougar Dome on East Campus, and there are microwaves in Heritage Court on West Campus.

Who can I contact for more information about Commuter Life?

Email us at commuters@apu.edu, visit us in the Cougar Dome, or call us at (626) 812-3032.

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