U of A now offers CatCard on iPhone, Apple Watch and Android devices
The University of Arizona today announced that students, faculty and staff can now add their CatCard to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet and use their iPhone, Apple Watch or Android Phone to access campus buildings, purchase meals and more. This launch follows a successful spring 2025 Early Access Program pilot, where more than 2,000 students and 200 faculty and staff tested this secure technology.
"I'm really excited to have CatCard on my phone. It means I won't have to worry about losing my card, forgetting it at home or getting locked out of campus spaces or services," said Linda Bojorquez-Lopez, a U of A mobile app UI/UX student designer and master's degree candidate in information science. "It's definitely going to make life on campus a lot easier."
Access spaces and make purchases with ease
To set up their mobile CatCard, students must download the University of Arizona app, authenticate with their university credentials and then follow the steps to add their CatCard to Apple Wallet or Android devices.
With the new mobile CatCard, students can complete any action that would have previously required a physical card – both on and off campus – with their iPhone, Apple Watch or Android devices. Students simply hold their device near a reader to enter dorms, libraries and fitness centers, as well as to buy lunch, make purchases at campus stores, print documents and more.
"Adding the University of Arizona's CatCard to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet offers a more accessible and convenient experience for our campus community and supports our progress toward a more connected and secure digital campus," said Elliott Cheu, interim chief information officer.
iPhone and Apple Watch users who add their mobile CatCard to Apple Wallet can enable Express Mode, which allows them to access locations with a tap of their device – without needing to unlock or wake up their device. If an iPhone needs to be charged, users can still access their campus or amenity spaces using Power Reserve.
The move from physical cards to mobile CatCard on iPhone, Apple Watch or Android devices allows for safe and secure transactions and convenient access to campus locations. The university can additionally issue mobile CatCards remotely without the need for students to request a CatCard in-person, eliminating the need to print and mail physical cards and creating a safer, more cost-effective and more environmentally friendly process. Physical CatCards will also remain available for those who prefer them.
