Mobile Cougar Card
The University of Houston's mobile Cougar Card is one of the University's official IDs. It's a secure and convenient way for students, faculty, and staff to access campus using an iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android device. Store your Cougar Card in your Apple Wallet or access it on your Android device through the Atrium Campus Connect app. Simply tap your device to access buildings, campus services, and payment systems.
The Path to Mobile Cougar Card
Pilot Testing Participants
If you've been selected for the pilot group and need assistance check out our mobile Cougar Card FAQs.
New Students (Summer 2026 NSO Attendees)
Students attending New Student Orientation in Summer 2026 will be the first group to able to obtain their mobile Cougar Card.
New Faculty & Staff (Summer 2026)
Eligible employees hired late summer will be able to obtain their mobile Cougar Card beginning on their start date.
Current Students, Faculty & Staff (Fall 2026)
All current campus community members will be able to transition from a physical Cougar Card to a mobile Cougar Card starting Fall 2026.
Device Compatibility
- iPhone — iPhone SE, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, or later running the latest version of iOS 12 or above.
- Apple Watch — Apple Watch Series 1 or later running the latest version of watchOS.
- Android — Version 6.0 or later.
Latest operating systems strongly recommended. Your device must have a built-in and enabled NFC connection.
Getting Started
- Submit your photo through Cougar Card Connect in AccessUH (see photo requirements).
- Allow 24-48 business hours for your photo to be reviewed.
- Once the mobile Cougar Card has launched steps to begin using your mobile Cougar Card in minutes will be listed below.
Benefits of a Mobile Cougar Card
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- No physical card required.
- Your Cougar Card lives in your Apple Wallet or on your Android device through the Atrium Connect app.
- Account balances available.
- Always with you — Most people never forget their phone.
- Quick, tap-and-go entry at residence halls, academic buildings, and facilities.
- Streamlined experience for busy days, events, and peak campus hours.
- Protected by your device.
- Mobile credentials use built-in security features.
- Instant deactivation — If your phone is lost, your credential can be suspended immediately without needing to replace a physical card.
- Reduced risk — Eliminates concerns about lost, stolen, or shared cards.
- No replacement fees for mobile Cougar Cards — If your phone is lost or you get a new one, you can easily activate it in a new phone or device with no fees.
- Same access, modern delivery.
- Mobile credentials work anywhere your Cougar Card is accepted.
- Easy setup — Add your mobile Cougar Card in just a few steps.
- Supports modern lifestyles — Designed for how students, faculty, and staff already move through campus.
- Less plastic — Reduces the need for replacement cards.
- Eco-friendly choice — Supports UH’s sustainability efforts by minimizing physical materials.