How to Get a Student Travel Card in the UK?

Whether you're commuting to uni, heading to your part-time job, or exploring the UK on a budget — having a student travel card can save you a lot of money. Here's everything you need to know about how to get one in 2025.

 

What Is a Student Travel Card?

A student travel card (or railcard) gives discounts on public transport — trains, buses, tubes and more. There are different types depending on where you live and how you travel.

 

Types of Student Travel Cards in the UK

Here are the main ones:

1. 16–25 Railcard

  • Discount: 1/3 off train travel across the UK
  • Eligibility: Aged 16–25, or over 25 in full-time education
  • Cost: £30/year or £70 for 3 years
  • Where to apply: 16-25 Railcard Website

2. TOTUM Card (with Railcard add-on)

  • Bonus: Discounts at restaurants, shops, plus 1/3 off trains
  • Cost: Around £24/year (extra for the Railcard bundle)
  • Where to apply: TOTUM.com

3. London: 18+ Student Oyster Card

  • Discount: 30% off adult-rate travelcards and bus/tram season tickets
  • Eligibility: Studying in London for at least 14 weeks
  • Cost: £20 admin fee
  • Where to apply: TfL 18+ Oyster Application

4. Regional Student Bus Passes

  • Areas like Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Glasgow have local student bus passes. Check your local operator (e.g. Stagecoach, Arriva, First Bus).

 

How to Add Your Railcard to Your Oyster Card

Want to save on London Underground, Overground, and rail services in London? If you have a 16–25 Railcard, you can link it to your Oyster to get 1/3 off off-peak fares.

Steps to Link Your Railcard:

  1. Buy a Railcard – online or at a station.
  2. Get an Oyster card – standard or 18+ Student Oyster.
  3. Visit a London Underground station with:
    • Your Oyster card
    • Your valid Railcard

    • A staff member will link them at the ticket machine or kiosk.

      🕒 It only takes a few minutes and must be done in person – you can’t link it online.

Once linked, you’ll get automatic discounts on:

  • Off-peak pay-as-you-go fares
  • Daily caps
  • Off-peak travelcards

 

📝 What You’ll Need to Apply

Most student travel cards require:

  • Proof of age or student status (student ID or university letter)
  • Passport-style photo (for photo cards)
  • Online account creation on the provider’s website
  • Payment (via card or PayPal)

 

Quick Tips to Save More

  • Combine discounts: In London, use a Railcard + Oyster to save even more.
  • Use digital cards: Many travel cards can now be added to your phone.
  • Travel off-peak: Student discounts work best during off-peak hours.
  • Keep your ID handy: Some operators may ask to see your student ID alongside your pass.

 

Final Thoughts

A student travel card is a must-have if you’re living and studying in the UK. It saves you money, simplifies your commute, and makes spontaneous trips way more affordable. Whether you're on trains, tubes, or buses — make sure you're not paying full price!

 

Got Questions?
Drop us a comment or DM and we’ll help you find the right pass for your journey.