Student railcard: The ultimate guide
As a student, it’s helpful to take advantage of perks and discounts where you can - and a student railcard is no exception.
If you frequently travel by train, a student railcard can pay for itself in savings and then some. Knowing how to get a railcard and exploring the different types available can help you make the most of your travel and lighten the financial pressure of student life.
What is a student railcard?
A student railcard is a discount card that gets you 1/3 off of most UK train tickets. It’s also known as a 16-25 railcard (more on why later) and can be used on Standard Advance and First Class Advance tickets, as well as Anytime, Off-Peak and Super-Off Peak Singles and Returns.
Who is eligible for a student railcard?
A student railcard is also known as a 16-25 railcard, as those aged 16 - 25 are eligible for this discount card too.
The following people are eligible for a student railcard:
- Those aged 16 - 25 years old
- Students over 26 and in full-time education (i.e., a mature student railcard)
- Full-time education qualifies as attending university or college for 15+ hours a week and 20+ weeks a year
How to get a student railcard
There are two main ways to apply for a student railcard.
- Buy online (for 1 year and 3 year railcards)
- Collect at a station (just for 1 year railcards)
Buying a student railcard online
You can buy a 16-25 student railcard quickly and conveniently online. Here’s how to do it.
What you’ll need:
- ID (acceptable documents include your passport, a UK Driving Licence, or an EEA National Identity Card)
- A passport-style photo of yourself on your computer or phone. A selfie is fine, so long as you don’t use any filters.
- A device with the Railcard App installed (if you want a digital railcard)
- Your debit or credit card
How to apply for a railcard online:
- Head to a relevant online application page. You can apply online via Railcard.co.uk or reputable platforms like Trainline. Just note, you can’t apply for a mature student railcard on Trainline.
- Complete the relevant online application forms. Here, you’ll be asked to provide your ID, a picture of yourself, payment details, and more.
- Download your Digital Railcard or wait for your physical copy in the post.
Buying a student railcard at the station
You can also buy a student railcard from any train station with a staffed ticket office. Here’s how.
What you’ll need:
- ID (acceptable documents include your passport, a UK Driving Licence, or an EEA National Identity Card).
- A physical passport-style photo of yourself.
- A completed application form.
- If you’re applying for a mature student railcard, you must also provide a completed Mature Student Application form.
- Your debit or credit card.
How to apply for a railcard at the station:
- Visit a staffed ticket office at any train station. If you’re catching a train afterward, allow plenty of time before your journey.
- Provide all of the relevant documents and information listed above.
- Pay for your student railcard and receive it straight away.
How much does a student railcard cost?
A student railcard costs £30 for one year and £70 for three. While there is an initial cost, the 1/3 discount you’ll get in return means the railcard will likely pay for itself.
Where can you use your student railcard?
You can use your student railcard on most train journeys throughout Great Britain (i.e., England, Scotland, and Wales). You can’t use your student railcard on Eurostar services or Heritage Railways.
Linking your railcard to your oyster
Student railcards can also be linked to your Oyster card for Off-Peak travel, meaning you’ll get 1/3 off when you travel outside of On-Peak hours. Find out more about linking a student railcard to an Oyster card.
FAQs on student railcards
Can I use my student railcard to travel abroad?
No, you can only get this particular railcard student discount when travelling within Great Britain. Anywhere outside this area (including Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland) does not accept the 16-25 student railcard.
Can I transfer my student railcard to someone else?
No, you cannot transfer your student railcard discount to someone else. If someone else is caught trying to use your student railcard, they’ll be charged the full price for the journey and might receive a Penalty Fare, too.
Do I need to renew my student railcard?
Yes, if your 16-25 railcard expires before you’ve finished your studies, you can get this renewed online or at a train station.
You can also renew this railcard the day before your 26th birthday (provided it’s set to expire in the next 30 days).
Are you looking for student accommodation close to a train station? We have many sites within walking distance of the nearest railway station. Search iQ student accommodation by city, university or building.
