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Student Oyster Card: Benefits, Types, Balance Checking And Top-Ups

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Your Ticket to London

Ever feel like half your student loan goes straight to the transport gods in London? Bus journeys here, tube rides there – the cost can add up faster. But don't worry! This guide is your ultimate weapon against transport-related budget woes. We'll crack the code on the Student Oyster Card, reveal all the discounts it unlocks, and show you how to navigate the London transport system like a pro.

What Is A Student Oyster Card?

A Student Oyster Card is a smart card or pass that lets you travel on all the modes of public transport in London. It is contactless and can be topped up using a credit card. This card is the most popular way to pay for public transport in London. It allows you to pay as you go by adding money to it. 

Bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, most Elizabeth line, IFS Cloud Cable Car and Thames Clippers River Bus services all accept pay-as-you-go payments. You would be glad to know that these transport services run through most parts of London, including the best neighbourhoods! Read all about the best neighbourhoods in London!

What Is An 18+ Student Oyster Card?

The 18+ Student Oyster Card or photocard works exactly like the standard card, with the only difference being the presence of your photo and extra discounts. The card allows you to travel at discounted rates for the three years of your study program. You can also use the Student Oyster Card for the remainder of your study period. 

You save 30% on bus and tram passes and travel cards, and you get a 34% discount on low-traffic rail fares. Before applying for the card, ensure that you are eligible. 

Who Is Eligible For An Oyster Card?

Every student studying in an accredited university or college in London is eligible for a student Oyster Card. However, there are some eligibility criteria you must check before applying for a student Oyster card:

1. Aged 18 or above and residing in London during term time.

2. Enrolled as a full-time student with at least 15 tuition-led hours per week for 14 weeks.

3. Receiving NHS Bursary funds as a full-time student.

4. Pursuing full-time postgraduate studies.

5. Part-time postgraduate with a course lasting at least 14 weeks and receiving NHS bursary funds (proof required).

6. Serving as a sabbatical officer.

7. Engaged as a full-time student on a mandatory 14-week work placement in London.

Some exceptions in 18+ Student Oyster Photocard eligibility are:

1. Part-time students are typically ineligible for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard.

2. However, exceptions may be considered. You may contact the university office for more details. 

18+ Student Oyster Photocards

The 18+ Student Oyster Photocard is specifically designed for students aged 18 and above who reside in a London borough during term time and are enrolled in a TfL-registered school, college, or university. It features a photo for identification and grants holders a 30% discount on adult-rate travel cards and season tickets. 

Oyster Card London was introduced to alleviate commuting costs for London students. The Student Oyster Card is not valid for leisure travel discounts during vacations. The application is online and requires a digital photo, student enrolment ID, London address, and a valid debit or credit card for the £20 administration fee.

Benefits Of A Student Oyster Card

Getting an Oyster Card London to use in public transport is fast and efficient, alongside having many perks. Here are some of the many Student Oyster Card benefits that one can get:

1. Enjoy endless credit on your card—it never expires, ensuring peace of mind as you can use it anytime, even years later.

2. Seamlessly integrate the Pay as You Go feature with Travel cards for added flexibility.

3. Enjoy the effortless user-friendliness and incredible cost-effectiveness of the Student Oyster Card. Simplify your public transport experience with the Student Oyster Card. No more constant ticket purchases; just tap and go for convenience and savings.

4. Easy to navigate London's extensive public transport network, including trains, buses, trams, tubes, and more.

5. Reach the spending cap and ride worry-free - once reached, subsequent rides are on the house for the remainder of the day, with cap prices varying by zone. Unused card? No problem - simply request a hassle-free refund anytime.

Why Should I Buy A Visitor Oyster Card?

If you’re contemplating buying a card and are only planning on staying in London for a short period, you should certainly consider getting a Visitor Oyster Card. When you look at alternative transport options in London, Uber and taxi rentals prove to be quite expensive. For example, the average price of a short Uber drive, i.e., 1-5 miles, is £1 - £15 . In comparison, a visitor or Student Oyster Card is relatively more hassle-free and pocket-friendly.

The visitor Oyster Card prevents the need for constant cash transactions and ensures a smooth experience for visitors experiencing all the things to do in London. Visitor Oyster Cards are a great boon for tourists looking to explore all they can in the English capital.

Let the Oyster card take care of your daily expenses, you leave your accommodation needs to amber!

Book through amber today!

Standard vs. Visitor Oyster Cards

The types of Oyster card you can get differ based on your requirements. Although a Student Oyster Card is similar to a Standard Oyster Card, there is a small difference between them. Here is the difference.

How to Buy A Student Oyster Card?

It is quite easy to buy Student Oyster Cards as well as regular ones. London has made it incredibly accessible for most people to be in possession of one!

1. The Standard and Visitor Oyster Cards can be bought from the underground stations in London and the airports .

2. They are often readily available at ticket machines but can be purchased through newsagents or staffed ticket offices .

3. You can easily apply for a student oyster card online and have it delivered directly to your residence before entering the UK. 

4. The Standard Card can only be shipped to a UK address, but a visitor card can be shipped anywhere worldwide . 

5. Before you arrive, you won't have to go out and buy one later. To spend less money on the tourist centres in London, you can also get a card as part of a London Pass , but this can only be done online. The payment for the card is made through either cash, a debit card, or a credit card.

Oyster Card Student Login And Application Status

You can apply for a Student Oyster Card as well as check your application status by signing into your Card web account . If you have entered your phone number during the application process, you will receive a text message while your card is delivered.

How To Check Student Oyster Card Balance

Usually, the balance is displayed at the ticket gates, but if you missed it, there are other ways. Here are the ways for Oyster Card check balance:

Check Student Oyster Card Balance Online:

1. Visit the Transport for London (TfL) website

2. Sign in to your Oyster account

3. You’ll be able to see the remaining balance on your card

Please note that Visitor Oyster Cards can’t be registered. Thus, if you are looking to check your Oyster card balance online, it won’t be available

Check Student Oyster Card Balance Offline:

1. Visit any Oyster Ticket Stop, Oyster Ticket Machine, or Visitor Center in London

2. Touch your Student Oyster Card on the yellow reader of any ticket machine

3. You can see the balance on the screen

Remember, you can also see your balance every time you exit the tube

How Much Does A Student Oyster Card Cost?

The card charges offer many options. There is a pay-as-you-go option, a travel pass option, and a combination option, but the prices for each trip will differ. 

1. The regular card costs about £5, and the primary deposit can be refunded. 

2. The visitor card costs £5 as well, and this includes postage. 

The Student Oyster Card and regular prices can be checked online from your location to the one you're heading to. Till the daily cap is used, the cost of the subsequent trips is cheaper. The prices can also be changed by the time of the day. The prices are high compared to the rest of the day in the rush hours or busy hours from 6:30- 9:30 am and 4:00 -7:00 pm .

Student Oyster Card Discount

Students in London can easily get student discounts on their Oyster Cards. This is a highly feasible technique for international students who depend on public discounts while studying in London. Students over 18 can avail of 30% off Travel Cards and Bus and tram Passes . The card can be used to purchase Oyster Card’s monthly, student, and weekly passes.

How To Top-Up Oyster Cards

If London’s won over your heart, Student Oyster Cards are a must as the city has some of the best neighbourhoods so that you can plan the perfect trip to the city? Topping up a Student Oyster Card is putting in money to be used later during commuting. The following methods can be used for a Student Oyster Card recharge: 

1. The first way is to visit a visitor centre, station, or ticket desk at an Oyster ticket shop in the city. 

2. The second way is through the Oyster Website , which can only be done if you already have an account. If you do, you can log in and use the auto Oyster top-up or buy season tickets . 

3. The ticket machines at the stations in London, both overground and underground, have machines where you can hold up the card to review your balance and then click on the add top-up feature to add money through cash, credit, or debit.

4. The final option is to use the TfL Oyster app , which is almost the same as reloading credits from the site.

How To Apply For A Student Oyster Photocard?

Here are the steps to apply for an 18+ Student Oyster Photocard:

1. Complete your campus enrolment: You must complete your campus enrolment1 before you can apply for the photocard.

2. Visit the TfL website: Experience the convenience of our online application process by visiting the Transport for London (TfL) website.

3. Sign in or create an account: If you already have an account, sign in. If not, you’ll need to create one.

4. Provide necessary details: You’ll need to provide a colour digital photo, your student enrolment ID from your school, college, or university, a London address, and a valid debit or credit card to pay the £20 administration fee2.

5. Submit your application: After providing all the necessary details, submit your application.

Please note that your address must match the address that your school, college, or university has on record, or your application will be placed on hold. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your 18+ Student Oyster Photocard. This card will unlock a world of savings, allowing you to get 30% off adult-rate travel cards and season tickets.

So here was the A to Z of Student Oyster Cards that most people use in London. You can now easily navigate London zones and public transport . It will make commuting and getting around places by public transport so much easier and cheaper. And of course! Familiarising yourself with the London Underground could certainly help you navigate your way. Or you could just wing it! We hope this blog helped you understand everything you need to know about the Student Oyster Card. So, what are you waiting for?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of having a student oyster card, is oyster free for students, what should i do if my student oyster card is lost or stolen, how long is a student oyster card valid, and can it be renewed, can international students apply for a student oyster card, and what are the requirements, is the student oyster card worth it, what is the difference between a student oyster card and a normal oyster card.

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Everything students need to know about Travel Cards. Get your discount on Transport for London!

Traveling around London can be quite expensive for students. Luckily, all full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18 and over are eligible for a Student Oyster Photocard (student travel card London). This card gives them a 30% travel discount on most Transport for London services, including buses, the underground and trains.

If you’re 18 or over, live at a London address during term time and in full-time education, or on a mandatory work placement in London, you may be eligible for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard .

If you’re 18 and live in London, you may still be eligible for a Zip 16+ Oyster photocard which offers half-price travel on rail services and free travel on buses.

To apply for student travel card London, you must be enrolled:

• With a school, college or university that’s registered on the TfL scheme
• On a mandatory work placement in London or
• On an eligible full-time or part-time course  

You can top up your pay as you go credit and buy Travelcards for your 18+ Student Oyster photocard online. 

You can only do this via your 18+ Student Oyster photocard account. If you try to buy a Travelcard via a contactless and Oyster account, you will be charged the full adult price. 16-25 Railcard is a perfect solution for students who travel a lot by train. It costs £30 a year and gives you a third discount on all UK rail travel. You can get a 12% discount with the NUS Extra card .

The National Express Young Persons Coachcard costs £10 a year and gives people aged 16 to 26 a 1/3 discount on full National Express bus tickets for travelling to anywhere in the UK.

3 thoughts on “Everything students need to know about Travel Cards. Get your discount on Transport for London!”

Hurrah! After all I got a web site from where I know how to really take valuable facts concerning my study and knowledge.

Very useful information. Amazing article! Well done!

To the unibritannica.com webmaster, You always provide clear explanations and step-by-step instructions.

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November 30th, 2022

How to apply for and use your 18+ student oyster photocard.

2 comments | 14 shares

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

If you’re new to London, one of the first things you’ll notice is the convenient and efficient public transport system the city has. Transport for London (TfL) has impressive connectivity across the city that helps you get anywhere you’d like to go with great ease. As a student, the 18+ Student Oyster Photocard helps you cut down on travel costs and makes exploring the city fun and affordable. How, you ask? Read on.

What is it?

The 18+ Student Oyster Photocard is specifically designed for students living and studying in London. It’s a card that you tap-in and tap-out (for the tube) and tap-in only (for the bus) to pay for your ride. It’s different from the usual Oyster Card because it’s got your picture printed on it and offers you discounted rates.

How do I apply?

To apply for the student photocard, you have to first complete your campus enrolment and then apply online on the TfL website . The card costs £20 and remains valid until the end of your course. The application process is straightforward and requires basic information covering your student enrolment ID, London address and digital photograph. Be sure to check the instructions for your photograph before uploading.

After application submission, the university approves it and then TfL will post your card to your address. You will receive email/text updates on your application.

I received my card within two weeks of applying.

What are the benefits?

The student photocard helps you save 30% on adult-rate Travelcards as well as on Bus and Tram Passes . Once you receive your card, you can buy discounted travelcards and bus passes on the TfL website. You can also add pay as you go credit but there are no discounts for this.

The adult fare for a 7-day bus pass is £23.30 but with a 30% discount using the student photocard, the price drops to £16.30. For the tube, between Zone 1-2 the adult fare for the 7-day travelcard is £38.40 but the discounted travelcard using the student photocard costs £26.80.

Another benefit of the student photocard is that you can add your 16-25 Railcard to it. By doing this, you can save 34% on pay as you go fares during off-peak hours. You can apply for the 16-25 Railcard online and it costs £30 per year. If you’re between 16-25 years old or a mature student , you’re eligible to apply. Once you receive your card, you can link it to your student photocard at any tube station by asking a staff member.

How do I make my choice?

The choice between travelcards and pay as you go fares depends on how often you plan to take public transport. Compare the prices of the discounted travelcards and pay as you go fares for the number of journeys you will make. If you will take more than two rides each day for the whole week, the discounted travelcard on your student photocard will be economical. If not, you’re better off with pay as you go fares. It’s cost-effective to buy 7-day travelcards as opposed to the monthly ones because during some months you would not use public transport as frequently and so a 7-day travelcard helps you save money.

I usually take between 6 to 8 rides a week. So, pay as you go fares are economical for me.

Any tips for navigating public transport?

• Getting around London becomes super easy with a transport app. Citymapper is a great one that gives you several route options with real-time updates on delays.
• Check for updates from TfL when planning your journeys. This is especially useful when there are planned closures on the transport network.
• Check for weather updates before planning your travel and always leave some buffer time to avoid running late.
• If you can, do check out alternate modes of transport for a change. London is a very walkable city and it also has a great cycling network.

About the author

I’m Aish, an MPhil/PhD student at the Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science. I study the impact that personality characteristics can have on performance at the workplace. When I’m not actively PhD-ing, I spend my time cooking, writing, and hula-hooping.

I’m so interested by joining your team how to apply

LSE have rejected my student oyster verification… who can I contact at LSE about this? Thanks

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How To Travel Around London

Get A Student Oyster Card To Save Money On Tube, DLR, Bus And Overground

Use A Student Travel Card

Before you go! Have you read our Magazine?

King's College London

Student oyster photocard.

All full-time undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18 and over may be eligible for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard , which provides a 30 per cent travel discount on most Transport for London (TfL) services.

The 18+ Student Oyster photocard enables you to buy Travelcards and Bus & Tram Pass season tickets at 30 per cent off the equivalent adult weekly and monthly fares. These are for use on:

• National Rail trains in the London area
• the London Underground (the tube)
• Docklands Light Railway
• London bus services

Am I eligible?

To be eligible for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard, you must be aged 18, be living at a London address during term time AND be one of the following:

• a full-time student enrolled on a full-time course, consisting of 15 or more tuition-led and/or structured learning hours a week over a period of at least 14 weeks
• receiving NHS Bursary funds as a full-time student (proof is required)
• a full-time postgraduate student (e.g. studying or writing up for 15 or more hours per week)
• a part-time postgraduate student on a course lasting at least 14 weeks, and receiving NHS bursary funds (you must provide evidence of this)
• a sabbatical officer
• a full-time student as defined above on mandatory work placement in London for a minimum period of 14 weeks

Part-Time Students

Please be aware that part-time students are generally not eligible under the terms of the 18+ Student Oyster photocard scheme, and applications will not be approved automatically.

If you are a part-time student and believe that you qualify for an 18+ Student Oyster Photocard, please contact the Student Funding Office by emailing [email protected] providing your name, King's ID and course details, and let us know which criteria you believe you qualify under. 

How do I apply?

Applying online is the only way to receive your discount entitlement. Your 18+ Student Oyster photocard will be sent to the address you provide and should arrive within five to seven days after approval from King's (this is carried out by the Student Funding Office ). 

Please note that when applying you will need:

• A colour, digital photo
• Your student, enrolment ID from your school, college or university
• A London address
• A valid debit or credit card to pay the £20 administration fee
• An active, valid email address

When applying for your TfL 18+ oyster card please ensure you search for 'Kings College London' and select the entry with address ‘Kings College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, 57 Waterloo Road.’

If selecting the institution from a list, make sure to select Kings College London, and not the NHS Foundation Trust or “Kings London.”

If you don’t apply to the correct 'Kings College London' your application will be rejected by another institution and you may have to make a new application and incur the £20 administration fee again.

When entering your Course Details (Step 3) you will be asked to provide your Student enrolment (ID) Number. This is the 7 or 8 digit number on your student card. Please do not enter the ID that begins with a “K” as this may cause delays in approving your application.

18+ Student Oyster photocard

Applications cannot be approved until your first day of term, so we will not be able to submit approval before this date. 

We will only be able to approve applications for students who have fully completed registration, including on-campus enrolment and the collection of their student ID card.

If you have any further issues, please contact the Student Funding Office on [email protected]. 

16+ Zip Oyster photocard

As King's is a university, under the terms and conditions of the 16+ Zip Oyster Photocard scheme we are not able to approve applications for this scheme. Students at King's who are not yet 18 will be able to apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard after their eighteenth birthday.

Can I get discount on National Rail?

Students can apply for a National Rail 16-25 Railcard (formerly known as a Young Persons Railcard). It costs £30 and saves students 1/3 on rail fares throughout Great Britain for a whole year. For information about eligibility and how to apply visit the 16-25 Railcard website .

Mature students (over the age of 26 and in full-time education) can also apply.

Changes in Registration

Please note that if your registration status changes (e.g. if you graduate, interrupt or withdraw from your studies or change your study status to part-time), you may no longer be entitled to the 18+ Student Oyster Photocard under the terms and conditions of the scheme. Under these circumstances we are required to report this to TfL and your card will be stopped.

If you have interrupted your studies, then you will need to reapply for a new 18+ Student Oyster Photocard when you have re-enrolled as a full-time student.

Medical students intercalating externally will be considered as interrupted at King's, and will need to apply for a new 18+ Student Oyster photocard with the institution where they are completing their intercalated degree, once their card at King's is stopped.

If you extend your period of study you will need to apply for a new 18+ Student Oyster photocard to cover this additional study time. 

You can find out further information on the TfL website. 

Disclaimer:

King's has tried to give students an early opportunity to begin their research of student funding. Although every effort has been made to ensure that information provided is both helpful to prospective candidates and accurate at the time of its publication, it is possible that some information may be outdated or superseded before the start of the 2022/23 academic year.

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Oyster cards, contactless cards and rail discounts

Here you can find information about getting an Oyster card and using your bank card on public transport as well as information about what discounts you may be eligible for.

Contactless payment

Oyster cards, 18+ student oyster photocards.

• 16+ Zip Oyster cards

16-25 and 26-30 railcards

Young persons coach card.

Please note that this information is correct to the best of our knowledge but may be subject to change.

If your bank card issued on Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or American Express shows the contactless payment symbol, you can use it to pay-as-you-go on all Transport for London (TfL) services. 

Using a mobile payment, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, is the same as using a contactless card. You can make mobile payments with devices such as phones, watches, key fobs, stickers or wristbands.

For more information on using contactless payment methods on London transport, please visit the Transport for London (TfL) website.   

Please do not apply for the 18+ oystercard until you are living in London during term time and have updated your Portico record to show this. You will not be eligible for the card if you do not live in London during term time.

What is an Oyster card?

Many people living in London use Oyster cards to pay for public transport. An Oyster card is a plastic smartcard which can hold pay-as-you-go credit (money), Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes. You can load money on to your Oyster card (known as ‘topping up’) at any tube or London Overground station, as well as in any shop where you see the blue Oyster card sign. You can use an Oyster card to travel on bus, tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, Emirates Air Line, River Bus services and most National Rail services in London.

Most people living in London will have an Oyster card, as Oyster fares are substantially cheaper than buying paper tickets for single journeys. 

You can find out the cost of single journeys using Travel for London’s Single Fare Finder tool.

Where can I get an Oyster card?

You can get an Oyster card from any Tube, London Overground and TfL Rail stations, as well as some DLR and National Rail stations.

How much does it cost?

You have to pay a £7 fee for an Oyster card, and if you bought yours on or after 4 September 2022, it is non-refundable. 

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What is an 18+ Oyster card?

An 18+ Student Oyster photocard works in the same way as a standard Oyster card, but looks slightly different as it includes a photo of you. It also entitles you to some extra discounts.

What discounts can I get with an 18+ Oyster card?

If you have an 18+ Student Oyster photocard, you can get 30% off the price of adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Pass season tickets.

A Travelcard season ticket gives you unlimited travel for a week, a month or a year. The cost of a Travelcard will vary depending on the length of time it is valid for and which zones you are travelling between. For example, if you are travelling only in zone 1 or between zones 1 and 2, a weekly Travelcard will cost £33. Travelling in zones 1-3 will cost £38.70. You can find a full list of rates on the TfL website .

Am I eligible?

If you're 18 or over, live at a London address during term time and in full-time education, or on a mandatory work placement in London, you may be eligible for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard.

Please find the eligibility criteria outlined on the TFL web page.

You must have fully enrolled at UCL before you will be eligible . If you apply before you have fully enrolled, you risk your application being rejected and losing your application fee. If you are a part-time student, your application will be rejected unless you meet the TfL criteria, which can be found on the TfL website. You must use your correct programme end date from Portico when you apply otherwise your application will be rejected.

How do I apply?

In order to apply online for your photocard you will need to provide:

• an active email address
• your UCL student number (SN on the front of your UCL ID card )
• London borough  address
• Digital photo  which must be a .jpg, .bmp or .gif file and less than 6MB
• Your correct programme of study end date from Portico

You will be required to pay an administration fee of £20 using a credit or debit card. Due to the £20 fee of registering for an 18+ Oyster card, it is worth considering whether or not it will be worth the money for you. Please make sure to select the 'University Course' option and not the 'Work Placement' option, as you may lose the administration fee if you choose the incorrect option. 

If you will only be making a few journeys on public transport, you may not need to use a Travelcard or Bus & Tram Pass season ticket and therefore would not need an 18+ photocard. You may be better off using pay as you go at the adult rate and not paying the £20 fee. For example, to hit a weekly Travelcard in zones 1-2, you would need to make at least fourteen Tube journeys (which would cost £2.40 each within zones 1-2) or 22 bus journeys (which always cost £1.50, no matter how far you travel) to make it worth buying a £33 weekly Travelcard, and thus benefit from the discount.

You can use TfL’s Single Fare Finder to work out how much single tube journeys would cost you for different zones, and whether or not you are likely to make enough journeys for it to be worth buying a weekly, monthly or yearly Travelcard. If you are buying multiple Travelcards, it may be worth paying the £20 fee to register for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard to benefit from the 30% discount.

Please note:  You must enter your institution name correctly in order for the application to be successful - if the form does not automatically select 'UCL' when you type it in, please click the link to view a list of all eligible institutions and pick 'UCL' from the list. If you extend your period of study, you will need to apply for a new Oyster photocard to cover the additional time. UCL is not responsible for any inaccuracies in your Oyster photocard end date. If your status changes and you are no longer eligible for the 18+ Oyster photocard (because you leave UCL, interrupt your studies or change to part-time status) we are required to report this to TfL.

You should be aware that once your Oyster has a discount attached to it, you can no longer share it with or lend it to other people as it is only valid with the associated discount card.

Apply for an 18+ Student Oyster Card

Checking your application status

Information on how to check your application status can be found on the TfL's 18+ Student Oyster photocard web page

If you have a query about the status of your application for the 18+ Oyster card, you may log an enquiry via askUCL. Please quote your application reference number.

16+ Zip Oyster Card

UCL can sign and stamp a 16+ Oyster card application for eligible students.

To be eligible for free bus and tram travel, the applicant must be aged 16 or 17 on 31st August and be living in a London borough. If the applicant is 18, UCL does not sign the form as a Higher Education Institute (level 6).

Full details of how to apply for the 16+ Oyster card can be on the Transport for London website .

What are railcards?

The 16-25 and 26-30 railcards are plastic cards or downloadable as an app that gives you 1/3 off rail fairs. Many home students consider buying a 16-25 or 26-30 railcard if they are intending to travel by train fairly often, for example, to visit family.

For more information visit the 16-25 railcard web page.

For more information, visit the 26-30 railcard website.

Where can I buy one, and how much do they cost?

You should only buy the 16-25 or 26-30 railcards from the official railcard website . They cost £30 for one year.

Linking your railcard and your Oyster card

You can also add the discount to your standard Oyster card or your 18+ Student Oyster photocard to get a 34% discount on single off-peak pay-as-you-go fares on London Underground and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) services.

Peak times are from 06:30 to 9:29 and from 16:00 to 18:59 Monday to Friday. During peak travel times, some journeys cost slightly more. Your railcard will not get you a discount during these times.

For example: a single Tube journey within zone 1 or between zones 1 and 2 outside the hours of 06:30 to 9:29 and from 16:00 to 18:59 or on a weekend would cost £2.40. With a railcard linked to your Oyster card, the same journey would cost £1.59. Journeys made within those hours (during peak times) would cost £2.90, regardless of whether or not your Oyster and railcard are linked.

You can use TfL's Single Fare Finder to work out how much single Tube journeys would cost without being linked to a railcard.

Due to the £30 fee when you buy a railcard, it is worth considering whether or not you would use the discounts it gives you often enough for it to be worth the money.

How do I link my railcard and my Oyster card?

To link your Oyster card and railcard, you need to take your Oyster card and your railcard to an Underground station, Overground ticket office or some National Rail ticket offices and ask the clerk to add your discount entitlement to your Oyster card. It will be valid until the expiry of the railcard.

Young person coach cards are available for all people aged 16 - 26 or full-time students over the age of 26. They give you a third (33.3%) off all Standard and Fully Flexible coach fares with the National Express. 

Find out more information on the National Express website .

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London Public Transport

We realise that being a foreign student in a big city like London can be a bit overwhelming, especially when trying to take public transportation. Do not worry! We have broken everything down for you so that you can get to where you want to go without any troubles and for the cheapest price.

You can buy an Oyster or travel card here:

Planning Your Journey

• Before taking the Tube, always check to see when the first and last trains are.
• The first thing you need to know is what tube station you are leaving from and at which station you will need to arrive at.
• Once you know where you are leaving from, check to see where your station is on the underground line. Locate your destination and the underground line that it is on.
• Remember to check the train's destination, which can usually be found on the front of the train or on the display boards, to make sure that you are getting a train going in the right direction – and that if you need to change lines, you keep going the right way!
• Note: Sometimes trains do not travel all the way to the terminal station and will terminate a few stations before. There will usually be a train that goes to the end of the line shortly afterwards, but it means that you may have to get out and wait at the platform for a while.

Oyster Cards

An Oyster Card is a pay as you go travel pass that you can use for the underground, bus, tram, DLR, London over-ground trains and some National Rail train services.

There are two advantages to having an Oyster Card. Firstly, they are so convenient. When you've just arrived back in London from your summer holiday, the last thing you want is to be messing around buying a Travelcard every day. The other major benefit is that Oyster Cards make travelling much cheaper. It will always calculate the cheapest price for your journey, and paying for a journey with an Oyster Card costs a lot less than buying a paper ticket.

There are two types of Oyster Card: 

Standard Oyster Card

You can pick one of these up from selected high street shops or at most train stations in London, or get it delivered within the UK. They are free but have a refundable £5 deposit. They can have season tickets placed on them, be pay as you go, or auto top-up.

Visitor Oyster Card

If you want to get your Oyster delivered abroad before you arrive in London then this is for you. They have a £3 non-refundable deposit and you can get them already topped up when they arrive.

Order One Now 

Make sure you touch your Oyster Card to the yellow sensor at the start and the end of your journey. If you forget to touch in or touch out, you will be charged the maximum daily fee.

If you travel during peak times, Monday to Friday (4:30–9:30 in the morning) you will be charged more for your journey.

Student Oyster Cards

Student Photo Oyster Cards are available to students over the age of 18 and enrolled at a participating university or institution. Although you can still use the Student Oyster Card for pay-as-you go travel, no additional discounts are available for single journeys, daily travel or 3 day travel. The Student Oyster Card allows you to spend less money on travel in and around London when you purchase Travelcards valid for 7 days, one month or longer periods of time (up to one year). You will end up saving 30% off the adult fare for that Travelcard. Eligible students must apply for a student oyster card online or by post through their university or institution. Contact your Student Union or the National Union of Students for more information.

If you are under the age of 19 and in full time Education in the UK, you may qualify for the 16+ Student Oyster Card, which will entitle you to free transport on London buses and trams and allow you to purchase Travelcards at a child's rate.

You can purchase a Travelcard valid for transport on the underground, London over-ground trains, DLR, tram, schedules riverboat services and some National Rail services for anytime travel or off-peak travel (travel starting after 9:30 in the morning). You can also purchase a travel pass only valid for the bus and tram network in London. This pass will not allow you to travel on the tube or on any trains.

National Rail Cards allow you to have unlimited travel on National Rail services between the zones specified on your card for the duration of your card. Students holding the National Rail 16-25 cards can purchase travel cards at the off-peak rate, which is a great deal and can save you 50% off your travel costs.

Before taking the bus, always check to see what the times for the first and last buses are. It is also a good idea to check if there are any delays or closed routes by using the Journey Planner.

For bus route map and timetable information, check TFL. You can also use the Journey Planner to find out which bus you will need to take in order to reach your destination.

When you arrive at the bus stop, make sure the bus you need to take, stops at that station (bus numbers are listed on white plaques at the stop). If it does not, look to see if there is any other bus stop nearby or ask a local shop owner for help.

When you arrive at the correct bus stop, check the route map to make sure your bus is heading in the correct direction. If you are unsure, check the front of the bus to see if its last stop is in the direction you wish to travel.

If you find that the bus is heading in the opposite direction to the one in which you want to travel, you will probably need to cross the street to take the bus heading in the right direction.

If you have an Oyster Card, make sure to touch in, but you will not have to touch out. Sometimes, you will be allowed to buy a bus ticket on the bus, although not usually in Central London. Check around the bus stop to see if there is a machine to purchase tickets before your bus arrives.

Night Buses

Night Buses are run on a limited service, late at night. The Night Bus service usually starts after midnight. The routes are much longer and the stops are less frequent. Students usually take the Night Bus to get home after a late night out because it is the only mode of public transport to run through to the early hours. To find out which Night Bus services your area, check at bus stops near you or use the Journey Planner. Night Buses have an "N" before the route number e.g. N11.

In London, you have two cab options: Registered Black Cabs and Mini-Cabs.

All airports have a Black Cab service. Riding in a Black Cab can be a great experience for a foreigner, as the cab driver will most likely tell you about picking up members of the Royal Family, celebrities and other interesting people. They are also quite knowledgeable about London and if you ask, they will probably tell you what you want to know.

However, if you are not careful, you can run up a hefty bill in a Black Cab. All the cars run on a meter that charges per portion of a mile and per minute stopped. If you hit some traffic, you will be broke in no time! Though they are convenient, they are not the best way to save money.

Mini-Cabs are the way to go if you want discounted taxi transportation. Unlike Black Cabs, you cannot hail Mini-Cabs on the street.

You have to call a Mini-Cab station and they will send you a taxi if you have not pre-booked. Mini-cabs charge for the entire journey, regardless of traffic. When you want to book a Mini-Cab, make sure you call the nearest company to you, as they will most likely be the cheapest.

There are also Mini-Cab companies run by women only for women, so if you are a female and you are wary of cab drivers, know that there is another option for you.

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What travelcards & discounts can I get on public transport?

Studying in London is a unique experience compared to other universities. Whilst the capital offers an unrivalled amount of things to see and do, it can at first be challenge. Although there are a few discount options available to help reduce costs, understanding which one is best and most suitable can in itself be a confusing process. Most students are aware of the 18+ Student Oyster Photocard, but there are also other, lesser known discount railcards. So, which one is the best? The simple answer is that it depends entirely on you - how frequently you use the transport network, and during which times.

Important to know:   If you’re travelling on public transport in London, check the  Transport for London (TfL) to see which services are running, plus y ou can sign up for email updates from TfL.

What is the 18+ Student Oyster card and how can I get one?

The 18+ Oyster entitles you to 30% off travelcards and Bus and Tram season tickets. It is available to full-time King’s students living in the Greater London area, and you apply online using the TfL website at a cost of £20. You’ll simply need your course dates, the student number on your ID card, as well as a photo and your email. Applying a discounted travelcard to an Oyster gives peace of mind that you won’t spend any more than the amount you’ve already paid. However, bear in mind there is no discount to pay-as-you-go fares with an 18+ Oyster. You could be overpaying for a travelcard if you aren’t using the tube or buses frequently, so it is worth considering the other option before handing over £20 to TfL. We recommend reading the detail of what the benefits are, as well as the eligibility criteria for this travel card at TfL 18+ Student Oyster photocard . If you are eligible and wish to apply, please refer to our specific guidance when applying as a King’s student in the guidance below. Important to know: If you take a break from your studies, you won’t be eligible for the 18+ Oyster card for the duration of your interruption.

How do I apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard?

Full-time students can apply for a Transport for London (TfL) 18+ Student Oyster photocard, which provides a 30% discount on travel in London. You can  apply online  via the dedicated TfL site and will need a digital photograph and a credit/debit card. You can check your eligibility at  TfL 18+ Student Oyster which also includes important information about how and when applications will be validated. Steps when making your application

When you make your application, please ensure that you select King’s College London as the institution: ‘King's College London, James Clerk Maxwell Building, 57 Waterloo Road.’ (institution code 0403).

If selecting the institution from a list, make sure to select King's College London, and not the NHS Foundation Trust or “King's London.”

If you don’t apply to the correct 'King's College London' your application will be rejected by another institution and you may have to make a new application and incur the £20 administration fee again.

When entering your Course Details (Step 3) you will be asked to provide your Student enrolment (ID) Number. This is the 7 or 8 digit number on your student card. Please do not enter the ID that begins with a “K” as this may cause delays in approving your application.

Important to know:

Most part-time students and students on a break/interruption of study are not eligible for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard. Please refer to the more detailed guidance at  TfL 18+ Student Oyster and to our guidance on interruptions for undergraduate students or postgraduate taught students .

The King's Student Funding Office confirms whether applicants are registered as full-time for TfL.

Applications  cannot be approved until the first day of term , so the Student Funding Office will begin approving application from then onwards.

How long will it take for my Oyster application to be approved? The Student Funding Office approves all Oyster card applications directly with TfL. It takes a couple of weeks for this to come through at the start of term, but these are approved as soon as possible. 

What is the 16+ Student Oyster card and can I get one?

If you are still 17 on the 31 August ahead of starting your degree course (usually September), you should be able apply for this discount without university approval, and it will remain valid until your 18 th birthday.

Foundation courses can count as level 3; this means that if you are 18 and studying on the King’s International Foundation course, you can apply for this discount but because of your age, you’ll need to get approval from King’s for this.

To apply (for students on Foundation courses):

Submit a Form Request and upload your application form.

We will check your record and ensure you meet the relevant criteria, and then sign and stamp the form for you, returning it to you via email.

If you're eligible, we will then let you know - at which point please book an appointment to come a collect your form in person.

Important to know: When seeking to apply for this discount travelcard, please make sure you read all the information at 16+ Zip Oyster photocard and please refer to the TfL Eligibility criteria before applying . If your application is rejected because you are ineligible, you run the risk of losing your application fee. If you are at all unsure if you are eligible, please seek advice from TfL .

What is the National Rail 16-25 Railcard and can I get one?

Important to know: When it comes to the railcard, there is no discount to peak fares Monday-Friday 06:30-09:30 and 16:00-19:00 or to bus fares. How can I apply?

If you’re aged between 16-25 years , you can do it all online yourself, opting for a digital or plastic railcard at 16-25 Railcard .

If you’re over 25 , you are best to apply for the  26-30 Railcard .

If you’re over 30 and a full-time student , you’ll need to start off your application online and then you’ll be directed to a Mature Student Railcard application form, which we’ll need to sign and stamp for you. Please:

If you would like to collect this in paper form in person, please ensure you have still logged a  Form Request  and uploaded your application form first, and let us know through your enquiry if you want to collect the completed form in person.

• Students studying on a distance learning course don’t qualify for a railcard. Please visit the  16-25 railcard eligibility  for more information.

I’m a part-time student; am I eligible for this railcard?

We will check your record and ensure you meet the relevant criteria by liaising directly with your department for confirmation, and then sign and stamp the form for you, returning it to you via email.

This railcard is not tied to your student status but rather your age; if you’re under 25, you can apply whether you’re a student or not.

Always carry your 16-25 Railcard when buying tickets and travelling.

If you’re unsure if you’re eligible for this railcard, visit 16-25: Are you eligible?

What is the National Rail 26-30 Railcard and can I get one?

A valid passport or UK Driving Licence to verify your identity.

A digital passport-style photo saved to your computer, tablet or mobile phone.

A debit or credit card.

The  Railcard app .

Check when and with which ticket(s) you are permitted to use your 26-30 railcard by visiting  Where and when can I use my Railcard?

Always carry your 26-30 Railcard when buying tickets and travelling.

I’m a mature or part-time student; am I eligible for this railcard?

Both the 26-30 and the 16-25 railcards are dependent on your age, so you don’t have to be a student to apply. Anyone under 31 is covered by either one of the railcards without needing any further approval – you can apply directly through the website. The main difference comes if you are studying and over 30; for this you’re best to refer to details for the 16-25 railcard.

Comparing the 18+ Student Oyster card and 16-25 Railcard: which student travel card is right for me?

If you are not using public transport frequently but instead walking or cycling to university and only using the tube occasionally, the 18+ Oyster may not be worthwhile. To check fares for travel across the different zones using the various payment methods, refer to TfL 18+ Student fares . Unless you travel very regularly on pay-as-you-go fares, a 16-25 Railcard may be more appropriate to save money on off-peak fares, when using the tube or city trains to see friends or explore London for leisure. Even if you use the tube frequently on one day, fares automatically cap at the zone rate, ensuring you can’t spend any more than this in one day. Caps can increase year on year, so if you think you might stick to standard pay-as-you-go, we recommend checking TfL’s Pay as you go caps . The 16-25 railcard offers an additional ⅓ off daily caps when using the tube off-peak bringing the cap down further. On the other hand, if you are regularly using transport to travel into university and at peak times, the discounted travelcard allows for unlimited journeys on a weekly or monthly basis, and so may make the 18+ Oyster better value. If you do opt for the 18+ Oyster, you can still apply a 16-25 railcard discount allowing for the best of both worlds. You can opt for a discounted travelcard in the weeks you use public transport frequently whilst allowing for a pay-as-you-go discount when not using transport frequently outside of term time. If you are living in Zone 2, you may opt for a Zone 1-2 weekly travelcard to get to university, but use the 16-25 Railcard when you make journeys to Zone 3 and beyond to explore areas outside of Central London. A combination of the two allows for maximum flexibility. In the end, it depends entirely on your personal use. It’s a good idea to check how much you are using public transport to see if the total regularly exceeds or is below the cost of a travelcard for your zone. To work out what you’re spending your money on to help you budget better, refer to our guide on managing your money .

Additional support for students with disabilities  

I’m a disabled student living in London, can I apply for a freedom pass?

If you live in a London borough and meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to apply for a Disabled Persons Freedom Pass, which can provide free access to public transport across the Transport for London network. For further guidance on how to submit an application, visit the London Councils webpage ​​​​​​.

Step 1: Make sure you're using either an Oyster or Contactless Card

Paper ticket fares are incredibly expensive in London, and nowadays often unnecessary when so many credit and debit cards have the contactless feature.

You will know if your debit card is contactless depending on whether it has the contactless symbol. Though contactless removes the need to top-up, discounts cannot be applied and it can be more difficult to keep track of spending.

Adult Oyster cards are available at ticket machines at any Tube station for a £5. Even if you opt to apply for an 18+ Oyster, it is worth paying this while you wait for your 18+ Oyster, because it can sometimes take a couple of weeks for the university to approve this for you.

Step 2: How much are you using transport and when?

To keep track of usage, make sure to register your Oyster Card online following the instructions on the TfL website. Once you have done this, you can view journey history and see daily expenditure.

You may wish to set up a Contactless and Oyster account which also has a matching app , which allows you to check your journey history, easily top-up credit and you’ll get notifications when your credit runs low.

Keeping track of your journeys and your spending means you can total the weekly and estimate the monthly and annual costs, and compare this with the cost of discounted travelcards for each zone. For details on fares across a range of transport types in the capital visit TfL Find fares .

Step 3: Apply for the discount cards

If you find you are exceeding the cost of a travelcard via pay-as-you-go fares it is likely that an 18+ Oyster is a sound investment and can be applied for online. Please refer to our guidance in How do I apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard?

If you are only occasionally using public transport and therefore coming in below the cost of a travelcard, or simply want both discounts and the option of discounts on trains throughout the UK, you can apply for the 16-25 Railcard online .

Buses are almost always cheaper than the tube and the Hopper Fare gives you unlimited journeys, made within 1 hour of touching in.

Remember to tap in and tap out at all stations even if there are no barriers. Forgetting to tap both in and out on the tube will lead to a penalty fare .

King’s Student Funding Office confirm student attendance to TfL for applications to be approved. September and October are very busy periods as many students apply for the 18+ Oyster card, so bear in mind you may need to wait; please allow at least 3 weeks for processing.

How can I travel around London on a budget?

If you’d like to minimise your travel on public transport and want an alternative cheap mode of transport, you could try  Santander Cycles . This is an easy bike hire system with no need to book in advance. You can simply hire a cycle by going to your nearest docking station terminal with a debit or credit card. Be sure to take your card with you; while contactless cards are accepted, but contactless devices including phones and smartwatches, are not .

You can also download the free Santander Cycles app  and pay for the hire using the app instead. For up to 30 minutes, you can ride an unlimited journey for just £2. Every additional 30 minutes will be charged at £2. Remember to return your cycle within 24 hours to your nearest docking station terminal. Otherwise, you may be charged.

The Money Mentors have also put together some tips in their blog  Getting around London: practical tips .

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How to apply for a student oyster card

Table of Contents

For students studying in London, you’ll no doubt have heard of the Student Oyster Card. It’s a great way to save money while travelling around London, which we all know can get quite expensive normally. Whether you’re dashing to lectures or exploring the city or on a night out, the Student Oyster Card makes every journey more affordable. But how do you go about getting one and who is eligible? Our guide tells you exactly how to apply for student oyster card and the benefits you’ll get from having one. So, get ready to embrace what London has to offer. With your Student Oyster Card in hand, the city’s your oyster (pun intended).

What is a Student Oyster Card?

The Student Oyster Card is just like a travel card, but it’s a budget-friendly option designed for students in London. It offers discounted fares across London’s extensive transport network, including buses, tubes, trams, and more. This card aims to ease the financial burden of travel, allowing students to save up to 30% on adult-rate travelcards and bus & tram passes. It’s a practical and handy way for students who regularly commute to university, part-time jobs, or just want to explore the city to get around without paying a fortune.

What’s the difference between a ‘Student’ oyster card and regular oyster card?

Comparing the Student Oyster Card with its regular counterpart is like comparing a standard gym membership with a premium one. Both give you access to the same facilities (or in this case, the same transport network), but the premium (Student Oyster Card) offers additional perks at a fraction of the cost. The regular Oyster Card simplifies travel with pay-as-you-go capabilities and daily capping, but the Student Oyster Card takes it further by slashing the costs significantly. It’s tailored for the student lifestyle, offering the same convenience with the added benefit of making every penny count. For students juggling academics and budgeting, this card is a game-changer. Read more about whether the Student Oyster Card is worth it to help you decide, which also discussed alternatives.

Eligibility criteria: Who can apply for one?

The Student Oyster Card is a boon for students over 18 living and studying in London. If you’re enrolled in a full-time or part-time educational program in the city, you’re in luck. This card is designed to make your student life easier and more affordable, especially when it comes to navigating the extensive transport network of London. Whether you’re attending lectures, working part-time, or just exploring the city, the Student Oyster Card is your ticket to cheaper and more convenient travel.

To be eligible, you must be at least 18 years old. But age is just a number; what’s crucial is your enrolment in an educational institution that’s part of the Oyster scheme. This includes a wide range of universities and colleges across London. The card is tailored for students, ensuring that whether you’re a freshman or a postgraduate researcher, you can benefit from discounted travel as you pursue your academic goals.

What do you need to apply?

When you’re gearing up to get your Student Oyster Card, the first thing you’ll need is your ID. Think of it as the key that unlocks all those travel discounts. A valid passport or your UK driving license should do the trick. They’re just there to prove that you are, indeed, you.

Next up is proving you’re a student. This is where your student ID card or an enrolment letter from your uni or college comes into play. These aren’t just pieces of paper or plastic; they’re your golden tickets to cheaper travel around London. They’re pretty much saying, “Yep, I’m a student, and I’m ready to grab those travel discounts!”

Sometimes, you might need to show a bit more, like a recent utility bill or a bank statement. This isn’t to make life difficult, but just to make sure everything’s up to date. It’s all about making your application as smooth as possible.

The step-by-step application process for a Student Oyster Card

Applying online

Applying for a Student Oyster Card is a breeze. Start by visiting the Transport for London (TfL) website . Here, you’ll find a dedicated section for the 18+ Student Oyster photocard. The online form is straightforward, guiding you through each step. You’ll need to provide:

• your personal details
• student status
• details of your educational institution.

Ensure you have all the necessary information at hand to make the process smooth and quick.

Submitting your documents

During the application, you’ll be asked to upload certain documents. These typically include a digital photo of yourself (which must meet specific requirements), proof of your student status (like your student ID or enrolment letter), and possibly additional identification documents. It’s crucial that these documents are clear and legible to avoid any delays in your application.

Payment and fees

There is a small application fee for the Student Oyster Card. This fee is paid online during the application process. Have your debit or credit card ready for this. Once you’ve paid the fee, your application is complete. The card is typically valid for up to three years of your course, aligning with the duration of most academic programs.

Using Your Student Oyster Card

How do I top it up?

Once you receive your card, topping it up is simple. You can do this at any Oyster Ticket Stop, which you’ll find in many local shops across London, at tube stations, or online through the Transport for London (TfL) website. When topping up online, you can add credit to your card from the comfort of your home or on the go, making it a convenient option for busy students. It’s essential to keep your card topped up to ensure uninterrupted travel across the city.

Where can I use it?

Your Student Oyster Card is incredibly versatile. It’s valid on all TfL services, which includes buses, tubes, trams, the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), London Overground, and some National Rail services. This wide range of transport options means you can travel almost anywhere within London using your card, making it an indispensable tool for both your studies and leisure activities.

How can I renew my Student Oyster Card?

Renewing your Student Oyster Card is an important step to ensure uninterrupted access to discounted travel across London’s transport network. The card is valid for the entire duration of your course, but it does require an annual renewal. This process is designed to verify your continued eligibility for the scheme and to maintain the card’s active status. To renew your card, the process is straightforward and user-friendly. You simply need to log in to your Transport for London (TfL) account. Once logged in, you’ll find clear instructions and steps to guide you through the renewal process. Following these steps is crucial to ensure that your card remains active, allowing you to continue enjoying the benefits of discounted travel. This annual check-in with TfL is a small but essential task for maintaining your travel benefits as a student in London.

Life can be full of changes, especially during your student years. You might find yourself moving to a new residence or even changing your course. It’s important to remember that these changes need to be reflected in your Student Oyster Card details. Updating your information is not just a bureaucratic step; it’s essential for ensuring seamless service and avoiding any potential issues with your card’s validity. The TfL website provides an easy platform for updating your personal details. Whether it’s a change of address or a change in your educational circumstances, keeping your information up to date on the TfL website is vital. This ensures that your Student Oyster Card accurately reflects your current situation, thereby avoiding any complications or disruptions in using the card. Regularly updating your details helps in maintaining a smooth and hassle-free travel experience as you navigate through your academic journey in London.

What to do if I lose my Student Oyster Card or it gets stolen or doesn’t work?

If your card is lost or stolen, don’t worry. Report it immediately on the TfL website. TfL will typically issue a replacement, ensuring you’re not left stranded without a way to travel.

If your card isn’t working, the first step is to speak with a staff member at any tube station. They’re knowledgeable and can often resolve minor issues on the spot. For more complex issues, TfL’s customer service team is available to assist. You can contact them via phone or email for help with any problems you encounter with your card.

Absolutely! As long as you meet the eligibility criteria, you're good to go.

Typically, it takes about a week, but it can vary. Plan ahead to ensure you're not left without a card when you need it

You should inform TfL as your card will no longer be valid, and you might need to return it.

Last Updated on March 5, 2024

Published on February 22, 2024

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Valid for anyone aged 16-25 years old  and mature students in full time study*

How to get 1/3 off rail fares.

*If you’re a mature student in full time study, you’ll need to submit a proof of age or study when buying your 16-25 Railcard. Find out more here .

About 16-25 Railcard

If you live in london, you can even get 1/3 off tube fares on oyster.

Once you’ve bought your Railcard, go to a London Underground station with your 16-25 Railcard and ask a member of staff to add your discount to your Oyster card.

Please note:

1. The Railcard is available to residents of Great Britain aged between 16 and 25 years of age and mature students in full-time study. You will be required to provide details of your valid passport of UK driving licence as proof of age and mature students need to prove eligibility.

2. Railcard to be carried on all journeys and used when purchasing discounted tickets.

3. A minimum fare applies for all journeys between 4.30am-10am Monday to Friday. If you travel regularly before 10am then a weekly or monthly season ticket may be more appropriate (Railcard discount will not apply). However there is no minimum fare in July or August, on Public Holidays, and at weekends.

4. A full set of 16-25 Railcard Terms & Conditions is available from any staffed station ticket office or at www.16-25railcard.co.uk .

5. The Railcard and train travel are subject to the National Rail Conditions of Carriage.

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A Guide To Student Travel Discounts In The UK

By Rebecca Maher on August 12th, 2022

Benefits of Student Travel Discounts in the UK

Who doesn’t love a discount card! Especially when you are a student, and the cost of living is on the rise! Some of the best student travel discounts in the UK include travelling via train, tube, and bus. We want to help you save money so that you can enjoy student living with Downing Students as much as possible. So, we have put together our top tips to save money when travelling around the UK with student travel discounts.

Student Discount on Trains

You will be happy to hear that all cities home to Downing Student’s accommodation are situated in the best central locations with access to public transport links close by.

Including: London , Liverpool , Leeds , Coventry , Cambridge , Newcastle , Glasgow , Edinburgh and Exeter .

16-25 Railcard

If you’re between 16-25, good news! You can save money by applying for a railcard, saving 30% off train travel. This student travel card is ideal for students regularly travelling to and from university campuses, or those UK students that are looking to travel home at weekends.

How To Apply For A 16-25 Railcard

Just £30 a year, 16-25 railcards can be purchased either online or at staffed ticket stations. You can also buy your student travel card online, providing you download the Railcard app to access your 16-25 railcard. If you know you will be doing a lot of traveling over the next three years, a 3-year 16-25 railcard costs just £70.  All you need to do is purchase your railcard by having a valid debit card, valid UK driving license or international passport and a digital passport style photo to upload for your discount card.

16-17 Saver Railcard

Heading to college and not sure what transport methods to look at? You can save yourself 50% off all train travel by applying for a railcard. This includes season tickets, standard, off-peak and anytime travel. Ideal for travelling to campus, fun days out and even traveling home too.

How To Apply For A 16-17 Saver Railcard

To get your hands on a 16-17 travel card, you need to provide evidence of age, (national ID, passport, UK Driver’s License), have a good photo for ID purposes and finally a debit or credit card to secure your student travel card. TIP – if you move to university and you’re not quite 18, make sure you purchase one of these. It could be the month before your 18 th birthday and it will see you through for 12 months with a 50% saving.

London Underground Student Discount

Staying with us at Vega London , The Lyra or Atlas for the 22/23 term? Make student living that much easier and benefit from student travel discounts UK. Or maybe you know friends who will be living in London and you plan to visit them, this saving can help you then.

18+ Student Oyster Card

Get yourself an oyster card for your student travel in and around London. You will save 30% with this student deal, providing you live in a London Borough during term time. An oyster card is super beneficial allowing you to buy discounted travelcards, bus and tram season tickets.

How To Apply For A 18+ Student Oyster Card

To get your 18+ oyster card, apply online by providing an email address, student enrolment ID, a London borough address and a digital photo.

16+ Zip Oyster Photocard

Fresh out of school or college? This one is for you! Get 50% off adult pay as you go fares on bus, Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line (excluding between West Drayton and Reading) and most National Rail services in London.

How To Apply For A 16+ Zip Oyster Photocard

A parent or guardian is required to apply for an oyster card for students under the age of 18 . If you are 18 or over, you will need to apply online and create a photocard in keeping with the 16+ zip oyster terms and conditions.

Coach Student Discount

Travelling by coach is considered one of the most low-cost ways of travelling. Sure, on some occasions it may take a little longer to travel, but using a young persons’ coach card will definitely help you save money – meaning you can focus more on studying and ultimately, enjoying student life!

Young Persons’ Coach card

For just £12.50 for the year or £30 for three years, you will save a third of the price on coach travel on standard and fully flexible fares. Even better, you will save money travelling to events and festivals too – winner!

How To Apply For A Young Persons Coach card

A young persons’ coach card can be purchased using the online registration form, with the travel card then delivered to your home address within 7 days. Alternatively, you can call National Express who can arrive delivery of your student travel card for you.

With student living throughout the UK, Downing Students accommodation is located within the best city central locations to ensure our students have easy access to nearby transport links for student travel. Take Vega London for example, a quick 5-minute walk away from Vauxhall Underground.

Looking to study at University of Warwick, Coventry? You are in luck! When you book your next home away from home at City Village   student living you get a FREE, yes FREE bus pass! Hurry, this offer won’t be around for much longer!

Like to learn more? We would love to hear from you!

Join in the Downing Students fun right here

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• Student records and data
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• For current students

Student Travel Discounts

Oyster cards or contactless payment cards are the cheapest way to pay for single fare journeys on the underground, buses, DLR and some trains in London. 

Pay as you go

If you don't travel frequently, you may find pay as you go is the cheapest option. If you visit a tube ticket office, you can also link a 16-25 Young Persons Railcard  to your Oyster card to save money on off-peak travel.

16+ Zip Card 

Students aged 16 and 17 can apply for a 16+ Zip card and request to have the form stamped at the Student Hub. Students aged 18 and over need to apply for a 18+ Student Oyster card

18+ Student Oyster Card

With an 18+ Student Oyster Card, you can save 30% off adult-rate Travelcards & Bus/Tram season tickets.

Eligibility

To get an 18+ Student Oyster Card you must be:

• A student aged 18 or over
• A registered, full time student for a minimum of 14 weeks course duration
• Living at a London address during term-time

 How to apply

Once you have enrolled, applications can be made online with  TFL

You will need:

• A colour digital photo to upload
• Your CID number from the College
• Your course start and end dates
• The full postal address of your London based term-time address
• A valid debit or credit card
• To use the end date on your student card

 You can find more information, including full terms and conditions on the  Transport for London website

Frequently Asked Questions

Are part-time students eligible for the 18+ student oyster card.

Part-time students are not eligible.

When will my card expire?

Your 18+ Student Oyster Card will expire on your course end date.

How long will it take to get my card?

After the College has confirmed your student registration to TFL, you should receive your card within two to three weeks. 

You can track the status of your application by signing into your 18+ web account with TFL.

What information does the College release about me to TFL?

Once you have made an application for the 18+ Student Oyster Card, the College is required to confirm that you are a registered student, and the expected end of your course.  

If you make an application for an 18+ Student Oyster Card, you are agreeing to the College releasing this information to Transport for London and its agents.

Am I eligible for a 16+ Zip Oyster card?

Only students aged 16 and 17 can apply for the 16+ Zip Oyster card. The application form can be stamped by staff at the Student Hub,

Students aged 18 and over can only apply for the 18+ Student Oyster Card. 

Where can I find out more information about the 18+ Student Oyster Card?

You can find out more information on the  TFL website

Money blog: PrettyLittleThing U-turns on controversial returns policy

The Money blog is your place for personal finance and consumer news. Scroll down to read about new research on how families with twins or triplets face at least a £20,000 financial hit, and about PrettyLittleThing U-turning on its controversial returns policy.

Wednesday 11 September 2024 05:54, UK

• 'I gave birth to triplets and it pushed me to the brink of bankruptcy'
• PrettyLittleThing U-turns on controversial returns policy
• State pension likely to rise by £460 in April

Essential reads

• How to get ridiculously cheap flights - by someone who does it professionally
• Student finance special: Best paying jobs after uni, cheapest cities for students, top discounts and freebies
• How your pension could be taxed

Tips and advice

• Data roaming charges compared by network
• Should I consider an annuity - whatever that is?
• Free school meals guide

Ask a question or make a comment

PrettyLittleThing will stop charging "royalty" customers to make returns, its founder has announced.

The online fashion giant made headlines in June for scrapping its free returns policy, with all customers having to pay £1.99 to send back items.

It also started closing accounts for having a high returns rate. 

Royalty holders, who pay a £9.99 subscription fee for unlimited free deliveries and returns, were angered by the move.

In a post on Instagram, the company's founder Umar Kamani announced his return to the business and apologised for any "negative experiences" in his absence. 

"Over the past few years, I've watched from the sidelines as the brand we built together has, at times, lost touch with make it so special - you, our loyal customers," he wrote. 

"This has driven me to step back in and take on the responsibility of steering PrettyLittleThing forward, putting your needs and desires at the forefront of every decision we make." 

He added: "As part of this renewed commitment, one of my first changes will be to reintroduce free returns for our royalty customers, a step I believe is vital to making your shopping experience more seamless and enjoyable."

He also hinted that there might be more changes to come, saying the retailer was moving into its "next exciting chapter". 

Fans were quick to react to the news, with some saying they were glad Mr Kamani had returned. 

"Thank you for coming back. PLT hasn't been the same without you," one person said on X. 

"Thank you for coming back. The company was in shambles," said another. 

Others asked him if their blocked accounts would be reinstated, or if they would get a refund for the returns they were charged for. 

Mr Kamani stepped down last April after 12 years as PLT's chief executive. 

Under his leadership, the brand collaborated with huge stars including Kylie Jenner, Naomi Campbell and Jennifer Lopez. 

In recent years, the company has seen its profits wane, with its revenue falling from £712.2m to £634.1m in February 2023. 

By Megan Harwood-Baynes , cost of living specialist

When Monique Bertrand found out she was carrying triplets at eight weeks pregnant, she had no idea the unexpected arrivals would push her family to the brink of bankruptcy.

New research has found families with twins or triplets face at least a £20,000 financial hit in the first year after birth, compared with those who have two babies in succession.

Having been told she could never carry children, Monique had been considering foster care when she unexpectedly fell pregnant - but a bigger surprise was in store when she found out she had naturally conceived triplets.

After a difficult pregnancy, at 31 weeks and surrounded by a team of 35 doctors, nurses and midwives, she gave birth to Macho and Lylah, weighing a tiny 2lb 8oz, and Trinity, 2lb 1oz.

Research, commissioned by the charity Twins Trust and carried out by Per Capita, found raising multiples is more difficult in the UK than in almost any other advanced OECD economy, due to the lack of additional support.

"Triplet mums just need extra hands," said Monique, 39, from Lewisham.

The triplets spent 50 days in the hospital (Monique herself was admitted for 34) and by the time they returned home, her partner had already used up his two weeks of paternity leave. With him working lengthy night shifts, she was left to care for three infants alone.

"I felt I could not do it. I felt I wanted to run away. There was no support in any way," she says.

"I wish the government realised there is a huge difference between having multiples and having singletons."

Families of twins and triplets experience a 15% decline in household income (around £12,500), with 72% having to buy a new car to accommodate their children. Twins and triplets are often born premature, requiring families to take more time off work to care for their children.

"People don't realise, I have to pay for everything three times," said Monique, who works as an assistant director of education. "A twenty-pound baby outfit, for me that costs sixty. We go through nappies like they are tap water, formula... the costs just mount up.

"There is no passing things down between children, you have to have everything at once. It almost bankrupted us."

She said she knew of some multiple mums who had to transition their children onto cow's milk early, simply because they could not afford the cost of formula.

Families she had previously supported would send Monique clothes, food, formula and baby items to help the family survive: "The doorbell would ring, and it would be Amazon delivering three high chairs."

'I had to work while my twins were in hospital'

When Frank Fallon and Frankie Wakefield's twins, Ezra and Theo, arrived a day before their wedding, it was just the latest surprise of an unexpected pregnancy.

The couple had gone through IVF but only implanted one embryo, to try to mitigate the risk of multiples - but their eight-week scan showed two healthy heartbeats. 

Born three months early, Frank had to continue working while the twins spent seven weeks in hospital, to avoid rinsing through his paternity leave: "I would go visit them at 6am before work and we had to rely on friends and family to drive Frankie to hospital to see them."

Now the twins are energetic two-year-olds, and the couple are finally having their much-delayed wedding on Saturday, but they are calling for more support for multiple families. 

"Everything just adds up," said Frank. "Extra nappies [the family orders approximately 240 every four to six weeks], high energy bills because they are having more baths.

"I think I am at Tesco every day because they now go through litres of milk."

He added: "Even children's classes that Frankie goes to so she can socialise, you have to pay double for the extra baby."

' Childcare would have cost £5k a month'

Almost 90% of the 1,800 families surveyed said current childcare provisions are inadequate.

As Monique prepared to return to work, she sat down and wrote her resignation letter, after realising the cost of childcare for her triplets would be more than £5,000 a month.

"It broke my heart because I have never not worked," she said.

On learning this, her family held a meeting, volunteering to look after the children on different days so she could return to work. Now the twins are 21 months old, she qualifies for 15 hours free childcare, but the bill still stands at an additional £3,500 a month, and she relies heavily on her family to help.

At one point, Frank considered putting his children in on different days, to try and lower the cost of their £4,000 a month childcare bill (the boys go two days a week). 

"We are lucky we have both been promoted, but in our old jobs we would never have been able to afford it," he said. 

The Twins Trust report is calling for maternity pay to be allocated per baby, rather than per pregnancy, as well as an expansion of the Sure Start Maternity Grant and additional mental health support for families of multiples.

Shauna Leven, chief executive of Twins Trust, said: "This report lays bare the grim reality facing families with multiples - the financial burden, mental health toll and lack of support.

"Raising multiples is harder in the UK than almost any other nation. We will continue to campaign tirelessly to tackle the issues highlighted here, so our families can access the support they desperately need and deserve.

"With one set of multiples born every hour across the UK, it's critical that our society steps up and provides adequate support, rather than sending our families to the back of the queue."

By  Megan Harwood-Baynes , cost of living specialist

When James* was followed by an Instagram account offering an investment opportunity he thought it would be a quick way to supplement his apprentice salary.

Two weeks later, all his bank accounts were closed, he had a fraud marker against his name and now he cannot even take out a new mobile phone contract.

He is one of thousands of "money mules" identified by Lloyds Bank - this is someone who transfers or moves illegally acquired money on behalf of someone else.

Scammers often use social media to find their victims, and many do not realise what they are doing is illegal. It is sometimes framed as a legitimate job or investment - some victims are drawn in by loved ones, who are also unaware they are acting as money mules.

The Lloyds bank mule-hunting team has uncovered more than 160,000 mule accounts and stopped more than £114m from getting into the hands of fraudsters since it was set up in 2018. There has been a 44% increase in money mules identified in the past year alone. 

James was told he could make large profits by buying Bitcoin, and after being contacted by an unfamiliar account he agreed to invest £200 through an app.

James was then told to invest a further amount, which would give him an access code for withdrawing profits from the account, which had grown to £3,900. But he was told the access code would be available once he invested a further £900.

James didn't have that sort of money, so asked for his initial investment back. His mentor said he could instead pay £200 for the access code and that the mentor himself would pay James £700 to cover the rest of the total needed for the access code - meaning James received £700 from his mentor which he in turn then transferred on.

James continued to follow instructions sent to him via Instagram, sending and receiving more funds over the next few days. When he asked to release the so-called profits from his "investment" he was again told he would need to transfer more money to do so.

At this point, James began to realise he may have fallen victim to a scam - but didn't know how serious the consequences would be.

Within two weeks of that first payment, he received a letter from his main banking provider (not Lloyds Bank), saying his account had been frozen while it reviewed his recent activity.

A few weeks later, he was told that his main account had been closed with immediate effect.

Then, Lloyds Bank also got in touch to say his account would be closed.

He had been flagged as a third-party fraud facilitator - or a "money mule".

But age is no limit

Young people, like James, are often short on cash, so it's no surprise to find they may be targeted by fraudsters. Nearly a quarter (24%) of money mule accounts belong to customers between 19 and 30, with over half (58%) belonging to those under 40.

But there has been an increase in older people falling prey - the latest Lloyds Bank data shows 19% of money mule accounts are held by customers over 40, a growth of an astonishing 73% over the last year.

Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds Bank, said it is vital to realise how easily people can be lured in.

"Criminals are very good at making their illegal activities look like a real job opportunity and at tricking people into unknowingly recruiting family members and friends into becoming money mules," she said.

"Fraudsters will keep the illusion of legitimacy up until the mule gets caught, then disappear, leaving the mule to deal with the fallout of unintentionally laundering money."

And the fallout can be severe - with up to 14 years in prison, being prevented from opening a bank account for six years, being listed on the national fraud database and being unable to take out a mortgage, loan or even a mobile phone contact.

"While the realisation that you've mistakenly helped a fraudster clean their dirty money would be devastating for anyone when it comes to mules, it won't save them from the consequences, which can be extremely serious," she said.

"Always remember - no legitimate company or person will ever ask you to use your bank account to receive and transfer their money. Do not do it under any circumstances, it’s not worth risking your own future by doing so."

*Name has been changed

A man has been charged with running a network of illegal crypto ATMs in the first-ever criminal prosecution of its kind. 

Crypto ATMs are standalone electronic kiosks that allow users to buy and sell cryptocurrency in exchange for cash. All sell Bitcoin, while some offer other cryptocurrencies but not all ATMs allow the sale of crypto, as some are limited to just purchases.

Olumide Osunkoya, who is 45 and resides in London, has been charged with running a network of crypto ATMs that processed £2.6 million in transactions over almost two years, without the required registration.

These are also the first charges brought against a person accused of operating crypto ATMs in the UK.

Mr Osunkoya will appear before Westminster Magistrates' Court on 30 September.

There are no legal crypto ATM operators in the UK.

Therese Chambers, from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), said: "Our message today is clear. If you're illegally operating a crypto ATM, we will stop you.

"If you’re using a crypto ATM, you are handing your money directly to criminals. Criminals can exploit crypto ATMs to launder money globally."

The FCA warns people that if you buy crypto, you should be prepared to lose all your money as the currency remains largely unregulated in the UK and is "high-risk".

JD Sports is set to cut nearly 200 jobs by closing its distribution centre in Derby.

Staff at the Derby Commercial Park were informed of their job losses on Friday, following a six-week consultation, the BBC has reported.  The company is now trying to find them alternative roles within the company. 

A spokesperson for the company said it was "working with those affected to ensure they are fully supported during this challenging period."

Legislation to strengthen a  public finances watchdog  is set to become law after clearing the House of Lords. 

It would mean any major tax or spending announcements would be subject to an independent assessment by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

The legislation, classified as a Money bill, will provide information but the government will not be forced to comply with what it advises.

Viral chicken chain Dave's Hot Chicken has reportedly eyed up London's Piccadilly for its first UK site.

Backed by rapper Drake, its spiced-to-order chicken has seven levels, with the highest (Reaper) requiring a signed waiver from guests.

The group has submitted planning proposals to display a series of illuminated signs at Vernon House, 40 Shaftesbury Avenue.

As hundreds of thousands of teenagers head to university for the first time this month, many will be facing financial independence for the first time. 

In our first ever Money blog spin-off, we put together some essential reads that will hopefully help stand them in good stead...

The iPhone 16 was announced last night to much fanfare across the tech world.

As well as coming in a range of new colours and having a fancy new camera button, it is also capable of running the company's new AI, Apple Intelligence.

But despite the fact it is all over the news, today is actually probably the worst day to buy an iPhone.

If you're looking for the latest tech, you are better off waiting for the release, as otherwise, you'll find yourself with a year-old processor in a matter of months. This is particularly true if you want to make the most of Apple Intelligence, which will only be available on the iPhone 16, 16 Pro and existing iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.

Buying a new iPhone right before the next model launches is not a wise move, even if you aren't looking to upgrade to the flagship phone. Waiting until the new phone hits the shelves will not only give you time to decide whether you want to upgrade, but when a new model comes out it usually means its predecessors bump down in price.

Lisa Barber, tech editor at Which?, said: "Apple's latest launch event hitting the headlines this week might mean consumers are immediately tempted to upgrade to a newer iPhone model. However, in terms of price, today is usually one of the worst days to do this. 

"To save money, we'd encourage consumers to wait until the iPhone 16 has actually been released later this month and then look out for the discounts which are likely to emerge on older models. 

"For example, we wouldn't be surprised to see the iPhone 14 drop to around £300 below its original price once the 16 range hits the market.  

"Another tip is to check the second-hand market, particularly as we could see a flood of iPhone 15s appearing when people start replacing them with iPhone 16s."

So even if you are looking for an iPhone 14, you can expect a price drop - in September 2023, Apple dropped the price of the iPhone 13 after it announced the 15 would shortly go on sale.

The possible exceptions

As with everything, there are a few exceptions to the rule: if you are looking for an iPhone 13, or SE. Apple is likely to stop selling these entirely (although they may be available on the secondary market for a while yet, while retailers clear out old stock), so you may want to get that while you still can.

However, as Macworld says, "bear in mind that soon the iPhone 14 will have a similar price", so you may be better off waiting anyway to get more bang for your buck. 

As expected, the House of Commons has voted to approve the government's cut to the winter fuel allowance.

For clarity - the motion that has been voted on was to cancel the government's move to cut the £300 payment to pensioners.

The result of the vote is:

• Yes (to cancel the cut): 228
• No (to approve the cut): 348

For all the latest news from parliament, read more in our  Politics Hub ...

Warehouse workers, healthcare assistants and chefs face the steepest car insurance premiums in the UK, new data shows.

For warehouse workers , their costs are nearly £400 more than others - whilst the average is £985, for them it comes in at £1,372, new research from Quotezone has found. 

Healthcare assistants working in hospitals, care homes, and clinics also face substantial car insurance premiums. Likely due to long shifts, high levels of stress, and frequent travel between different healthcare settings, these professionals can face premiums that are 36% above average.

Chefs are also hit with pricey premiums - 30% above average, which may come down to them working unsociable hours and in a high-pressure environment. These factors likely correlate with increased accidents during risk analysis.

These professions have lower premiums

Meanwhile, insurance experts found teachers , civil servants and even HGV drivers are typically quoted premiums as much as 41% less than the national average.

Retired people typically enjoy the cheapest premiums – as much as 50% less than the average.

How tweaking your job title can decrease your insurance

When it comes to listing your job with your insurance, some small (legal) tweaks can make a difference. 

The team at MoneySavingExpert have this  handy tool to show you what difference a title can make.

For example, if you are a delivery driver, listing yourself as a haulage contractor could save you up to £350 on an initial premium of £985.

But you need to make sure your job still legally describes your work and it comes with a warning from Martin Lewis: "When considering whether you can use a different title, alway imagine you were asking a reasonable person who knew what you do for a living.

"Would they say it was reasonable for you to describe yourself this way?"

Waverley, in Surrey, and Waltham Forest, in Greater London, are the top rising neighbourhoods for first-time buyers across the UK, new data has revealed.

Using data from 2013 to 2023, Santander has analysed which neighbourhoods have had the largest increase in the number of first-time buyer (FTB) purchases over that time - and which have had the biggest drops.

Overall, London has become less popular, with the number of first-time purchases dropping nearly 80% in the past ten years. 

Santander also found that FTBs are increasingly compromising on location to fulfil their dream of owning a home - with two-thirds (67%) moving to an area they had never been to before, compared to just over half (51%) of those who bought more than five years ago.  

This is due to a lack of suitable properties and affordability constraints, with those who made the move saving an average of £29,000, compared to buying in the neighbourhood they previously lived in.

This is more true in London than any other region, with 63% moving away from family and friends to get on to the property ladder - more than any other region.

Meanwhile, Elmbridge, Tower Hamlets and Teignbridge saw the biggest drop in first-time buyers moving into the neighbourhood. 

Graham Sellar, head of mortgage development at Santander, said: "Our latest data shows that first-time buyers are increasingly looking to purchase in neighbourhoods where they previously might not have considered - or even heard of.

"Those neighbourhoods which have seen the largest drop in FTB purchases, such as Teignbridge, also tell a story, as it becomes clear that location has become the number one compromise for many looking for their first home.  As first-time buyers explore these alternative neighbourhoods, we want to reassure our customers that Santander are here to support them achieve the exciting milestone of purchasing their first home, wherever it may be."

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