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Last updated:Today at 12:20
Train companies affected:National Rail

Railcards for Mature Students

Don’t miss out on money off!

If you are a full-time student you could be entitled to a Railcard.

I’m a mature student, can I get a Railcard?

Yes! As long as you are studying:

  • full time for over 15 hours a week

  • for at least 20 weeks a year

  • at a recognised institution (excluding Open University and distance learning)

you are able to get a 16-25 Railcard – no matter how old you are. And it’s the best way to get money off your train tickets, leaving you more cash to spend on everything else.

Don’t be fooled by the name, if you are a mature student aged 26 or over you can get a 16-25 Railcard for each year you are in full-time education, and all the same benefits and discounts when you’ve bought it.

You will have to show proof that you are a full-time student when you apply for your Railcard and will need to renew it annually. 

There are over half a million mature students in the UK so, if you’re one of them, make sure you get your Railcard to enjoy 1/3 off train travel around Great Britain and more.

16-25 Railcard for Mature Students

  • Mature students aged 26 and over can still get a 16-25 Railcard

  • It costs you just £30 a year

  • You get 1/3 off rail travel

What counts as a mature student in full-time education?

Anyone who starts studying at college or university after the age of 21 is classified as a mature student.

We define full-time study as attending college or University (in the United Kingdom) for 15 hours or more a week for at least 20 weeks a year.

This does not include Open University, distance learning and part-time courses.

How do I get my Railcard?

You can apply for your Railcard online or in person at a staffed station ticket office.

Before you apply, you will need to get the Mature Student application form filled in by your place of study.

You will also need to show an NUS card or College/University photocard as proof of identity.

How long does my Railcard last?

If you are a mature student aged 26 or over, you can get a 1-year 16-25 Railcard for each year that you are in full-time education.

Are there any other Railcard options for mature students?

If you are aged 21 to 25, then you can apply for the 16-25 Railcard regardless of your educational status.

If you are a mature student aged between 26 and 30 and in full-time education, you could also choose the 26-30 Railcard. However, you might still prefer to get a 16-25 Railcard as this option has no minimum fare in July and August.

If you are a mature student aged between 26 and 30 but you are studying with the Open University or doing a distance learning or part-time course, you could still apply for a 26-30 Railcard.

To see our full range of Railcards, visit the Railcard website.

Can I renew my Railcard?

Yes, mature students can renew their Railcard each year as long as they are still in full-time education.

Want to know more?