How to Apply for a Free Student Bus Pass

 Learn how to apply for a free or discounted student bus pass in the UK, who is eligible, and what proof you need to access subsidised travel.

Many young people in full-time education are eligible for free or discounted travel to help with the cost of getting to school or college. These schemes vary across the UK depending on your local authority, age, and course type. Some students receive free bus travel, while others can apply for subsidised or discounted passes that make public transport more affordable.

This guide explains who is entitled to a free student bus pass, what it's used for, how and when you can use it, and how to apply.

Subsidised Transport for 16 to 19 Year Olds in Education 

In England, there is no national free bus pass for all students. Instead, support is offered locally. Local councils or transport operators provide subsidised travel for 16–19-year-olds enrolled in full-time education, apprenticeships or training. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own schemes, and in some cases, students under 22 can also benefit from free or reduced fares.

While not every student will get free travel, many can access reduced fares or travel grants.

Who Is Entitled to a Pass?

Eligibility depends on where you live and your circumstances. Typically, you may qualify if:

  • You are aged 16 to 19 and in full-time education

  • You are enrolled on a college course, T Level, apprenticeship or training scheme

  • You live a certain distance from your school or college

  • Your household income is below a certain threshold

  • You have special educational needs or a disability

  • You are unable to access education without help with transport

Some councils automatically issue free passes to qualifying students. Others require you to apply online.

What Is the Pass For?

A student bus pass is used to:

  • Travel between your home and your place of education

  • Access work placements if they’re part of your course

  • Get to training centres, sixth forms, or FE colleges

Some passes cover just school hours, while others are valid across the entire week, depending on your local authority or the transport provider.

When Can You Use the Pass?

Most student travel passes are valid:

  • During term time

  • On school days only, unless otherwise stated

  • Often during off-peak hours or with restrictions at weekends or evenings

Some schemes also allow discounted travel outside school hours. In some regions, you can pay to upgrade to an all-week pass.

How to Apply for a Student Bus Pass

Each council or transport authority has its own application process. Here's how to get started:

  1. Check your local council’s website or contact the education or transport department to see what schemes are available in your area.

  2. Review the eligibility criteria, which often include age, household income, and distance from your place of study.

  3. Complete the application form online or request a paper copy if needed.

  4. Provide the required documentation – typically this includes:

    • Proof of age and identity

    • Proof of enrolment from your school, college or training provider

    • Proof of residence

    • Financial information if means-tested

Deadlines vary, especially at the start of the academic year, so apply early if possible.

Proof of Eligibility

You’ll usually need to upload or provide:

  • A passport or birth certificate

  • A letter from your school or college confirming enrolment and attendance

  • Proof of address (such as a utility bill or benefit letter)

  • Evidence of income or benefits (if applying for support based on financial need)

Some areas may require an ID photo for a personalised travel card.

What If I Don’t Qualify for a Free Pass?

Even if you’re not eligible for free travel, many bus and train companies offer student discount cards, such as:

  • 16–25 Railcard

  • Local student travel cards (e.g. Oyster 16+ in London, West Yorkshire MCard, or Greater Manchester Our Pass)

  • Operator-specific passes (Stagecoach, Arriva, First Bus, etc.)

These can save you up to a third on travel costs and are widely accepted across public transport networks.

Final Thoughts

While not all students receive free bus passes, many 16–19-year-olds in education are eligible for support through their local authority. Whether you receive free travel or discounted fares, applying early and providing the correct documents is key.

Check with your local council to understand what’s available in your area, as schemes differ depending on location. For those who aren’t eligible for free travel, there are still plenty of options to reduce travel costs during your studies.