A Parent’s Guide to the Student Oyster Card and 16–17 Zip Card
If your child is studying in London, a Student Oyster card or 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard can significantly reduce their travel costs, while also giving you peace of mind. These discounted travel cards from Transport for London (TfL) are designed specifically for students and can make getting around the city safer, easier, and far more affordable. For many families, ensuring their child has the right travel card is one of the first practical steps in preparing for life in London.
The Student Oyster card is designed for full-time students aged 18 and over who live in London during term time. It provides 30% off adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes, savings which quickly add up across the year. To apply, students must be enrolled at a registered institution such as Ashbourne College. The process is carried out online via the TfL website, and the college must confirm enrolment before the card is issued. Once the application is approved, the card is posted directly to the student’s London address. It’s a quick and straightforward process, but one worth completing well before term begins.
For younger students aged 16 or 17, the 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard offers even greater benefits, giving half-price travel on most TfL services including buses, tubes, and trains. This option is ideal for Sixth Form students, allowing them to travel more independently without the worry of adult fares. The application also takes place online, but parents or guardians are required to approve it.
You’ll need to help your child upload a suitable passport-style photo and provide valid identification documents as well as proof of address. This ensures the card is secure and tied directly to your child.
Both cards involve a one-off £20 administration fee, and it may take up to two weeks for delivery once the application has been submitted. It is strongly recommended to apply in advance of the new academic year to avoid paying higher travel costs in the meantime.
These cards are about more than saving money: they give your child the confidence and independence to travel across London safely and affordably. Whether they’re commuting to school each day, attending extracurricular activities, or exploring the city’s museums and cultural landmarks, having the right Oyster card means they can do so with ease.
If you are interested in more tips about your child’s journey in London, read our post on why London is one of the best places to study in the world.
1. What is a Student Oyster card and who can apply for it?
A Student Oyster card is for full-time students aged 18 and over who live in London during term time. It gives 30% off adult-rate Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes, helping reduce travel costs significantly.
2. How do you apply for a Student Oyster card?
Applications are made online via the Transport for London (TfL) website. Students must be enrolled at a registered institution such as Ashbourne College, and the college will confirm enrolment before the card is issued.
3. What is the difference between a Student Oyster card and a 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard?
The Student Oyster card offers 30% off travel for students aged 18 and over, while the 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard provides half-price fares for younger students. Both cards make travelling across London much more affordable.
4. Who is eligible for a 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard?
The 16–17 Zip Oyster photocard is available for students aged 16 or 17, often those in Sixth Form. It allows them to travel at half the adult fare across buses, tubes, and trains in London.