IRCTC
June 13, 2026
· 4 min read
· Updated June 13, 2026
Student Concession on Train Ticket 2026 — How to Get Discount on IRCTC
Quick answer
Students from recognised institutions get 25–50% discount on train tickets, but only when booked at the railway reservation counter — not online on IRCTC. Bring your student ID and a concession form from your institution. SC/ST students get 50% off in Sleeper and 2nd class.
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Student Concession Rates by Category
| Student category | Discount | Classes applicable | Purpose |
|---|
| General students | 25% off | Sleeper, 2nd class (2S) | Examination travel |
| SC / ST students | 50% off | Sleeper, 2nd class | Any purpose |
| Blind students | 75% off | All classes | Any purpose |
| Physically handicapped students | 75% off | All classes | Any purpose |
| Research scholars (PhD) | 50% off | Sleeper, 2nd class | Research-related travel |
How to Book a Student Concession Ticket
- Get a bonafide certificate or concession form from your school/college. Most institutions have a standard format — ask the administrative office.
- Visit the railway reservation counter (PRS counter — Passenger Reservation System) at your nearest railway station.
- Submit:
- Filled reservation form (available at the counter)
- Bonafide/concession certificate from institution
- Student ID card with photo
- Government ID proof
- The counter staff verifies eligibility and issues the concession ticket at the discounted rate.
- On the journey, carry all documents — the TTE may ask to see your student certificate and ID proof.
Why Can't I Book Student Concession on IRCTC?
IRCTC's online system cannot verify physical documents (student certificates, concession forms) required for concession booking. The verification has to be done in person at the counter. This is a long-standing limitation of Indian Railways' online booking system — the concession process hasn't been digitised yet.
Some students miss this concession entirely because they assume IRCTC handles everything online. You must go to the counter for student concession.
Important Rules and Tips
- The concession certificate must be on institutional letterhead with seal — photocopy is not accepted.
- Concession is available for one-way journey per certificate for most categories. A round-trip needs two certificates or a return concession (check with your institution).
- The concession does not apply to Tatkal, premium Tatkal, or Rajdhani/Shatabdi/Duronto trains in most categories.
- You can book up to 60 days in advance at the counter — same advance booking period as regular tickets.
Related: Senior citizen railway concession | Valid ID proof for train travel
Still unsure about your ticket? Check your latest status now and save the PNR for WhatsApp updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much discount do students get on train tickets in India?
The discount varies: general students get 25% off in Sleeper/2S class for travel to appear in examinations. SC/ST students get 50% off. Blind or physically handicapped students get 75%. The concession is available for eligible travel purposes, not all journeys.
Can I book student concession tickets online on IRCTC?
No. Student concession tickets cannot be booked online on IRCTC. You must visit the railway reservation counter in person with your student ID and concession certificate or form from your institution.
What documents do I need for student concession?
You need: (1) A bonafide student certificate or concession form issued by your school/college/university on institutional letterhead, (2) Your student ID card with photo, (3) A government ID proof. Both must show your name consistently.
For what purpose can students get railway concession?
Student concession is primarily for: travelling to appear in examinations, attending educational tours, representing your institution in competitions, or for SC/ST students for any purpose. It is not available for general holiday travel.
Does student concession apply to Rajdhani and Tatkal tickets?
No. Student concession applies only to regular (non-Tatkal) tickets in Sleeper, Second Class (2S), and sometimes AC classes depending on the category. It does not apply to Tatkal or Rajdhani Express tickets.
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Harsh Raj
Software developer and Indian Railways enthusiast. Built PNR Alert to help passengers track waitlisted tickets without the manual IRCTC refreshing. Writes about IRCTC booking, waitlist rules, and practical rail travel in India.
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