Railway Concession for Students: Discount, Eligibility & How to Apply 2026

Quick Answer

Indian Railways offers student concessions of up to 50% on base fare for bonafide students of recognised institutions. The concession is given on specific categories of travel (home to institution and back, inter-institution visits, etc.) and requires a college/school certificate. It is NOT available for all journeys.

Railway Guide Updated 2026-06-07 Free tools linked below

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Concession Percentage by Class

Student concession rates: Second/General (GN): 50% discount for school students, 25% for college students. Sleeper (SL): 50% for all students. 3AC: 25% for certain categories. The concession applies only to base fare, not reservation charges or superfast charges.

Eligible Students and Journey Types

Eligible: Bonafide students of schools, colleges, universities, and recognised institutions. Journey types eligible: Home to institution and return (at start/end of academic session). Students attending educational excursions. Students appearing in exams at other centres. Students attending sports events or competitions (with sports ID). NOT eligible: Holiday trips, pilgrimage, personal travel.

How to Apply for Student Concession

Get a Student Concession Form from your school/college office. The institution secretary/principal must fill, sign, and stamp the form. Take the stamped form to the railway booking counter (not available online via IRCTC). Present the form along with student ID. The counter clerk will issue the ticket at discounted fare. The form is usually valid for one round trip.

Documents Required

Bonafide certificate from school/college. Student ID card. Student Concession Form (issued by school/college). For college outstation exams: admit card or hall ticket.

Common Questions

Is student concession available on IRCTC online?

No — student railway concession can only be availed at the physical ticket counter, not online.

What is the student concession percentage on trains?

Up to 50% on base fare in SL class. Varies by class and student type. Ask at the counter for exact discount applicable.

Does student concession apply to all trains?

No — concession does not apply to Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Vande Bharat, Gatimaan, and Duronto. It applies to regular Mail/Express trains.

Can I use student concession for any personal trip?

No — only for approved journey types (home-institution, exams, competitions). Random personal travel is not eligible.

Useful Links

Check your ticket directly, track train running status, or read related railway guides.

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