Train Concession Rules for Students and Youths (2026)
Indian Railways gives fare concessions to students for certain kinds of travel, which can save a good amount on train tickets. But the rules changed a lot after 2020, and many categories that existed earlier are no longer active. This guide explains, in simple words, the current railway concession rules for students and youths, who is eligible, how much you get, how to apply, and what has been suspended.
Important 2026 update: During the pandemic, from 20 March 2020, Railways withdrew concessions for most categories. The categories that were retained are 4 categories of Divyangjan (persons with disabilities), 11 categories of patients, and students. Many general public and youth concessions (such as for job interviews, work camps and integration camps) have not been restored. Always confirm the current status at the railway counter before you plan.
General Terms and Conditions
- Concession is given on the basic fare only. Other charges such as reservation fee, superfast surcharge, catering and GST are charged in full.
- Student concession is generally allowed in Second Sitting (2S) and Sleeper (SL) class.
- The age of the student should not exceed 25 years (up to 27 years for SC and ST students).
- Only one type of concession is allowed per passenger. You cannot combine two concessions.
- The concession must be authorised by the concerned zonal railway, and the concession certificate must be in the prescribed format signed by the Head of the institution.
Student Concession Categories and Percentage
Here are the main student and related concessions as per the rules, for the categories that are recognised:
| Category | Concession | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Students up to 25 years (general) | 50% in 2nd and SL class | Home town during vacation, exams, educational tours |
| SC and ST students up to 27 years | 50% in 2nd and SL class | Same as above |
| Girls up to graduation, boys up to Class 12 (including Madrasa) | Free Second Class MST | Between home and school |
| Students of Govt schools in rural areas | 75% in 2nd class, once a year | Study tour in groups |
| Rural Govt school girls | 75% in 2nd class | National level medical, engineering entrance exams |
| UPSC and SSC main exam candidates | 50% in 2nd class | Appearing in the main written exam |
| Foreign students in India | 50% in 2nd and SL class | Govt camps, seminars, historical visits |
| Research scholars up to 35 years | 50% in 2nd and SL class | Research work journeys |
For season tickets (Monthly and Quarterly), students generally get a 25% concession, and no other category is given season ticket concession.
Categories That Were Suspended
Several youth and general concessions listed in older guides are currently not active, as they were withdrawn in 2020 and not restored. These include, among others, concessions for unemployed youth going for job interviews, National Integration Camps, the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme, and work camp volunteers. If you are counting on one of these, check with the railway office first, since the position can change.
How to Apply for Student Concession
For Long-Distance Trains
- Get a concession certificate in the prescribed format, signed by the Head of your institution (Principal or HOD). It should mention your details and the purpose of travel (home town, exam or educational tour).
- Because e-tickets on IRCTC do not directly support student concession, book an I-ticket (or a full-fare ticket) first.
- Take the concession certificate and your student ID to the nearest PRS reservation counter.
- Submit the documents. The clerk issues a concessional ticket, and the difference in fare (less a small clerkage charge) is refunded as per rules.
- Carry your valid student ID and the concession form during the journey.
For Mumbai Local Trains (Student Pass)
- Collect the railway concession application form for students (available at your college office or the station).
- Fill it and get it signed by your college (Principal or HOD).
- Submit the form at the booking counter to get your student pass.
- You can get a First Class or Second Class student pass on a monthly, quarterly or yearly basis.
Tip: A digital concession certificate through DigiLocker is accepted at counters. Keep a soft copy ready to avoid carrying too many papers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do student concessions still exist in 2026?
Yes. Student concessions were among the categories retained after the 2020 withdrawal, along with certain patients and persons with disabilities. However, many other youth and general concessions remain suspended.
Can I get student concession on an e-ticket?
Directly, no. E-tickets on IRCTC do not support student concession booking. You book an I-ticket or full-fare ticket and get the concession at a PRS counter with your certificate.
How much concession do students get?
Generally 50% on the basic fare in Second and Sleeper class for home, exam and educational travel, and higher (up to free or 75%) for specific school and rural categories.
What documents are needed?
A concession certificate in the prescribed format signed by the Head of your institution, plus a valid student ID. A DigiLocker digital certificate is accepted.
Is there a season ticket concession for students?
Yes, students generally get a 25% concession on monthly and quarterly season tickets.
Quick Summary
| Who gets it | Students, with recognised categories retained after 2020 |
| Concession | Usually 50% on basic fare (2nd and SL class) |
| Season ticket | 25% for students |
| E-ticket | Not supported directly; use I-ticket plus PRS counter |
| Documents | Concession certificate from institution and student ID |
| Suspended | Many youth and general concessions since 2020 |
Student concessions can still save you a lot on train travel, but the rules are tighter than before, so it helps to know exactly what applies to you. Carry the right documents, use the PRS counter for the discount, and check the current status if you are unsure. For more, see our detailed Railway Concession Rules guide, the Child Fare Rules, and the Mumbai Local Season Ticket details.
Have a question about applying for student concession? Ask in the comments, and we will explain the steps in simple words.
