Student Oyster Card Process
By
ResLife
Posted 13 hours ago
Mon 23 Feb, 2026 09:02 AM
Apply today to get cheaper travel around London
Living and travelling around London can be expensive, but for students, there are many discounts and offers available, like Oyster cards, to make life a little easier (and cheaper!)
What is it?
- A student Oyster card is a London transport card which gives 30% off on adult-rate Travelcards and bus/tram season tickets for eligible students aged 18+.
- To get a card, you'll need to apply online. Queen Mary of London will have to approve your application. And it requires a £21 application fee.
When can I apply?
- Applications for student Oyster cards open on 1st September each year.
- You can apply once you've enrolled on your course - it won't work if you try to apply beforehand.
Step-by-step process
- Enrol first: Ensure you have fully enrolled at uni and have your student ID number.
- Create an account: Visit the TFL Photocard website and create an account.
- Apply online: Select 'Apply for 18+ Student Oyster photocard'.
- Enter details: Provide your details, including 'Queen Mary of London', student ID and your London address.
- Upload photo: Upload a digital, passport-style photo.
- Pay fee: Pay the £21 application fee.
- Approval & delivery: Once the institution verifies your status, the card will be sent to your address (it typically takes up to two weeks).
You can link a 16-25 Railcard to your Oyster to get 34% discount on pay-as-you-go off-peak fares.
Check out more information on the student Oyster card process.