Transport for London (TfL) has provided some useful information about London student travel. For international students, understanding London's transportation system and costs is crucial.
18+ Student Oyster photocard: International students can apply for the 18+ Student Oyster card, which offers a 30% discount on Travelcards and Bus & Tram Passes. Additionally, this Oyster card can be used for pay as you go travel, but the 30% discount does not apply.
Pay as you go: If you live close to school or only travel occasionally, pay as you go might be more economical. You can use the 18+ Student Oyster card, regular adult Oyster card, or contactless payment (card or device) for pay as you go travel.
Railcard discount: Students with a 16-25 Railcard or 26-30 Railcard can add it to their 18+ Student Oyster card or regular adult Oyster card to receive a 34% discount on off-peak pay as you go and daily caps on the Tube, London Overground, Elizabeth Line, and most National Rail services.
Off-peak travel: Traveling during off-peak times with pay as you go can be cheaper. Off-peak times are before 06:30 and between 09:30-15:59 on weekdays, after 19:00, or anytime on weekends and bank holidays. Night Tube and Night Overground services also count as off-peak.
Daily caps: Using the 18+ Student Oyster card, regular adult Oyster card, or contactless payment (card or device) for multiple journeys within one day will have a daily cap set by TfL.
Hopper fare: The Hopper fare allows unlimited bus or tram journeys within one hour, with pay as you go costing just £1.65.