Student train ticket discount extended to February

ScotRail is making it easier and more affordable for students to return to university at the start of this year.

Students were able to take advantage of half price travel on any off-peak ScotRail service until December 24, but the deadline to make the return journey has been extended from January 23

19.

This follows the decision by Scottish universities to stagger the return of undergraduates over at least six weeks, in a package of measures to minimise the spread of Covid-19.

The extension will be a huge boost to students who are to February worried about getting back to their campuses under new coronavirus travel restrictions, or who might be self-isolating.

The off-peak half price offer will be a flexible, open-return ticket valid for eight weeks after purchase, which will allow most students to return to their studies in January and February after recording another negative coronavirus test. The discount will be available on off-peak day return and off-peak return tickets.

Students who bought the discounted tickets up until December 24 will have until February 19 to use the return portion of the journey, even if the ticket shows an earlier ‘valid to’ date. Students are being reminded to check public health restrictions for the start and end of their journey to ensure they are complying with the law.

And, like all customers, they are being urged to observe the five rules for safer travel, including wearing a face covering and maintaining physical distancing.

Lesley Kane, ScotRail commercial director, said: ‘We’re sure it will be popular amongst students who are understandably worried about the impact coronavirus will have on their studies.’