Reading University is now participating in the Transport for London 18+ Student Oyster Photocard scheme. An 18+ Student Oyster photocard offers you the opportunity to spend less on travel in and around London.  This scheme is particularly beneficial to those students who are studying at Reading but who live in London, who have to spend a lot of their money on travel expenses getting to and from University.

An 18+ Student Oyster photocard entitles the holder to buy Student-rate Travelcards and Bus Passes valid for 7 days, one month or longer periods of up to one year, which costs 30% less than adult-rate season tickets.  Money can also be added to an 18+ Student Oyster photocard to pay adult-rate Oyster single fares, which are cheaper than paying by cash.

Single, daily, 3 Day tickets and Oyster single fares are not available at Student-rate.  If you live near your college or only make a few journeys you can get a normal Oyster card and pay as you go at adult-rate.

Am I eligible?

To apply for an 18+ Student Oyster photocard, you must be:

• A full-time student enrolled on a full-time course, consisting of 15 or more tuition led and/or structured learning hours a week over a period of at least 14 weeks.
• Enrolled on a part-time course of least 14 weeks duration and be in receipt of a fee grant, course grant or be receiving help from the Access to Learning Fund.
• A full time postgraduate student (i.e. studying/writing up for 15 or more hours per week).
• Working towards a research based degree such as a PhD or MPhil.

How do I apply?

Students at Reading University can apply online.  Applying online is much faster than paper (postal) applications.  Visit www.tfl.gov.uk for more information and to access the online application form.

Remember, to apply online you need to be a fully-enrolled student with your education establishment. Please do not apply until you are sure you have fully-enrolled on your course and:

• Have either paid your fees, or
• Provided satisfactory evidence of sponsorship

If you apply before you are fully enrolled, your 18+ Student Oyster photocard application will be rejected and your application fee will not be refunded.  If in doubt, check your enrolment status with Student Services in the Carrington Building (for undergraduate students) or with your Faculty Office (for postgraduate students).  Applying online is quicker and easier. You need to be able to supply:

• A digital passport sized photo, and
• Pay a £5 fee by credit or debit card.

When you apply, please use the name that you used when registering with Reading University.  If you use a different variant of your name it may not be recognised on university records.

To apply by post you will need to obtain an 18+ Student Oyster photocard application form from Student Services in the Carrington Building or from The Hub in your Students' Union. 

18+ Student Oyster photocard application forms (academic year 2007-2008), are only valid for applications received up to 31 July 2008.  Applications received after 31 July 2008 will not be processed. 

Where can I get more information?

Visit www.tfl.gov.uk for more information about Oyster Cards.