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One of the best things about being a student is that you can get discounts on various things—including flights. Certain airlines offer special fares for students so you can quickly fly to your home for a vacation or even go on a holiday with a few friends. The best thing about these deals is that they come with perks and privileges.
Who is Eligible for a Student Flight Discount?
Student discounts are special rates offered by airlines for students. Some airlines provide them, while others don’t.
Depending on the airline you’re booking with, you may be asked to prove that you are a student by presenting documents. In some instances, the airline may ask you for a valid student I.D. or your letter of acceptance from the school where you plan to study.
In other cases, the airline will ask you for your student email address provided by the school. Some airlines only allow student discounts for a specific age range, like those aged 18-22 or 18-32.
How to Get Student Discounts When Flying
Getting a student discount when flying is a simple process.
Check the Airline Student Discount Policy
Various airlines will have different policies in place when getting a student discount. Some airlines allow you to book your student discount via their web page by simply keying in a discount code. Others require you to transact with them via phone or email. When you’re making your purchase, check first what the airline’s processes are so you can get the discount.
Some airlines have a membership club you can be a part of that will give you a lot of discounts, freebies, and perks the more you book with them. Weigh all the options and see which one suits you best. Consider the destinations you often fly to and out of to determine if the membership is worth it.
Remember to Bring the Necessary Documents When You Fly
Some airlines will ask you to provide the necessary documents to prove that you are a student when buying a ticket. Others let you key in a specific code when purchasing through their website and then ask you to bring your student I.D. or admissions letter when you check in at the airport.
Either way, it’s good to have these documents with you all the time just in case they ask for it. Keep a virtual copy in your mobile phone also, so it’s easily accessible.
Take Note of the Destination
Some airlines offer discounted rates for specific locations only. Other airlines also have partner schools or programs and only offer their discounts to students from there. Several airlines, however, offer their discounts to any student as long as you have a student I.D. or can prove that you are a student.
How Much Does the Student Discount Save?
Student discounts vary per airline. Some of them will give you up to a 10% discount. Other airlines have an established discount system where you can get 10% off for the first flight, 15% off for the second, and up to 20% off for the next flight.
International Airlines That Offer Student Flight Discounts
Here are the international airlines that offer student discounts:
Airline | Discount | Cabin / Class Type | Additional Perks |
Air France | Varies | • Economy | • Two free checked bags • Flexible/changeable booking |
Cathay Pacific | Varies | • Premium Economy • Business Class | • Flexible travel options • Extra baggage allowance |
Emirates | 10% | • Economy Class • Business Class | • Extra 10 kg luggage (or 1 bag) • Flexible options to change your flight • Discount extends to family and friends as long as the student flies with them |
Etihad Airways | 5 – 10% | • Economy Class • Business Class | • Increased luggage allowance • Discount applies to one accompanying adult passenger |
KLM Royal Dutch | Varies | • Economy Class | • More baggage allowance • Maximum flexibility |
Lufthansa | Varies | Selected fare classes | • 1 free checked bag • 1 free re-booking |
Malaysia Airlines | Up to 30% | Selected fare classes | • Additional 10 kg baggage • 1 complimentary date change • Promo for family and friends • Flexible payment options |
Qatar Airways | 10 – 20% | Selected fare classes | • Additional baggage allowance • Complimentary WiFi • One complimentary date change • Special fare offers for family members and friends |
Ryanair | 10% | Selected fare classes | • Free 20 kg check-in bag |
Singapore Airlines | 10-45% | • Economy Class • Premium Economy Class | • Increased checked baggage allowance • Complimentary booking change |
Thai Airways | Varies | • Economy Class • Business Class | • Extra 10 kg baggage allowance • Complimentary flight/date change |
Turkish Airlines | • 10% on international flights • 20% on domestic flights | Selected fare classes | • Increased baggage allowance • One-time free ticket change • More miles earned |
North American Airlines That Offer Student Flight Discounts
Here are the North American airlines that offer student discounts:
Airline | Discount | Cabin / Class Type | Additional Perks |
Air Canada | Varies | • Economy fare • Standard fare • Flex fare | • Locked-in prices • Flexible booking • Seat selection • Additional Aeroplan points |
American Airlines | Only for partner universities | ||
Delta | Only through websites like Student Universe, ScholarTrip, etc. | ||
United Airlines | 5% discount | • Basic Economy • United Economy |
Tips for Getting a Student Discount
- Always carry your I.D. and other papers with you. Even if you have already established that you are a student while buying a ticket with a student discount, airport staff might still ask for it when you check in. Make sure you have digital copies on your phone and email also.
- Look for flights as early as possible. Sometimes, you can snag better deals when you book earlier. If you’re flying somewhere for vacation, don’t wait till it’s almost time for you to fly before buying tickets.
- Read the fine print. An airline’s terms and conditions give you more details—details that could be very important regarding destinations, flight changes, cancellations, and more. Read these before flying so there are no sudden changes that could cost more.
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