Nearly free rides across Southern California: How to claim the 50% Metrolink student discount and skip expensive campus parking

Save

Share

Natalia Alvarez

 –  Junior Staff Writer

 ·  October 14, 2026

Add us as a preferred source

Here’s Advice To Those Moving To Los Angeles From Locals

17 Fun And Unique Ways To Treat Yourself To A Solo Date In Los Angeles

Getting around Los Angeles and Southern California just got a whole lot cheaper.

Metrolink is offering all students with a valid student ID a 50% discount on train tickets and passes.

If you are tired of sitting in gridlock, this is your ticket out. You can now study, relax, or scroll on your phone instead of driving.

It is easier and more affordable than ever to commute to class, head to work, or simply explore the region.

Why you should ditch the car

Riding Metrolink comes with major everyday perks. Here is why students are making the switch:

• Save 50% or more on every single ride.
• Skip the traffic headaches and expensive campus parking permits.
• Enjoy free transfers to local connecting transit with all Metrolink fares.
• Earn points toward prizes through the SoCal Explorer Rewards loyalty program.

How to stack discounts for ‘nearly free’ rides

If you want to maximize your savings, there is a second tier to this deal. Students who have a California EBT card qualify for an additional 50% discount through the Mobility-4-All program.

When stacked, qualifying students can ride for nearly free. Note that this specific EBT stack offer is currently available on ticket machines only, not on the mobile app.

1. Visit the Metrolink website to learn more about Mobility-4-All.
2. Use your CA EBT card at the ticket machine to obtain the discount.
3. Once validated, you receive another 50% off your Student/Youth fare.

How to get your standard student discount

Ready to ride? You have two simple ways to grab your discounted fare.

Option 1: In the Metrolink Mobile App

1. Download the Metrolink Mobile App on iOS or Android.
2. Select the “Student/Youth” discount as your fare type.
3. Pay with your preferred method and activate your ticket before boarding.
4. Keep your student ID ready to show upon request.

Option 2: At Station Ticket Machines

1. Select your origin and destination stations, plus your ticket type.
2. Choose the “Student/Youth” discounted fare type.
3. Insert your payment and collect your printed ticket.
4. Show your ticket and student ID when requested.