Students urged to travel smart and save BIG with Translink’s yLink Card

Celebrating their A Level results and their new YLINK cards are Nell, Olivia and Becca.  The yLink card is your ticket to cheaper, easier, greener travel – and it’s for everyone aged 16–23. 

Thousands of young people across Northern Ireland are being encouraged to take advantage of Translink’s yLink card, offering half-price travel and exclusive discounts as they prepare for the next stage of their lives.

With A-Level and GCSE results released this week, Translink is urging students and young people aged 16–23 to sign up for the free yLink card and enjoy significant savings on travel.

With more than 100,000 cards already in circulation, the scheme has quickly become an essential for young travellers, offering 50% off bus and rail fares across Northern Ireland alongside exclusive deals at cafés, shops, and entertainment venues.

Thanks to recent upgrades, yLink can also be added to a smartphone wallet via the mLink app, with contactless payments now available across all Translink services—making travel more convenient than ever.

Maeve Nethercott, Brand Representative at Translink, highlighted the growing popularity of the scheme:

“yLink remains hugely popular, especially as young people collect their results and prepare to begin a new chapter – whether that’s university, college or starting a career.

“This card offers real value with half-price travel and brand partner discounts, making it an essential money-saving tool for anyone aged 16–23.

“It’s also inspiring to see more young people choosing public transport, playing a vital role in cutting carbon emissions and building a healthier, better-connected society.”

Ben Friel, President of NUS-USI, echoed this message, adding:

“yLink’s 50% discount off fares helps more students access education, stay connected, and protect the planet.”

From commuting to class and work to exploring new opportunities, the yLink card provides young people with an affordable and sustainable way to travel.

Applications are free and available online at translink.co.uk/ylink.