The government says the change will help more students afford travel during a key stage of their education or training. Lord Peter Hendy, rail minister, said: "This kind of common-sense change is exactly what passengers should expect from the railway. Priced at £35, the 16-17 Saver offers a full year of half-price travel for the eligible age group. Kaynat Ahmad, NUS vice president for further education, said: "The 16-17 Saver is essential for young people reliant on trains to get to college, work or training. "Allowing young people to access the savings past their 18th birthday will ease the financial pressures that commuting brings."