Getting around Maryland and D.C. just got more affordable for students thanks to a new student discount program, the MARC Student Saver program, which saves them 50 percent on a one-way or monthly MARC Train ticket. The Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (M TA) announced the new program for students enrolled in a high school, vocational/trade school, formal technical training program, college or university, including undergraduate and graduate programs. The initiative demonstrates the MTA’s commitment to connecting students to educational institutions, jobs, and opportunities around the region. The MARC Student Saver program began on Jan. 21, 2026. “The MARC train is a tremendous asset for our region, and we’re excited to welcome new student riders to the system,” Maryland Transit Administrator Holly Arnold said in a statement. “This program ensures that students, regardless of income, can access education, internships, jobs, and community events without transportation being a barrier.” To qualify for the discount, students must register and confirm enrollment in a qualifying educational institution. Once registered, they can purchase the discounted tickets through CharmPass, the MTA’s official mobile ticketing app. The discount is good for trips on any of MARC Train’s three lines: Penn, Camden, or Brunswick. Students need to register annually and provide updated documentation to continue participation. The MTA website has detailed instructions and FAQs on how to register for the MARC Student Saver program. In addition to making travel easier between and throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C., the MTA established a cross-honor program with Virginia Railway Express (VRD) in 2024.  In 2025 it released the MARC Growth and Transformation (GT) Plan and began construction to modernize the Martin Maintenance Yard, a core component to increasing service frequency customers want. The MTA is undertaking a series of fare policy updates to expand access and mobility for young public transit riders. Other updates include an expansion of the transfer window for CharmPass users and free rides for children 12 and under. ...read more read less