Delta Airlines Student Discount Program
For students looking to travel on a budget, knowing about airline student discounts can help save a significant amount on airfare costs. One of the major carriers that does offer reduced student rates is Delta Airlines. While the Delta student fare program may not be as prominently promoted as competitors, there are certainly savings to be found for student travelers flying Delta. In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at Delta's student discount program - from eligibility requirements to booking policies and travel restrictions.
Who Qualifies for the Delta Student Discount?
To qualify for discounted Delta student fares, you must be between the ages of 13-25. You'll need to present a valid student ID from an accredited college, university, trade school or high school at the time of booking and travel. The ID must be government-issued and have your date of birth listed to prove you're within the eligible age range. Some examples of acceptable IDs include a driver's license with a "student" designation, university photo ID card, or high school ID.
How Much is the Delta Student Discount?
Savings through Delta's student fare program typically range from 5-10% off the lowest available published fare for a given route. The amount of discount can vary depending on demand, booking timeframes, and other market factors that influence airfare pricing. It's not a fixed dollar amount or percentage off, but students do generally see a reduced rate versus the standard public fare. The earlier you book, the better chance of getting closer to the 10% maximum discount potential.
How to Book Delta Student Fares
There are a couple ways to book discounted Delta student tickets:
Online at Delta.com - Simply select "Students" as the passenger type during booking and enter your student ID number. Be prepared to show valid ID at the airport as well.
By Phone - Call Delta's toll-free reservation number at
1-800-221-1212 or
1-844-540-1538. Representatives can assist with booking student fares over the phone and will need your student ID provided.
When booking online or over the phone, be sure to have your government-issued student photo ID ready to receive the reduced fare. The ID number is required for verification and to issue the proper student ticket.
Travel Restrictions and Blackout Dates
Delta student discounts apply to travel within the continental U.S., to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America. International travel outside of North America may have additional restrictions or blackout dates that don't qualify for the student rate.
Domestic travel within the U.S. is also subject to blackout dates, usually during major holiday periods like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's and summer breaks when demand is highest. Always check calendars on the Delta website for specific dates that student fares may not be available.
Booking in Advance is Key
As with most discounted airfares, the earlier Delta student bookings are made, the better chance of securing the lowest available rate. It's not uncommon for student fares to sell out for popular routes during peak travel seasons like summer break if booked within 2-3 weeks of departure. Booking at least a month in advance is recommended when possible to take full advantage of Delta's student program savings.
Other Things to Note
Baggage fees and policies apply the same as regular public fares booked in the same cabin class (main, Comfort+, First Class).
Award/miles bookings are not eligible for student discounts, which only apply to cash fares.
Changes and cancellations are permitted with applicable fees, which may be higher than regular public rates. Review policies carefully.
Some international student ID cards like ISIC may provide additional discounts on Delta beyond just the 5-10% student fare.
Always check Delta.com for the most up-to-date program details, terms, and any recent changes that may impact student travel. With a little planning, Delta's student discount offers real savings potential for budget-minded student flyers.
frequently asked questions about Delta's student discount program:
Q: What age range is eligible for the Delta student fare?
A: You must be between 13-25 years old to qualify for the discounted student rate.
Q: What types of student IDs are accepted?
A: Delta accepts government-issued high school, college/university photo IDs, or driver's licenses with a student designation and date of birth.
Q: How much is the typical student discount?
A: Savings are usually 5-10% off the lowest available published fare, but can vary depending on demand and booking timeframes.
Q: When is the earliest I can book a student fare?
A: You can book Delta student tickets up to 330 days in advance of your travel dates. The earlier the better for lower fares.
Q: Are there blackout dates when student fares aren't available?
A: Yes, domestic travel is blocked around major holidays. Check calendars for specific blackout periods that don't qualify.
Q: Can I make changes to a student ticket?
A: Changes are allowed for a fee, which may be higher than regular public rates. Review policies carefully before purchase.
Q: Do baggage fees apply to student fares?
A: Yes, baggage fees are the same as regular published fares in the same cabin class (main, Comfort+, First).
Q: Can I book an award ticket with miles/points using a student fare?
A: No, Delta's student discount only applies to cash fares, not award redemptions. Miles cannot be used.
Q: How can I check eligibility details or book a student fare?
A: Visit
delta.com and select "Students" or call Delta's reservation line at
1-800-221-1212 for assistance.