Students can travel free of charge on the train during their initial day of holiday break as a special privilege for first-year students.
In August 2025, Bavaria will introduce the "Free Ride for Top Students" (Freifahrt für Top-Schüler) program, offering free public transportation for the region's top-performing school students. This initiative aims to honour academic achievements while promoting climate-friendly mobility.
Eligibility for the program is typically based on students who have achieved at least one "1", "Excellent", equivalent high score, or outstanding written evaluation in their annual report.
The program covers extensive transport networks in cities and rural areas alike, including buses, trams, and regional trains operated by companies under the Bayerische Eisenbahngesellschaft (Bavarian Railway Company). Participating transport companies extend beyond DB Regio trains, encompassing all rail transport companies in Bavaria.
The offer is valid for one day only, on August 1, 2025, from 00:00 to 24:00. Students can travel free of charge on all second-class public transport in Bavaria. The action allows students to travel near the border, specifically to Lauda, Crailsheim, Ulm Hbf, Sonneberg (Thür) Hbf, Salzburg Hbf, Kufstein, via the Außerfernbahn to Reutte, and on the Memmingen - Wangen - Hergatz route.
The Bavarian Railway Company (BEG) and the Bavarian Ministry of Transport are organizing and supporting the program. School authorities and local transport companies coordinate to implement the program, ensuring eligible students receive free passes.
This initiative aligns with Bavaria’s broader goals to support education, environmental protection, and social equity. The free ride generally applies to all participating regional and local public transportation providers in Bavaria, including buses, trams, and regional trains. However, free rides do not typically extend beyond Bavaria’s borders into neighboring states or countries; travel beyond Bavaria often requires a separate ticket.
As the school year and program rollout advance, it is advisable for eligible students or parents to consult their school administration or official Bavarian public transport websites for the latest information and specific in-region provider lists. If you require exact application procedures or a list of all participating transport companies for 2025, I recommend checking official Bavarian state education and transport websites or contacting school administration offices directly.
Participating in the "Free Ride for Top Students" program on August 1, 2025, not only allows students to commute freely across Bavaria but also provides an opportunity for educational and personal growth, as they can attend various exhibition centers and educational institutions, fostering self-development and learning. This initiative, backed by the Bavarian Railway Company and Bavarian Ministry of Transport, aligns not only with Bavaria's commitment to promoting environmental protection but also to supporting education and social equity.
