Karnataka extends free bus pass scheme to its students studying outside State

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At present, 19,792 students have bought Karnataka’s bus passes by paying the prescribed fee and are set to receive reimbursements. | Photo Credit: MURALI KUMAR K

The Karnataka government has expanded its free bus pass scheme to include students from the State studying in institutions outside Karnataka.

The State Transport Department on Friday (June 12, 2026) also issued guidelines for the distribution of free passes to male students, bringing them under the ambit of the scheme. Students — both boys and girls — will now be allowed to travel free of cost on buses operated by KSRTC, KKRTC, NWKRTC and BMTC.

As per the guidelines, existing eligibility criteria for student bus passes, including academic requirements, distance limits and pass validity, will continue to apply. Students can apply online through the Seva Sindhu portal by submitting the necessary documents.

Those who have already purchased bus passes can continue to use them for travel. The government has assured students that the amount paid will be refunded within 15 days. At present, 19,792 students have bought passes by paying the prescribed fee and are set to receive reimbursements.

According to the guidelines, the scheme will also cover students residing in Karnataka but studying in neighbouring states, as well as those living in border areas outside the state and pursuing education within Karnataka.

In addition, each student issued a free bus pass will be covered under accident insurance, with the government bearing a monthly premium of ₹5 per student. A processing fee of ₹100 per pass will also be paid by the government to transport corporations.

The State government estimates an annual expenditure of ₹286.08 crore for the scheme, and the guidelines state that the government will reimburse this amount to the four corporations.