Student NOL Card: Application, Types, and Eligibility

Student NOL Card

Have you just enrolled in a university or college, and now all you want is a student NOL card? Could you be looking forward to knowing everything required to get a student NOL card? Traversing Dubai’s extensive transport system is an uphill task, especially if you are a student.  

When you are a student, most things are limited, including the available cash for daily expenses. This poses a great challenge not only to you but also to other students you are schooling with. However, the student NOL card makes everything around transportation easier; therefore, it is a must-have for every student residing in the UAE.

With this card, students can save money and time, which is essential in their studies. But do you know what is required to get the card? How much is the application fee? How about the document required? These are the questions we shall be answering in this article. We shall also tell you the whole application process from the first step to the last. So, get along with me and become an expert in this. Enjoy the read.

What Are The Steps For Applying For The Student NOL Card?

The NOL card is an important travel document across the Dubai public transport systems. Applying for a Student NOL card is a simpler and straightforward process that any student can do online or in person. Here are the steps you need to follow.

Steps For Applying For The Student NOL Card

1.  Gather the Required Documents

During the application process, there are important documents that are a must for it to be successful. Even before starting the application process, you must have these documents. They include a valid Emirates identity card, which is mandatory for all applicants. Ensure you have scanned both sides of the ID or photos of both sides of the card.

You will also need a recent passport personal photograph with a white background. The passport should be in JPG format and less than 2 MB in size. Still on the documentation, you may be required to give more documents if needed. For the students, they must produce a student’s ID or an official enrollment letter issued by the relevant educational institution.

2. Visit the Official NOL Card Service Center or do an Online Application

Now, assuming you have the required documents, you have two options to do your application: the first one is the online application. This is the most convenient application process. Go to the RTA official website or the NOL pay mobile app. You can submit your application, upload documents, and pay the required fee from the comfort of your sitting room or anywhere else through the website or the NOL pay mobile App.

The second way to submit your application is to do so in person. You may be one of those students who prefer a face-to-face application; you can do so by visiting any RTA ticketing office or metro station service centers. There are qualified staff members there who will help you through the application process and verify your documents and everything else for a successful application.

3. Fill Out The Application Form

When doing the application process, you must fill out a detailed online form with your correct and accurate personal details as they are on your documents. Choose the appropriate card, and in this case, choose the student card. Next, decide whether you want a regular or gold class, where gold offers a more premium travel experience, obviously at a higher rate, and vice versa. 

Then, enter your details as they appear on your ID, mobile phone number, and email address. Ensure you are accurate when keying in these details, which are vital for a successful application. Lastly, where do you want it delivered? Enter the address where you want your card delivered. Also, ensure the address is correct and complete to avoid delivery-related issues.

4. Submit Your Application

After you have done the abovementioned steps and confirmed that everything is as required, it is time to submit your application. Attach the scanned copies or photos of your emirate ID and any additional documents. Pay the application fee securely using a credit or debit card. 

The fee charges during application vary depending on the card type and the class preferred. After submitting, you will get a reference number. This is the number you will use to track and check the progress of your application through the RTA portal.

Types Of Student NOL Cards

Type of Student NOL Card Description Eligibility Age Validity Discount Modes of Transport Covered
Personal NOL Card (Blue) A personalised card linked to the Emirates ID allows balance recovery and online top-up 5 to 23 years 1 year (renewable) 50% discount on fares Metro, buses, tram, water buses
Student Category on Personal NOL Card Category within the personal NOL card for students 5 to 23 years 1 year (renewable) 50% discount on regular fare Metro, buses, tram

Where Can You Apply For a Student NOL Card

There are different ways and places where one can apply for their student’s NOL card. Among these places are:

Online Application

You can apply for your students’ NOL cards by visiting the RTA website or using the RTA Dubai app. During the application process, there are documents you will be required to upload. These documents include the Emirate Identity card, a recent photo of yourself, and a valid student enrollment letter. You will also be required to pay fees totalling AED 70, where AED 50 caters to the application fee, and the remaining AED 20 goes to the card.

Education Institutions

You can always get assistance from universities and colleges when applying for a student NOL card.  For instance, Middlesex University Dubai issues a status letter to students to help them apply to the RTA. 

Metro And Bus Stations

Perhaps you can access an educational institution or the RTA website. You can apply in person at the NOL service designated places at major metro and bus stations. Once you are there, you will fill out the application form, attach copies of your documents, and pay a fee to have your card processed.

Documents Needed to Apply for a Student NOL Card

Valid Emirates ID

A valid Emirate ID is the most important document above all other documents. It proves or shows that you are an official resident of the UAE. 

A Document Or Certificate Confirming You Are A Student In The UAE

Can you prove that you are a student in any recognized college or university in the UAE? You only need to submit an enrollment document or certificate from your educational institution, which can be a student card or an official letter. 

A Passport-Size Photograph With A White Background

Apart from the Emirate ID and the Document confirming you are a student, you also need to have a passport-size photograph. This photograph should have a while background and be 2 MB in SIZE. One of the important things to keep in mind is that all the documents should be in Arabic. Otherwise, ensure you provide a certified translation for a smooth application process.

Student NOL Card Eligibility Criteria

1
You, as an applicant (student), must be between 5 and 23 years old.
2
You must be a full-time student enrolled in an accredited university or college in the UAE.
3
You must have all the required documents, including a valid Emirates ID, passport-size photograph with a white background, passport copy, and student status proof.

Student NOL Card Benefits

Students’ NOL card offers multiple benefits designed to support students’ transportation and even more.

50% Discount on Public Transport Fares

Students get a discount of half the price of the fare on all Dubai public transport modes. These modes include metro, buses, and water, making daily commuting more affordable.

70% Discounts On Shopping And Services

Students who hold an NOL card are assured of exclusive discounts and promotional offers to the tune of up to 70%. They also enjoy several outlets both within the UAE and internationally. These discounts include flight, accommodation, dining, and more.

Convenience

The fact that the students’ NOL card can be used in several retail outlets in the UAE reminds one of the greatest convenience to students who often find themselves shopping now and then. This gives students freedom to move around without worry since they know they can always shop anywhere as long as they have the card.

Conclusion

Getting your student NOL card is not only about obtaining a travel pass. It is also your gateway to pocket-friendly, efficient, and eco-friendly commuting throughout Dubai. 

You can get a student NOL card by following the straightforward steps outlined here, swiftly access discounted fares, and enjoy uninterrupted travel across the cities in Dubai.  

Whether you apply via the online portal, mobile app, or in person at either the metro station or educational institutions, the whole process is designed to be smooth and accessible.  

Ensure you don’t miss out on this essential card for all students residing in Dubai. Apply and take advantage of Dubai’s modern, reliable transport network tailored to your needs.