The cost of some student bus passes will increase significantly from September due to budget strain. The price of a Severn Card, for students aged 19 and under in Worcestershire, will increase by between £124 and £240 per year. The passes are valid 24 hours a day on any participating bus service. Some students aged under 16 are eligible for a free Severn card, but others must pay. Despite the price hike, the county council maintains that Severn Cards are cheaper than similar schemes in other areas. The increase will contribute approximately £400,000 towards the cost of delivering the Home to School Transport service and help support transport provision across the county.