Central Location 

EMS has a broad catchment area covering the 4 counties of the South-West – Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.  We are located very centrally in Exeter, only a few minutes’ walk from both Exeter Central Railway Station and the central Bus Station.  EMS students can also use Exeter St David’s Mainline Station. 

Subsidised Travel Pass 

To support students accessing the school, we offer a subsidised travel scheme which is a flat cost to all students from across the region, regardless of where they travel from.  Residential students pay the same amount, as the cost of their longer journey is offset by the less regular travel. The cost of an annual pass for the academic year 25-26 is £315 per Autumn and Spring term, and £254 per Summer term, totalling £884 for the year.  This is the maximum amount a family will pay but many have this reduced by 50% or 100% through our bursary scheme (see below).  Payments can be paid in full at the beginning of the year or in 3 instalments across the year.   

Support for Low Income Families 

EMS has a bursary fund, known as the 16-19 bursary, which exists to support low-income families with the cost of the travel pass and other general school expenses, including graphical calculators, textbooks, educational visits, printing and stationery.  Students can apply for this fund during the admissions process or later in the year, providing funds remain. 

EMS 16-19 Bursary information: https://exetermathematicsschool.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/EMS-16-19-Bursary-Policy-2025.pdf

For further assistance on the 16-19 Bursary and the application form, please contact finance@exeterms.ac.uk

How does the Travel Pass work? 

The pass generally covers return travel on one particular route, eg Barnstaple to Exeter by train or by bus.  Any secondary means of transport such as travelling by bus to catch the train is not included in the travel pass.  Students can use the passes during the term at weekends and during half-terms.  

Is the EMS Travel Pass the most economical option?

We sometimes find that students can arrange more cost-effective travel independently, e.g. the 16-17 railcard, and we encourage families to explore all options.  For some students, the Exeter College bus routes are a good alternative to the EMS pass. These bus routes are paid direct to Exeter College.  We can help you determine the best option for your situation.  

Replacement Passes 

Exeter St David’s can re-print train passes at the counter for a cost of £10. If photo ID lost as well, a new photo will also be required (jpeg or printed). Bus passes can be replaced online at a cost of £5. 

Help 

Lydia and Louise are responsible for the travel pass scheme at EMS. For any queries about travelling to EMS, please feel free to get in contact: enquiries@exeterms.ac.uk or telephone 01392 429020.