If you are a full time mature student (any age - I am nearly 60), you can get the young persons railcard. You get some odd looks when you use it. I had to get my application signed by someone at the university and an official UEA stamp and then just went to the station with a photo. I wish I had known this earlier. Would have saved loads over the last 2 years.
Is there a railcard for people aged 26 and over to transfer to when the 16-25 young persons railcard expired?
if you are still in full time education, you can get national rail care. All you need is a letter form your education institution confirming that you are in full time education.