Starting Thursday, middle and high school students will be able to ride the MBTA at less than half-price.

The program lets students buy discounted monthly bus and subway passes even if their schools do not buy the Student Pass for them, the state transportation department said Tuesday.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority offers two ways for students to take advantage of the reduced fares — a Student CharlieCard, which allows students to pay half-price per trip, or a monthly Student Pass, which students can buy for $30. A monthly pass typically costs $84.50.

Previously, the passes had been available to students only when their schools purchased them, officials said. But after hearing that many students did not have sufficient access, the MBTA’s Fiscal and Management Control Board voted in March to expand the program.

Students will also now receive the discounted fares year-round.

Olivia Quintana