Student discount on JR?

I've read that JR offers a 20% discount on trips 100km or longer for students. I'm a university student traveling to japan to volunteer(but not to study abroad). What do I need to get the discount? Will my current university ID suffice?


Also, on hypderdia, there is a charge next to the fare called ''charge'' and has (reserved seat) next to it. Is this the charge associated with traveling on a shinkansen or limited express?


Thanks in advance

I've read that JR offers a 20% discount on trips 100km or longer for students. I'm a university student traveling to japan to volunteer(but not to study abroad). What do I need to get the discount? Will my current university ID suffice?

I doubt that your current university ID will suffice. But note that the Japan Rail Pass for foreign tourists is likely the better value than the student discount, anyways:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2361.html

Also, on hypderdia, there is a charge next to the fare called ''charge'' and has (reserved seat) next to it. Is this the charge associated with traveling on a shinkansen or limited express?

Yes, that is right.

There is a basic fare, plus extra charges. The basic fare is based on distance. There are extra charges for faster trains and reserving a seat. If you select "unreserved set" on hyperdia, the remaining "charge" shown is the extra charge for the faster trains. If you select "reserved seat", this will also include a bit more for the (usually optional) seat reservation fee.

Student Discounts apply to students studying in Japan at schools with arrangements to offer discounts with the railway company.

Usually it requires a specific certificate from the school (in Japan) and filling out paperwork at the station commuter office.

For students not studying at a school in Japan, student discounts don't apply.