How to Get an International Student Identity Card?

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a globally recognised student verification card for international students. This card was first created by students in 1953 and has been used by UNESCO since 1968 as proof of identity in more than 130 countries. Students can use the international identity card to get thousands of benefits including discounts on food, shopping, and other services worldwide.

This Story also Contains

1. What is An International Student Card?
2. International Student Identity Card Benefits
3. Who is Eligible for an ISIC Card?
4. International Identity Card Cost
5. International Student Identity Card Validity
6. How to Get an International Student Identity Card?
7. International Student Identity Card: Documents Required
8. Is Student ID Proof of Identity?

There is no upper age limit for the International Student Identity Card (ISIC). Any candidate who can demonstrate their status as a full-time student can apply for the card by visiting the official ISIC website. However, students must demonstrate their eligibility through the necessary documents at the time of registration. The cost of an international identity card is between 4- 25 EUR.

Students can apply for the international identity card directly on the online website or can visit the local issuing office. The average processing time for the ISIC card is 3 – 4 weeks from the date of application. Candidates who are 30 years old or younger are eligible for the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) to access similar benefits and discounts. Full-time teachers or professors can apply for the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC) to get numerous savings, at home and abroad.

Students can directly contact the official ISIC authorities in cases of refusal of the international student identity card benefits. Many countries do not issue international identity cards for overseas students, For such instances, students can apply for an international student identity card in another country they visit. Read the complete article to learn more about how to get international student identity card.

What is An International Student Card?

An International Student Identity Card is an internationally accepted student verification card that offers international student community access and thousands of discounts worldwide for international students. The ISIC card is the only internationally accepted student identity card. It was first created by students in 1953 and is currently issued to 98 countries.

The ISIC card has been endorsed by UNESCO since 1968. This international identity card is endorsed by a wide range of national governments, ministries of education and tourism, student organisations, and universities worldwide. It is student ID proof of identity that aims to help students by making their lives easier, more affordable, and more enjoyable via international recognition of their official student status.

Also Read: Study abroad for Indian students

International Student Identity Card Benefits

An ISIC offers multiple benefits for international students studying abroad. The international student identity card offers global recognition to international students by offering thousands of discounts worldwide and access to the global student community. A few popular international student identity card benefits for overseas students are as follows:

• This card is endorsed by UNESCO as the only globally recognised proof of full-time student status.

• International students can get access to thousands of student discounts for shopping, culture, food, and more both at home and abroad.

• Students can become a part of a global student community.

• The international identity card provides access to student services and facilities internationally.

• This card works as a proof of age card for international students.

• With an ISIC, students can travel to over 130 countries as an international student status.

• Candidates can enjoy services and experiences relevant to all aspects of student life.

• Candidates can download the ISIC mobile app to access their international student identity card to avail of offers, and more all within their mobile device.

Also Read: Top Study Abroad Exams

Who is Eligible for an ISIC Card?

International students who are planning to study abroad must mandatorily demonstrate their eligibility requirements to get international student identity card benefits. The key eligibility requirements for the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) membership are as follows:

• The candidate must be a full-time student at school, college, or university.

• The international student identity card has no upper age limit.

• Students must prove their status as full-time students at the time of application.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right University Abroad?

International Identity Card Cost

The cost of International Student Identity Card (ISIC) membership varies depending on the country of issue. The general cost of an international identity card is between EUR 4 – 25. The card is regulated by the purchasing power within each country to maintain fairness.

Also Read: How to Study Abroad for Free?

International Student Identity Card Validity

The ISIC card is generally issued in line with the annual study cycle of the country where it has been purchased. Therefore, the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) membership is valid till the end of your study period.

How to Get an International Student Identity Card?

International students can access the ISIC card in two ways: online or at a local ISIC Office.

How to get International Student Identity Card online?

• Visit the official website of ISIC at isic.org.

• Check the eligibility criteria including the student status, age limit, and other information.

• Gather all the necessary documents.

• Click on the “Get Your Card” to start the process.

• Select your place of residence or study.

• Fill out the online application form by providing the necessary information including name, DOB, email address, phone number, and gender.

• Agree to the terms and conditions of the ISIC and Yes Bank to complete the signup process.

• Once you complete the signup process, pay the mandatory ISIC fees to purchase the card.

• After applying, it usually takes 3 – 4 weeks to process your online application. The card will be delivered to your address once it is processed.

Visit a local ISIC Office

Students can purchase the card instantly from the local issuing offices worldwide. Search for your local issuing office online. Provide the necessary documents along with your recent passport-sized photograph to purchase the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) membership.

Also Read: Benefits of Studying Abroad

International Student Identity Card: Documents Required

International students will need to provide the following documents to apply for the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) membership.

• A copy of your university or student identity card indicating your status as a full-time student.

• A signed and dated letter on official university or school stationery.

• Proof of the date of birth (for example, passport, birth certificate, Official Identity Card issued in your country of residence).

• A recent passport-sized photograph

Is Student ID Proof of Identity?

Yes, an international student identity card can be used as proof of identity. Students can use this card in different places in multiple counties worldwide to prove their student status. However, some countries may require a different form of personal identification. Therefore, students are advised to check the specific local regulations of the country and the university before applying to different courses. The ISIC card is not accepted as a form of identity in the US.