Lori Meadows
If you're a student planning to study abroad, you may be considering getting an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). The ISIC card is the only internationally accepted student identity card, providing student status verification and access to thousands of discounts and benefits worldwide. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of the ISIC card, the application process, and whether it's worth getting one. We will also discuss other cards offered by the ISIC Association, such as the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) and the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC). By the end of this article, you should have all the information you need to decide if an international student identity card is right for you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of the card | International Student Identity Card (ISIC) |
| Who can apply | Full-time students in higher, tertiary, or full-time secondary education |
| Minimum age requirement | 12 years |
| Upper age limit | None |
| Documents required | Digital photo, scanned copy of proof of full-time student status, scanned copy of proof of identity |
| Additional documents for applicants under 16 years | Scan of legal representative's identity card |
| Application fee | Between €4 and €25 |
| Application processing time | 3 to 4 weeks |
| Card delivery | Physical or virtual |
| Benefits | Provides student status verification, access to thousands of discounts worldwide, access to the global student community |
| Countries available in | Over 130 countries |
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What You'll Learn
Who is eligible for an ISIC card?
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally recognised student ID card. It is a way for students to prove their identity and student status, without having to carry around their passport or driving licence. The ISIC card provides access to thousands of worldwide discounts and benefits, as well as access to the global student community.
To be eligible for an ISIC card, you must be a full-time student at school, college, or university. There is no upper age limit for the ISIC card, and children attending elementary or secondary school are eligible for the ISIC Scholar card. When applying for the ISIC card, individuals will need to provide proof of their student status, such as a university card or an official letter of acceptance, as well as proof of their identity, such as a passport or driver's license. The cost of the card varies by country, typically ranging from €4 to €25, or £12 for a virtual card and £15 for a physical card in the UK.
The ISIC card is not the only card offered by the ISIC Association. The International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) is available for youth and young adults up to the age of 30 who are not full-time students. The IYTC provides many of the same benefits and discounts as the ISIC card and is particularly useful for those travelling abroad. To obtain an IYTC, individuals must provide proof of their age with an official identity card, passport, or birth certificate. Additionally, the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC) is available for full-time teachers or professors working at an accredited educational institution for at least 18 hours per week for a minimum of one academic year.
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What documents do I need to apply?
The process of applying for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is simple and easy. To apply, you will need the following documents:
- Proof of full-time student status: This can be in the form of a student identification card or a letter of enrollment. It is important to note that there is no upper age limit for the card, but proof of full-time student status is required.
- Passport-sized photograph: You will need to provide a recent passport-sized photo for your application.
- Application form: You will need to fill out an application form, which can be done online or at a local ISIC office.
- Supporting documents: Depending on your specific situation, you may need to provide additional supporting documents. For example, if you are on a break from your studies, you may need to provide additional documentation to ensure you still qualify.
- Payment: The card issuance fee must be paid, and the cost may vary depending on the country.
It is important to ensure that you have all the necessary documents before submitting your application. If you are planning to get the card after travelling to your destination country, remember to bring all the required documents with you. The application process can be completed online or in person, and once your application is approved, you can receive your ISIC card either by delivery or by picking it up from the issuing centre.
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Where can I get an ISIC card?
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally accepted proof of full-time student status. It is available to full-time students at school, college, or university, with no upper age limit. The card provides access to thousands of worldwide discounts and the global student community.
To get an ISIC card, you can either apply online or visit a local ISIC office where the cards are issued. To apply online, you will need to upload the required documents and fill out the application form. This includes a digital photo of yourself and a scanned copy of your proof of full-time student status. The ISIC website allows you to select the country where you are a student to determine your eligibility for online application or whether you need to visit an office in person.
The ISIC card is typically valid for one calendar year from the date of issue. Online orders of physical cards may take 3 to 4 weeks to arrive, depending on the postal service in your country. Alternatively, you can order your card in the country you will be travelling to or select the virtual-only option. If you plan to get a card after arriving in your destination country, remember to bring all the necessary documents with you.
The ISIC Association, a non-profit organisation legally registered in Denmark, issues the cards. The card is recognised by academic institutions, student organisations, and governments in over 100 countries, with more than 5 million students using their ISIC card each year.
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How long does it take to get an ISIC card?
The time taken to get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) varies depending on the mode of application. Students usually prefer the online mode as it is hassle-free and takes less time. It typically takes 3–4 weeks to process an online application and deliver the card to you. This duration includes the time for printing the card and delivering it via standard post.
If you need the card sooner, you can visit a local ISIC issuing office to purchase it instantly. These offices are located worldwide, but you must ensure that there is one close to where you live. When visiting an issuing office, remember to carry all the necessary documents to prove your student status and identity, as well as a recent passport-sized photograph of yourself.
The ISIC card is a valuable tool for international students, offering proof of full-time student status and access to numerous student discounts both at home and abroad. It is always better to get the ISIC card issued well in advance so that you have time to make any necessary changes. The card is valid for one full calendar year from the date of issue, so it is important to ensure there is enough time for delivery before you travel or study abroad.
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What are the benefits of an ISIC card?
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally recognised proof of full-time student status, with recognition in academic institutions, student organisations, and governments in over 100 countries. The card is issued in over 130 countries and provides access to a global student community, along with numerous other benefits.
The ISIC card offers students thousands of discounts and benefits worldwide. These include discounts on flights, accommodation, food, shopping, international phone calls, educational courses, and software. The card is particularly useful for students who plan to study abroad, as it is a convenient way to pay for expenses overseas. The card also allows students to save money on their daily life, as well as entertainment and travel.
The ISIC card is affordable, with issuance fees ranging from €4 to €25, depending on the country. The card is valid for one full calendar year from the date of issue and can be applied for online or purchased at a local ISIC office. To apply, students must provide a digital photo, proof of full-time student status, and proof of identity.
Overall, the ISIC card is a valuable investment for full-time students, offering a range of discounts and benefits that can enhance their student experience, both at home and abroad. With its wide recognition and range of benefits, the ISIC card is a useful tool for students to save money and access a global student community.
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Frequently asked questions
ISIC stands for International Student Identity Card. It is the only internationally accepted student identity card and provides student status verification, thousands of discounts worldwide, and access to the global student community.
Any full-time student at school, college, or university is eligible for the ISIC card.
You can apply for the card by visiting the ISIC website and selecting the country where you are a student. You may be eligible to apply online or may need to visit a local ISIC office.
You will need to provide a digital photo of yourself, proof of full-time student status, and proof of identity (like a passport or driver's license).
