Ibrahim Gardner
Being an international student comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities that can shape one's identity. Navigating a new educational system, adapting to a different culture, and managing the logistics of living in a foreign country can be transformative experiences. International students often develop a sense of resilience, open-mindedness, and independence as they tackle these challenges. Additionally, they gain access to new academic and social networks, which can broaden their perspectives and enhance their sense of global citizenship. With the availability of International Student Identity Cards (ISIC), they can also enjoy benefits and discounts worldwide, further enhancing their international student experience. This raises the question: does being an international student become an integral part of one's self-perception and identity?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To prove student status |
| Availability | Over 100 countries |
| Eligibility | Students over 12 years old enrolled in higher, tertiary, or full-time secondary education |
| Benefits | Discounts, special offers, and access to the global student community |
| Recognition | Endorsed by UNESCO, national governments, ministries of education and tourism, student organisations, and universities worldwide |
| Validity | 16 months, aligning with the academic year of the country of purchase |
| Cost | Varies by country, averaging €18 for the digital card |
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What You'll Learn
International Student Identity Cards (ISIC)
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a document that provides internationally recognised proof of student status. It is available to students in over 100 countries, with an estimated reach of 130 countries. The ISIC card was first created by students in 1953 and has since been endorsed by UNESCO and a wide range of national governments, ministries of education and tourism, student organisations, and universities worldwide.
The ISIC card is available to students in higher, tertiary, or full-time secondary education, with a minimum age requirement of 12 years. There is no upper age limit. The validity of the card is 16 months, aligning with the academic year of the country where it is purchased. The ISIC Association, a non-profit membership organisation registered in Denmark, is responsible for its distribution, promotion, and development. In each country, an ISIC Exclusive Representative holds the rights to issue the cards and manage the benefits and discounts available to cardholders.
The ISIC card provides access to a range of benefits and discounts globally, including travel, accommodation, entertainment, food and drink, culture, sports, and other services. These benefits are accessible through the ISIC mobile app, which allows users to discover discounts, view the latest news, and redeem limited vouchers. The app enables students to access their digital student card and explore the thousands of ISIC offers and services available worldwide.
Many schools issue ISIC cards on campus, or students can order them online and receive a virtual card with the option to request a printed version by mail. To order, students must provide proof of their student status and a digital photo. The ISIC card is not just a means of identification but also a tool that facilitates cultural exchange and international understanding, helping to make student life more affordable and enjoyable.
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Student discounts
Being an international student comes with its own set of challenges, and one of the most significant concerns is often the financial aspect. International students can take advantage of various student discounts and benefits to help ease the financial burden and make their stay abroad more enjoyable and affordable. One of the most widely recognised ways to access these discounts is by obtaining an International Student Identity Card (ISIC).
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
The ISIC is an internationally recognised proof of student status, providing access to a wide range of benefits and discounts in over 130 countries. The card is endorsed by UNESCO and offers discounts in areas such as travel, accommodation, entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and cultural institutions. The eligibility criteria include being a full-time student in higher, tertiary, or secondary education, with a minimum age requirement of 12 years and no upper age limit. The card is typically valid for 16 months, aligning with the academic year of the country where it is purchased.
International students can also take advantage of country-specific student discounts:
- United States: Amazon, Hulu, Spotify, and Apple Music offer student discounts. Prime Student offers a free six-month membership, and Audible provides a free audiobook. Additionally, college towns often have restaurants and stores offering student discounts with a valid student ID.
- Canada: Restaurants like Subway, Chipotle, Burger King, and McDonald's offer discounts. Clothing brands such as Roots, Eddie Bauer, and TOMS Shoes also provide student discounts. Students can also benefit from deals with phone companies like Optus, Shaw, and Best Buy.
- Australia: JB Hi-Fi, Australia's largest home entertainment store, offers discounts on electronics. The Iconic, a popular fashion destination, also provides student discounts and coupons for brands like Topshop and Levi's.
- United Kingdom: UniDays and Student Beans are popular sources of student discounts in the UK. Students can also benefit from discounts on flights, hotels, and tours through Student Universe. Many stores near college campuses, such as Banana Republic and Levi's, offer special pricing for students with a valid student ID.
- Europe: Students in Europe can take advantage of the Interrail ticket, which offers discounted travel across multiple countries. Additionally, many museums, cinemas, and car rental companies provide regular discounts for students.
Many major airlines offer substantial discounts for international students on flights, including Air India, which offers discounts of up to 25% on domestic and international flights, along with perks like enhanced baggage allowance and free date changes. It is important to review the specific rules and eligibility criteria for each airline, as they may vary.
In conclusion, international students can access a wide range of student discounts by leveraging tools like the ISIC card and taking advantage of country-specific and industry-specific discounts. These discounts can significantly ease the financial burden and enhance the overall experience of studying abroad.
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State ID requirements
While studying in the United States, it is highly recommended that international students carry some form of photo identification. This can be a driver's license, a passport, or a photo ID from their host or home country. A state ID is a photo identification document issued by the state government and is used primarily to prove identity and residency status. It is also accepted as proof of address and is required when boarding a plane or buying alcohol.
The process and requirements for obtaining a state ID are similar to those for obtaining a driver's license, but there are some differences. While a driver's license allows individuals to drive, get insurance, and obtain certain jobs, a state ID does not provide these benefits. However, a state ID is still necessary for international students to remain in the country legally and access various services. The specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a state ID may vary from state to state and can change over time, so it is essential to check the latest information for the relevant state.
To apply for a state ID, individuals typically need to visit the local bureau or division of motor vehicles. They will need to present various forms of identification and proof of residency, such as a passport, birth certificate, or other accepted documents. In some states, such as Illinois, a Social Security Number (SSN) is required for a state ID, while other states may issue IDs to those without SSNs. After submitting the required documentation and having their photo taken, individuals will receive a temporary ID, and the permanent ID will be mailed to them within a few weeks.
In addition to a state ID, international students may also receive a college or university ID card from their institution. This student ID card allows access to on-campus facilities and can also be used to obtain discounts at various businesses in college towns and big cities. While it is not mandatory to carry an ID in the United States, it is strongly advised to have one at all times for identification purposes and to avoid potential complications when accessing certain services or travelling.
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Student life
International students can benefit from various resources and communities that can help ease their transition into student life abroad. One such resource is the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), which is accepted worldwide and provides students with access to exclusive discounts on travel, products, services, and experiences. The ISIC card is designed to facilitate cross-cultural understanding and international exchange, allowing students to explore new countries, cultures, and languages at reduced rates. It is recognised by universities, academic institutions, student unions, governments, and ministries of education worldwide, making it a valuable tool for international students.
In addition to practical resources like the ISIC card, international students can also seek support from their host institutions. Many universities offer orientation programs, cultural integration workshops, language classes, and counselling services specifically tailored to the needs of international students. These programs can help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed academically and socially in their new environment.
Furthermore, international students can find community and support by connecting with fellow international students on campus. Student clubs and organisations that bring together students from similar cultural backgrounds or countries of origin can provide a sense of belonging and help ease feelings of isolation. These communities can also serve as a valuable network for navigating the challenges of student life, as peers can offer advice and share their own experiences.
Overall, the student life of an international student is a unique and transformative experience that can shape their identity and outlook. By embracing the opportunities and challenges that come with studying abroad, international students can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them, fostering a sense of global citizenship and cultural appreciation.
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International exchange
The ISIC card was first created by students in 1953 and has been endorsed by UNESCO since 1968. It is also endorsed by national governments, ministries of education and tourism, student organizations, and universities worldwide. The ISIC Association, a non-profit organization legally registered in Denmark, is responsible for the distribution, promotion, and development of the ISIC card in each country.
In addition to the ISIC card, international students can also benefit from their college or university ID cards. These ID cards allow students to access various facilities on campus, such as dining halls, fitness centres, and computer labs. They can also serve as discount cards around town and on campus, offering savings at stores, restaurants, and other local businesses.
The ISIC card plays a significant role in facilitating cultural exchange and international understanding. It encourages more students to undertake study abroad and provides them with access to a global student community. The card is not exclusive and is available to all bonafide students over the age of 12, regardless of their nationality, race, gender, or religion. This inclusivity fosters a sense of international community and makes the student experience more accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for students from diverse backgrounds.
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Frequently asked questions
The ISIC is an internationally accepted student identity card that allows students to prove their student status and avail discounts and special offers worldwide.
The ISIC provides thousands of discounts worldwide and access to the global student community. It is also recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as the only internationally accepted proof of full-time student status.
Students in higher, tertiary, or full-time secondary education, aged 12 or above, are eligible for the ISIC. There is no upper age limit for obtaining an ISIC card.
The ISIC card is available in over 100 countries. The ISIC Exclusive Representative in each country is responsible for ISIC card distribution, promotion, and development. The cost of the card varies by country but is usually affordable, and in some cases, free.
