ISIC Card Guide: How to Apply, Benefits & Eligibility Explained

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is proof of student status, and it is an internationally recognised gateway to exclusive discounts, academic benefits, and affordable travel.

From reduced fares on transport to savings on software, accommodation, and cultural experiences, the ISIC card offers practical value throughout your academic journey.

In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about the ISIC card: who is eligible, how to apply, what benefits it offers, and how it can help you make the most of your student years, both at home and abroad.

What is the ISIC Card?

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only student ID endorsed by UNESCO that is recognised worldwide. It serves as an official proof of full-time student status, accepted in over 130 countries.

Beyond identification, this card opens doors to a vast network of discounts, travel perks, cultural access, and educational benefits.

Key Features of the ISIC card:

• Global Recognition: Accepted internationally as proof of student status.
• Discounts and Offers: Access to thousands of discounts on travel, accommodation, food, entertainment, and more.
• Community Access: Connect with a global student community and student services.
• Validity: Typically valid for one year from the date of issue.
• Eligibility: Available to full-time students over the age of 12 enrolled in recognised educational institutions.

Who Can Apply for the ISIC Card?

Eligibility for the ISIC Student ID is straightforward:

• You must be a full-time student at a school, college, or university.
• There is no upper age limit for the ISIC card.
• Students aged 30 or under who are no longer full-time students may qualify for the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC), which offers similar benefits.

Proof of enrollment is required at the time of application to verify your student status.

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Benefits of the International Student Identity Card

Being a student often means looking for ways to make your money go further and that’s exactly where this card comes in.

Here’s how the ISIC card can make a real difference in your student life:

1. Internationally Recognised Student Identity

This card is the only globally accepted proof of full-time student status, endorsed by UNESCO. It eliminates the need for multiple documents and ensures your student identity is instantly recognised at universities, libraries, and businesses worldwide.

2. Substantial Savings on Everyday Expenses

Gain access to thousands of curated student discounts in over 130 countries. Save on essentials like food, shopping, technology, and entertainment, helping you manage your budget more effectively throughout your studies.

3. Affordable Travel and Accommodation

Enjoy exclusive deals on flights, trains, buses, and hostels. The ISIC card makes travel more accessible, letting you explore new destinations and return home for less, whether for study trips or leisure.

4. Enhanced Access to Culture and Learning

Benefit from reduced or free admission to museums, galleries, theatres, and cultural sites. This card encourages you to enrich your education beyond the classroom, making cultural experiences more affordable.

5. Added Safety and Security

Some cards include insurance features such as coverage for travel mishaps, theft, or medical emergencies. This provides peace of mind, especially for those studying or travelling abroad.

6. Seamless Payment and Currency Management

Select ISIC cards double as prepaid travel cards, allowing you to load and use multiple currencies securely. This feature minimises exchange hassles and helps you avoid unnecessary banking fees.

7. Instant Digital Access and Updates

With the ISIC mobile app, your student ID and discounts are always at your fingertips. Access digital offers, manage your card, and stay informed about new deals, all from your smartphone.

8. Connection to a Global Student Network

Join a worldwide community of students. This card not only opens doors to savings and services but also connects you to peer support, resources, and opportunities for international engagement.

ISIC Card Discounts Around the Globe

Category	Types of Discounts & Examples	Notable Countries
Travel	– Up to 50% off train, bus, and ferry tickets- 20% off Renfe trains (Spain, under 25)- 50% off Dialog bus tickets (Sri Lanka)- Up to 75% off Czech carriers (EU students)- Discounts with airlines (British Airways, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa)	Spain, Sri Lanka, Czech Republic
Accommodation	– Special rates at hostels (Hostelling International)- Discounts on budget hotels- Reduced rents or waived fees at student residences	University-affiliated housing
Food & Drink	– Discounts at fast-food chains (McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway, Pizza Hut)- Offers at cafes and local restaurants- Promotions at university-town outlets	Global chains, Local restaurants
Shopping	– Discounts on textbooks and online resources (Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud)- Savings at brands (H&M, Levi’s, Samsung, Lenovo, Apple, Nike)- Discounted e-learning platforms (Udemy, Coursera, Skillshare)	Global brands, Online platforms
Culture & Entertainment	– Free/discounted entry to 5,000+ museums, galleries, exhibitions- Reduced cinema, theatre, and concert tickets- Access to festivals and student events	Major cities
Public Transport	– Free or discounted city transport passes- Reduced fares/monthly passes for students- Cities like Vienna offer free/heavily discounted travel cards	Vienna, Australia, New Zealand, Europe

How to Apply For Your ISIC Student ID Card?

Applying for an ISIC student ID card is simple. You can complete it online or in person at an authorised ISIC issuing office.

1. Check Eligibility

You must be a full-time student at a recognised educational institution. Most applicants are aged 12 or above and must provide valid proof of enrolment.

2. Gather Required Documents

• Proof of student status (student ID card or official enrolment letter)
• Valid photo ID (passport or national ID)
• A recent passport-sized photograph (for the card)

3. Apply Online or In-Person

• Online: Visit the official ISIC website or an authorised partner portal. Complete the application form, upload your documents and photo, and pay the required fee. You can opt for a digital card or a physical card delivered by mail.
• In-Person: Some countries have local ISIC issuing offices or university partners where you can apply and receive your card on the spot.

4. Payment

Pay the card fee using a credit/debit card or other accepted payment methods. The ISIC card fee typically ranges from $10 to $25 USD, depending on your country and whether you choose a physical or digital card. Some universities or partner organisations may offer promotional rates or bundle the card with other student services.

5. Receive Your Card

After your application is verified, you’ll receive your ISIC card:

• Digital Card: Instantly via the ISIC app.
• Physical Card: Delivered by mail or collected in person, depending on your application method.

6. Start Using Your ISIC Card

Once activated, you can immediately access discounts and benefits worldwide. The card is valid for 12 months from the date of issue, regardless of when you apply.

Tips for Maximising Your ISIC Card Benefits

• Plan Ahead: Research discounts available in your destination country before travelling.
• Use the ISIC App: Many countries offer a mobile app to access digital cards and discount coupons.
• Combine with a Forex Card: If travelling abroad, consider an ISIC forex card to manage your money safely and conveniently.
• Keep Your Card Visible: Many discounts require you to show your ISIC card at the point of purchase.
• Renew Annually: The ISIC card is valid for one year, so renew it to continue enjoying benefits.

This card is your gateway to unlocking real savings and unique experiences that can transform your student journey.

Don’t miss out on the chance to reduce everyday expenses, travel smarter, and connect with a global community of students. Empower yourself with a tool designed to support your ambitions and make your student life more rewarding.

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FAQs

1. What makes the ISIC card unique compared to other student IDs?

The ISIC card is the only globally recognised student ID endorsed by UNESCO. It verifies full-time student status worldwide and unlocks thousands of exclusive discounts and benefits across 130+ countries.

2. Who is eligible to get an ISIC Card?

The ISIC Student ID card is available to anyone who is a full-time student aged 12 or older, enrolled at a recognised school, college, or university. There is no upper age limit as long as you maintain full-time student status and can provide valid proof of enrollment.

3. How long is the ISIC card valid, and can it be renewed?

The ISIC card is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It can be renewed annually as long as you remain a full-time student. Renewal requires submitting updated proof of enrollment.

4. How much does it cost to own an ISIC Card?

The ISIC card is not free of charge; its cost varies by country, typically ranging between approximately €4 and €25 (or equivalent local currency). The price is set based on each country’s purchasing power to ensure fairness, as determined by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). For example, in India, the ISIC card costs around INR 1,180, while in other countries it may be slightly higher or lower depending on local economic conditions.

5. How can a non-student get an ISIC Card?

If you are no longer a full-time student but are 30 years old or younger, you cannot get an ISIC student card, but you are eligible for the International Youth Travel Card (IYTC). The IYTC offers many of the same discounts and benefits as the ISIC card and serves as a youth identity card for travellers and young people under 30.