The ISIC card has a longstanding reputation as a unique internationally accepted proof of bona-fide student status. This is reflected in the significant number of endorsements the card has received from recognized institutions and governments internationally. The growth of the ISIC card can in part be attributed to the support and engagement with such organizations as endorsements allow the ISIC Association to explore new opportunities for tangible cooperation and work together to support students worldwide.
Our Strategic Partners
UNESCO Endorsement
From the early beginnings of ISIC, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has been involved in ISIC, leading to an official endorsement in 1968 with UNESCO recognizing the ISIC card as the only internationally accepted proof of full-time student status and a unique document encouraging cultural exchange and international understanding.
In 1993 a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by the ISIC Association and UNESCO provided permission to include the UNESCO logo on the ISIC card. UNESCO and ISIC worked together on various initiatives including preferential access to World Heritage sites and joint promotions encouraging intercultural understanding.
UNWTO Affiliate Endorsement
Supported by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the ISIC Association was accepted as an UNWTO Affiliate Member in August 2013. The Affiliate Membership adds to the official profile of the ISIC card and distinction in the travel industry.
Other Global Endorsements
- AIESEC partnership: In 2012 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with AIESEC, the world’s largest student run organization, aimed at providing access to opportunities and experiences for students internationally. This global partnership has spurred local level arrangements for cooperation between ISIC and AIESEC chapters with Brazil, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Malaysia, Moldova, Pakistan, and the United States all signing individual agreements and introducing ISIC as the AIESEC membership card in recent years.
- IAU partnership: The ISIC Association was also appointed an Affiliate Member of the International Association of Universities (IAU) in 2012, providing opportunities for collaboration with over 630 internationally recognized universities.
- Hosteling International partnership: In 2013, the ISIC Association renewed its 1993 Memorandum of Understanding with Hosteling International (HI) enabling ISIC cardholders to gain increased access to 3,700 hostels worldwide, and additional member discounts within the HI network. The Memorandum of Understanding outlines joint opportunities for national Youth Hostel Associations and ISIC issuers to work together on a local level.
- EUA affiliate membership: The European University Association (EUA) represents more than 850 universities and national rectors’ conferences in 49 European countries. EUA plays a crucial role in the Bologna Process and in influencing EU policies on higher education, research, and innovation. Through continuous interaction with a range of other European and international organisations, EUA ensures that the independent voice of European universities is heard.
- ECCA membership: By becoming a member of European Campus Card Association, ISICA is securing its goal to become a major player in the field of student mobility, trusted student identification, and digitalization of education. ECCA membership puts ISICA closer to the providers of higher education institutions and campus card providers in Europe.
