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International student identity card (ISIC): the essentials explained
International student identity card (ISIC): the essentials explained
This guide covers what the ISIC is, its cost, benefits, and how to apply in the UK.
Let’s make a start:
What is the ISIC?
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a globally recognised proof of full-time student status, endorsed by UNESCO.
Established in 1953, the ISIC is available in over 130 countries, including the UK.
It offers students various discounts and benefits worldwide, helping them save money on travel, accommodation, shopping, and cultural experiences.
The card is available in physical and digital formats, with a mobile app allowing easy access to offers and services.
Who can get an ISIC?
In the UK, the ISIC is available to full-time students* aged 13 and over (there’s no upper age limit), enrolled in schools, colleges, universities, or professional qualification programmes.
*Full-time status generally means studying at least 15 hours per week for a minimum of three months per year.
How much does the ISIC cost?
The International Student Identity Card costs £12.
This fee covers the card issuance, which is valid for one year.
Benefits and discounts the ISIC offers
The ISIC provides students with a wide range of discounts and benefits across various categories:
- Education: Discounts on English courses, IELTS coaching, and access to academic e-books through Perlego.
- Shopping and Retail: Offers on electronics and personal care products from brands like Philips and Samsung.
- Food and Dining: Student discounts at participating outlets such as McDonald’s.
- Travel and Accommodation: Reduced fares with airlines like Emirates, bus travel discounts via FlixBus, and special rates on accommodation through Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Homestay.
- Transport: Discounts on rides with micro-mobility services like Dott.
Students can find and redeem current offers through the ISIC mobile app or the official ISIC UK website.
How to apply for the ISIC
Applying for an ISIC is straightforward.
Start by visiting the official ISIC UK website and selecting the option to get your card.
You’ll need to complete an online application form and upload the necessary documents, including proof of full-time student status, proof of date of birth, and a passport-sized photo.
After paying the £12 fee, you’ll receive your digital card via email immediately, with the option to order a physical card delivered to your address within 7–10 working days.
ISIC photo requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Photo type | Recent, clear headshot |
| Face visibility | Full face visible, neutral expression |
| Background | Plain, light-coloured |
| Glasses | Allowed if no glare and eyes visible |
| Headwear | Only for religious reasons |
| Size | Typically 35mm x 45mm (passport size) |
For convenience and guaranteed compliance, you can use our app (PhotoAiD for iOS or PhotoAiD for Android) to create your ISIC photo from home.
We’ll ensure your photo meets all official requirements, helping avoid application delays.
How do our mobile and web apps work?
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Find out just how simple it can be!
Take or upload a photo
Use a photo you already have or take a new one. We'll double-check it and make sure it passes all compliance tests.
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Our AI system will crop, resize, and adjust the background of your image.
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Sources:
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Frequently asked questions
The ISIC is a student ID accepted around the world. It proves you're a full-time student and gives you discounts on travel, shopping, accommodation, and more—both in the UK and abroad.
If you’re 13 or older and studying full-time at a school, college, university, or on a professional course in the UK, you can apply. There’s no maximum age.
The ISIC costs £12 and lasts for one year. You’ll get both a physical card and a digital version you can use in the ISIC app.
You can save on:
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Education (like courses and e-books)
-
Shopping (electronics, personal care)
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Food (e.g., McDonald’s)
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Travel (flights, buses, and more)
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Accommodation and transport services (like e-scooters)
Go to the official ISIC UK website. You’ll need to:
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Show proof you're a full-time student
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Upload a passport-style photo
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Share your date of birth
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Pay the £12 fee
Yes. Once your application is approved, you’ll get a digital card by email and in the ISIC app straight away.
Your photo should:
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Be recent, clear, and taken against a plain light background
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Show your face fully with no glare if you wear glasses
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Not include headwear—unless worn for religious reasons
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Be 35mm by 45mm in size
The digital card is ready as soon as your application is approved. Physical cards usually arrive in seven to 10 working days, but it can take up to 21 days.
It’s valid for 12 months from the day it’s issued. You’ll get a reminder before it expires.
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