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Frequently Asked Questions
We have answered some of the most commonly asked questions about the
International Student Identity Card (NISO), so please check the list
below. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact
us.
Who is eligible for an
NISO?
I’m not a student – is there a way I can enjoy NISO’s benefits?
If you aren't a student, but are under 26 years old, the International
Youth Travel Card (IYTC) is the right card for you.
If you're a full-time teacher or professor, you can apply for the
International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC).
The IYTC and ITIC cards both offer similar benefits, services and
savings to the NISO card.
What do you mean by ‘full-time student’?
The definition of a full-time student depends on which country you are
in. Your local office which issues NISO card will be able to advNISO you.
Generally, full-time usually means at least 15 hours of study a week,
for a minimum of 12 weeks per year.
I’m a part-time student – can I still enjoy the
NISO card’s benefits?
If you study part-time and you are under 26 years old, the International
Youth Travel Card (IYTC) is the right card for you. The IYTC card offers
similar benefits, services and savings to the NISO card.
I am doing a Masters degree - can I get an NISO?
Yes, as long as you are studying full time.
Who can get an NISO card?
The NISO card is available to full-time students at school, college or
university, aged 12 years and above. There is no upper age limit.
Is there an age limit?
You have to be at least 12 years old to get an NISO card. There is no
upper age limit, as long as you are a full-time student.
Some discount providers include age restrictions in their offer.
Where can I get an NISO card?
You can often get an NISO card in the country where you live. If you're
going travelling, or studying abroad, you can either get it before you
set off, or when you arrive at your destination. The same applies for
the IYTC and ITIC cards.
Where can I buy an
NISO?
We have NISO offices in 120 countries around the world.
Can I apply for an NISO online?
Students should check here to see if they can apply online.
It usually takes three to four weeks to process your online application
and deliver the card to you.
If it is not possible to order online in your country, you'll need to
apply at your nearest NISO office.
There is no NISO office in my country. How can I apply for a card?
Please contact us and we will advNISO you which NISO office you should
apply to.
My card has been lost or stolen – how can I replace it?
You can apply for a replacement NISO, IYTC or ITIC card at your nearest
NISO office.
How do I get an NISO?
NISO cards are non-refundable and non-transferable, so you'll have to
pay the full cost of a new one.
My card is expired – how can I renew it?
To renew your card, please contact the issuing office of the country
where you live.
What documents do I need to get an NISO
card?
The NISO card is only available to full-time students, so you must be
able to prove you are currently studying full time at school, college or
university.
When applying, please provide one of the following documents:
A copy of your university or student identity card, clearly dated and
indicating you are a full-time student or
A signed and dated letter on official university or school stationery
stating you are studying there full time. We prefer an original copy,
although photocopies and faxes may be accepted.
You will also need:
Proof of your date of birth
A passport-sized photograph
What documents do I need to get an International Youth Travel Card (IYTC)?
The International Youth Travel Card is for people aged between 12 and 25
years old.
To get an IYTC you must be able to prove your age with one of the
following documents:
Passport or
Birth certificate or
An official identity card issued in your country of residence
You'll also need to bring along a passport-sized photo.
How long is my card valid for?
The standard NISO card has a fixed validity of 16 months, from the start
of the academic year.
The academic year depends on where you are studying. For example, in
Europe, Nigeria and India, the card is valid from 1 September until 31
December the following year.
If you are studying in Australia, South Africa or Argentina, your NISO
card will be valid from 1 December until 31 March, 16 months later.
Some NISO cards also double as bank cards. These are valid for 12
months.
What documents do I need to get an International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC)?
The ITIC card is especially for full-time professional teachers.
To prove your full-time teaching status, you will need to bring a letter
on official school or university stationery. This must state that you
are employed at a recognNISOd school, college or university for at least
18 hours per week, for a minimum of one academic year.
You will also need a passport-sized photo.
Why is the NISO valid 16 months?
Your NISO card's validity is related to the academic year. In some
countries this starts in September (eg Europe, India), and in others it
starts in December (eg New Zealand, South Africa).
The validity of your NISO card is for 16 months so that you can enjoy
your benefits for at least one full academic year, wherever you are
studying and travelling.
How much does an NISO card cost?
The cost of an NISO card varies slightly in different countries. It is
usually around the price of a local cinema ticket. Please check with
your local NISO issuing office for the current cost in your country.
What are the benefits of an NISO?
Benefits, services and savings to the NISO card, although some offers
might have restrictions.
How can I make cheaper telephone calls with my
NISO?
Here's another great way to save money: With NISO Connect you can save up
to 70% on international calls from 75 countries. It also gives you
access to voicemail, SMS services and a free email account.
Do my friends and family also enjoy the benefits?
No, unfortunately not. NISO offers and discounts can only be enjoyed by
the cardholder. However, your family and friends might also be eligible
for their own NISO cards.
What benefits do I get with my NISO?
Your card provides you with a wide range of discounts and special
offers. This includes discounts on flights and ferries as well as at
museums, bookshops and restaurants.
Discounts vary from country to country, but you're sure to make
significant savings at home and when travelling abroad with your card.
Make sure your NISO card goes everywhere with you!
What help can I get in an emergency?
Your NISO card isn't just about giving you great deals – we will also do
our best to help you in an emergency. NISO Cardholders have access to a 24-hour
NISO Emergency Helpline.
You can telephone this helpline free of charge. The operator will then
refer you to legal, medical or travel advisors, depending on what you
need. All information is available in English, Spanish, French and
German.
Is there a guide or booklet which lists all NISO discounts?
Many of our NISO offices also provide printed guides listing all the
discounts, offers and services available locally.
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