Student ID 2025: Benefits, Uses, and How to Get One Abroad

A student ID is not just for entering a campus. It can be your ticket to savings, access, and student perks while studying abroad. Many students still ask, “What is a student ID, and why do I need it abroad?” Simply put, your proof of being a student helps you unlock discounts and benefits worldwide.

In this blog, we’ll explain everything about student IDs. You will know how to get one abroad and how to use a student ID for a discount. Plus, a quick look at country-specific systems and a free downloadable checklist.

What Is a Student ID?

A student ID is an official card that proves you are enrolled at a school, college, or university. It usually includes your photo, name, student number, and validity date.

There are three main types of student IDs:

• University Student ID: Issued by your college or university for campus use.
• National Student Card: Some countries issue a national-level card for students.
• International Student ID (like ISIC): Recognized in over 130 countries and offers thousands of global discounts.

So when you’re asked what student ID is, think of it as your all-access pass to academic life, discounts, and credibility as a student anywhere in the world.

Top Benefits of Having a Student ID in 2025

Access to Student Discounts: One of the biggest perks is savings. You can use your student ID for a discount on:

• Transport passes (metro, train, or bus)
• Museum and event tickets
• Restaurants and cafes
• Clothing and gadget stores
• Travel, hostels, and flight tickets
• Software like Adobe, Canva, and Microsoft Office

Tip: Download Your Student ID To-Do List & Stay Ahead!

Proof of Student Status Worldwide: Your student ID acts as a valid proof when opening a student bank account, getting a SIM card, or applying for student housing abroad.

Travel Perks: Many airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa, offer special student fares if you show your ID at booking.

Digital Access: Your student ID also helps you access online discounts, e-learning subscriptions, and library memberships easily.

How to Use a Student ID for a Discount

Knowing how to use a student ID for a discount is the real trick to saving more. Here’s how:

1. Ask Before Paying: Always mention your student ID before checkout.
2. Keep Both Versions: Carry your physical and digital ID. Some stores scan it, others just check the photo.
3. Use Apps: Many ISIC or UNiDAYS offers can be redeemed directly through mobile apps.
4. Stack Offers: Combine your student discount with other promotions when allowed.
5. Renew Annually: Most student IDs expire yearly — renew it to keep the perks rolling.

How to Get a Student ID Abroad (Step-by-Step)

Here’s the process that works in almost every country:

Step	What to Do	Details
1	Complete university registration	You’ll get your local student ID after enrollment.
2	Gather documents	Passport, admission letter, and a passport-size photo.
3	Apply for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC)	Visit isic.org to apply online.
4	Pay the small fee	Around $10–$25, depending on the country.
5	Receive your ID	It may take 1–3 weeks; the digital version is available instantly.
6	Start using your discounts	Check local stores or apps for offers.

 

Country-Specific Guides to Student IDs

Australia

Every university issues a student ID card during O-Week or orientation.

You can use it for:

• Campus access and exams
• Public transport discounts (via concession cards)
• Student travel deals on airlines like Qantas and Virgin

Extra tip: Apply for an ISIC card to get discounts in over 130 countries.

Check out our Study in Australia Guide for full visa and cost breakdowns.

Canada

Canadian universities give you a student card when you register.

You can use it for:

• Discounted bus and metro passes (U-Pass)
• Student movie tickets and dining deals
• Savings on laptops, textbooks, and local gyms

Some provinces also have special student travel cards.

Get your international ISIC if you plan to visit the U.S. or Europe.

Explore our Canada Country Guide for scholarship and visa tips.

United Kingdom

UK students get their university ID within the first week.

You can also apply for a TOTUM card, the official UK student discount card, offering deals at hundreds of stores.

Common benefits:

• 30% off transport passes
• 10–50% off at retail stores
• Cheaper tickets for concerts and festivals

For more, download our free UK Study Guide.

United States

Universities in the U.S. issue photo student IDs used for campus entry, libraries, and student rates.

Benefits include:

• 10–20% discounts at Apple, Amazon, and software platforms
• Student fares with Delta and American Airlines
• Cheaper entry to museums and theme parks

Apply for an ISIC to enjoy discounts across borders while traveling.

Learn more in our USA Study Guide.

Ireland

Irish universities provide digital student cards used for travel discounts and campus services.

• Use your card for Irish Rail, Bus Éireann, and student SIM plans
• The TOTUM Ireland card is available for lifestyle discounts
• Get an ISIC if you plan to visit the UK or Europe

Get our free Ireland Study Guide for full details.

Bonus Tips for Students Abroad

Before you move abroad, download our Student ID Checklist to make sure you don’t miss any steps.

What’s inside:

• Required documents
• Where to apply
• Common deadlines
• Discount resources

Snag Your Free Student ID To-Do List Before You Miss Out.

GradSearch Tip

Use GradSearch to find courses and universities that suit you best. Then contact the team to get free advice on ready student support services, including on-campus ID setup, local bank assistance, and student discounts.

This saves you time and ensures you get all your student privileges from day one.

• Keep both physical and digital copies of your student ID.
• Always ask, “Do you offer a student discount?” It works more often than you think!
• Combine student offers with seasonal sales for maximum savings.
• Use your student email address for all sign-ups. It’s often enough for verification.
• Join local student unions; they sometimes issue separate discount cards.

Got questions about applying for your student ID or where to get discounts abroad?

Chat with our advisors on WhatsApp. We’ll walk you through every step of getting your ID and making the most of it.

FAQs About Student ID

What is a student ID, and why is it important?

It’s your official proof of being a student. You need it for campus access, exams, discounts, and travel offers.

How to use the student ID for a discount?

Show your ID at checkout or verify online using your student email or ISIC app.

Can international students get a student ID abroad?

Yes! Once you register at your host university, you’ll receive one automatically. You can also apply for an international ISIC card.

Do online students get student IDs?

Many online universities issue virtual IDs for library and software access.

Is there a cost for getting a student ID?

University IDs are usually free. International IDs like ISIC charge a small annual fee.

Rounding Up

Your student ID is a small card with huge power. From transport discounts to exclusive deals, it makes studying abroad much easier and cheaper. Remember, understanding what a student ID is and how to use a student ID for a discount can save you hundreds of dollars every year.

Before flying out, make sure to start your journey smart. Your student ID is the first step to unlocking the full study abroad experience.