Membership
Who Can Join the IST?
Membership of the Institute of Science and Technology (IST) is open to individuals at all career stages, including students, apprentices, specialists, technical experts, and managerial staff. Our members work across a wide variety of sectors, including science, engineering, digital technologies, AI, media, creative industries and the arts, within local authorities, schools, further and higher education, healthcare, research and analytical services, government departments, and more – both in the UK and internationally.
Membership Grades
The IST offers four grades of membership, Affiliate, Assocate, Member and Fellow. Applicants do not need to apply for a specific grade; instead, your qualifications and experience will guide the appropriate grade offered by the Institute. Please note that Fellowship is an elected grade and is not open to individuals who are not currently members (see specific criteria below for Fellowship applications).
Applications for general membership can be made by email to the IST office (membership@istonline.org.uk) using the standard application form which is available for download below. The form must be accompanied by a copy of each relevant certificate, diploma etc (scanned copies sent electronically are accepted). When an application has been accepted, the applicant will be notified of the grade offered, at which time a full subscription payment will be required (within one month of notification). After the subscription has been received the new member’s name will be added to the Register of Members and a Certificate and will be sent.
Membership Grades – more information
Affiliate
Affiliate membership is open to individuals aged 16+ who are working or studying in STEAMM fields, including students, apprentices, and those with under two years of professional experience. Affiliate members have full access to IST support and resources, and may apply for a membership upgrade upon approved development.
Affiliate Subscription Fee:
£10.00 per annum
Associate
Associate membership is open to individuals holds an approved qualification in a STEAMM discipline at Level 2 (or abaove), plus a minimum of 2 years relevant work experience. Associate members have full access to IST support and resources, and may apply for a membership upgrade upon approved development.
Associate Subscription Fee:
£44.00 per annum
Member
Member grade is open to individuals normally holding an approved qualification in a STEAMM discipline at Level 3 (or abaove), plus a minimum of 3-4 years relevant work experience. Professional registration at earlt career level would also be accepted as qualification for Member grade. Members have full access to IST support and resources, and may apply for a membership upgrade upon approved development.
Member Subscription Fee:
£57.00 per annum
Fellow
Fellowship recognises exceptional professional achievement and significant contributions to the relevant field and/or technical community . Candidates must demonstrate substantial experience and notable accomplishments or management expertise.
Fellow Subscription Fee:
£71.00 per annum
Please Note:
1. IST professional membership subscriptions of employees are eligible for UK tax relief, under Section 344 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Claims need to be made by members individually directly via HMRC.
2. Previous members whose membership may have lapsed can apply for reinstatement by contacting memberships@istonline.org.uk.
3. All applications are subject to review; the IST reserves the right to decline any membership application.
Please note that all IST members (at all grades) are bound by the IST’s Code of Conduct, Data Protection/Privacy Policy and EDI Declaration:
Why join the IST?
Becoming a member means joining a vibrant and longstanding professional community. The IST supports your development by enhancing your:
Career & Professional Development
- Information about structured career pathways opportunities, mentoring, and accreditation
- Recognition of professional competence and achievements via Professional Registration in AI, creative technolgies and STEMM
- Support for personal and continuing professional development (PPD / CPD)
Learning & Knowledge Sharing
- Opportunities to attend and contribute to training ciourses, conferences, workshops, and webinars
- Subscription to industry journals, newsletters, and updates
- Shared expertise across a network of professionals
Networking & Collaboration
- Connect with peers across diverse AI, Creative and STEMM disciplines
- Collaborate on research, innovation, and knowledge exchange
- Invitations to panels, special interest groups, and events
Credibility & Recognition
- Use of professional designations or post-nominals, both for membership and Professional Registration
- Enhancement of your CV and public profile
- Demonstration of commitment to ethical and professional standards
Employment & Advocacy
- Increased employability through recognised affiliation
- Advocacy for your profession at national and international levels
- Support and resources tailored to your specific sector
