The International Antarctic Institute (IAI) is a global consortium of universities and research institutions dedicated to advancing international collaboration in Antarctic education and research. It is governed by the Council and operated by the Secretariat. Membership is defined by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) ( Template of MoU between IAI and members) between IAI and its members, which provides a common framework for collaboration among member institutions.

Member Benefits

Membership provides access to the following opportunities:

• IAI-approved courses, degree programs, and other Antarctic-related academic offerings from member institutions receive broader visibility and promotion.

• Recognition of IAI-approved courses for academic credit across member institutions.

• Tuition-free participation for students from other IAI members in approved courses.

• Opportunities for student and faculty exchange between member institutions.

• Access to a global network for professional development and knowledge sharing.

Member Obligations

In return, member institutions are expected to:

• Participate in the governance and development of IAI by engaging in IAI Council meetings and other official IAI activities;

• Offer Antarctic-related courses, degree programs, or other academic activities, and seek IAI approval for eligible offerings;

• Encourage and support students to enroll in IAI-approved teaching activities, and recognize the academic credits they earn;

• Promote and facilitate exchanges of faculty and students among IAI member institutions;

• Keep institutional information (including courses and personnel) up to date and propose new joint initiatives.

Eligibility for Membership

Prospective institutions should share the IAI’s mission and be willing to contribute to its goals. Ideal candidates have a strong foundation in Antarctic research and/or education and are prepared to offer, or plan to develop, Antarctic-related academic opportunities such as:

• Antarctic-focused courses within existing degree programs;

• Undergraduate and/or postgraduate degree programs, or micro-credentials, with an Antarctic emphasis;

• Short-term courses related to Antarctic education and research, e.g., summer/winter schools, field training schools;

• Internship or field experience opportunities in Antarctica or the Southern Ocean.

Membership Procedures

To become an IAI Member, an institution must submit a formal written application to the IAI Secretariat. Upon approval by the IAI Council, the institution will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the IAI.

Welcome to join IAI

A member may resign from IAI by providing written notice to the IAI Council through the IAI Secretariat. The IAI Council may also terminate the membership of a member that fails to meet its obligations. All terminations must follow the procedures set out in the MoU, including the required six months’ advance written notice.