About the IAU

Founded in 1950, under the auspices of UNESCO, the International Association of Universities (IAU) is the leading global association of higher education institutions and organisations from around the world. The IAU is an independent, non-governmental, membership organization. IAU Membership is open to higher education institutions (HEIs) and organisations.

As a global forum for leaders of institutions and associations, the IAU convenes and connects almost 600 Members from more than 120 countries to identify, reflect and act on common priorities. It acts as the global voice of higher education to a wide range of international and inter-governmental organizations, in particular to UNESCO. Members benefit from a wide range of services on a priority basis. The IAU works with a wide range other HE stakeholders, such as organisations, institutions, higher education authorities, policy and decision-makers, specialists, administrators, teachers, researchers, and students.

The IAU is an official partner of UNESCO (Associate status) and has been given special consultative status by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The IAU was granted the participatory status with the Council of Europe.

Vision

As the global voice of higher education, IAU will be the most influential and representative global association of diverse higher education institutions and their organisations, advocating for and advancing a dynamic leadership role for higher education in society. By promoting and enhancing the capacity of higher education to transform lives, build agency, connect diverse peoples, generate and disseminate new knowledge, create insights and find sustainable solutions to local and global challenges, we aim to contribute to peace and human development.

Mission

By articulating the fundamental values and principles that underpin education and the pursuit, dissemination and application of knowledge, the Association leads and advocates for the development of higher education policies and practices that respect diverse perspectives, promote social responsibility, and contribute to the development of a sustainable future.

IAU serves as a think tank and forum for the development of new approaches, the sharing of best practice and the undertaking of joint action, encouraging and facilitating innovation, mutual learning, and cooperation among higher education institutions around the world.

Membership

The IAU has four categories of Members: Institutions, Organisations, Affiliates, and Associates. Members have various rights and benefits. Each IAU membership category has a specific set of criteria and application process. The IAU unites about 600 Members (Institutions, Organisations, Affiliates, and Associates) from more than 120 countries. Learn more about IAU Membership and how to become a Member.