Apply to join

The iSchools conduct ground-breaking research while also preparing the next generation of scholars, researchers and practitioners. The iSchools believe that expertise in all forms of information is required for progress in science, business, education, and culture. This expertise must include understanding of the uses and users of information, the nature of information itself, as well as information technologies and their applications. The iSchools have organized under this charter to pursue common objectives with a collective commitment of resources.

By becoming an iSchools member, your school’s leadership will join thought-leaders worldwide in shaping the teaching and practice of information studies and all related aspects of the field, now and into the future.

The iSchools organization has a place for information schools of all levels and capabilities. Our members range from newly emerging institutions to widely recognized research and teaching powerhouses. The iSchools organization has enjoyed many positive changes recently, and we look forward to many more. In 2018 the Organization adopted a new set of membership levels that better reflect the relationships that each of our members enjoy with the Organization. Thanks to a recent surge in membership, we now boast more than 100 schools worldwide. The state of our organization is strong, and we have our members to thank for this.

All information schools are invited to apply for membership using the application forms below.

Member benefits include the following:

Criteria for being recognized as an iSchool are not rigid, but members are expected to have substantial sponsored research activity, engagement in the training of future researchers (usually through an active, research-oriented doctoral program), and a commitment to progress in the information field.

iSchools memberships span five membership levels and also an Associate category, as defined below. Each new member is entitled to select the membership level that it feels best represents the level of support and leadership that it wishes to maintain within the organization. Levels are not assigned and should not be construed as a rating system.

Prospective members should indicate their desired membership level on their application. Schools are expected to enroll at the highest membership level in accordance with the size, resources and structural limitations of their schools. Schools are encouraged to move up in the membership hierarchy when appropriate, and may do so during the annual renewal period.

Membership levels: Corresponding annual dues are shown in USD.

Corporate Relationships

Corporate members presumably wish to join the iSchools to recognize the value of member programs and the influence of the iSchools in society at large. Three levels of corporate membership are recognized:

How to Apply

Institutions wishing to join the iSchools organization can download the appropriate application form below.

After completing the form, change the file name to include the name of your institution (VERY IMPORTANT) and email it directly to membership-applications@ischools.org.

Questions about applications can be directed to iSchools Executive Director Michael Seadle.

The Executive Committee intends to do rolling admission starting in June 2016 with each application taking approximately 45 days from date of submission.