The identification card that allows you to manage your academic and/or financial affairs. It is mandatory and free of charge
The Student Card is essential for your day-to-day life at IPLUSO. It is mandatory and free of charge and allows you to manage your academic and/or financial affairs.
This academic year, three types of student ID cards are available: the IU student ID card, the IPLUSO digital card, and the European Student Card.
1. Caixa IU Student Card
You can now apply for your Caixa IU Card entirely digitally
IPLUSO informs you that applications for the Caixa IU Student Card are now available.
The Caixa IU Card is a 3-in-1: Debit Card, Student Identification Card and Discount Card.
Portuguese students residing in Portugal can complete the entire application process digitally, without travelling or waiting in queues, directly through the Caixadirecta App.
Before starting the application, please make sure that you have authorised the transfer of your data to Caixa on the Applicant Portal. This step is required in order to apply for the Caixa IU Student Card and Caixa's solutions for university students through the Caixadirecta App.
How to obtain the Caixa IU Student Card
Digital application through the Caixadirecta App
1. Install the Caixadirecta App
Download the App from the App Store or Google Play and start the application process.
2. Select the "Open a new account" option
Open the App and select the "Open a new account" option to start the application for your card and university package.
3. Identify yourself using the Digital Mobile Key or Citizen Card
Choose the identification method you prefer to use to start the process. If you have an active Digital Mobile Key, the application process will be faster.
4. Confirm your identity
Follow the instructions displayed in the App and complete the required identity verification to proceed with the process.
5. Apply for the Caixa IU Card and University Package
Confirm your academic and personal details and complete the application for Caixa's university solution.
In-person application at a Caixa stand or branch
Alternatively, visit a Caixa stand at IPLUSO or the Caixa branch and remember to bring:
- Citizen Card or equivalent identification document with NIF;
- Proof of address, if you are not a Portuguese citizen.
Caixa Geral de Depósitos will be present at IPLUSO during the period indicated below:
Date: 21 to 23 September 2026
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Location: IPLUSO (Campo Grande)
Date: 21 to 25 September 2026
- Opening hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Location: IPLUSO (Expo)
Note: International students, as they do not have a Citizen Card or Digital Mobile Key, can only apply for the card in person.
Once these dates have passed, apply for your card at a CGD branch. For further details, visit Caixa Geral de Depósitos.
2. IPLUSO Digital Student Card
The IPLUSO Digital Student Card is a non-banking card that will be made available to all first-year students, i.e. new students (except students enrolled in individual curricular units / external students)
How can I access my Digital Student Card?
- The card is generated automatically;
- It will be available in the Ensino Lusófona App.
Essential for your day-to-day life at IPLUSO - Polytechnic Institute of Lusofonia, the identification card allows you to manage your academic and/or financial affairs. It is mandatory and free of charge.
If you have already completed your enrolment and have your Digital Mobile Key, apply now!
Note: Students enrolled in individual curricular units (referred to as external students) cannot apply for a Student Card, as they are not considered university students for any purpose. They can only apply once they meet the requirements for access to higher education, submit an application and become internal students.
3.European Student Card (ESC)
The European Student Card (ESC) is a common student identity for higher education students in Europe. With the ESC, students on exchange abroad can access the same services as local students, without having to apply for a new student card. These services range from university facilities, such as libraries and canteens, to online resources, discounts and public transport.
The European Student Card (ESC) is part of the European Student Card Initiative, supported by the Directorate-General for Education, Youth, Sport and Culture (DG EAC) of the European Commission. Its aim is to make student mobility simpler, more attractive and more enriching.