Student Membership
The practice of animal behavior should be accessible to all. The IAABC is dedicated to supporting aspirant training and behavior professionals, we proudly offer one year of discounted membership to individuals who aspire to participate in this field and who are currently enrolled in a relevant course of study.
As a Student Member, you can benefit from many of the perks of IAABC membership, learn more in your field, connect with other members for guidance and feedback, and prepare to apply for IAABC credentials. As aspirant professionals, student members do not have organizational voting rights.
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Membership Criteria
Student membership is by application only and requires administrative review of the entrance requirements. The Student Membership is available for ONE YEAR, after which you may renew at the Supporting level. The minimum criteria needed to qualify for this membership include the following:
- Age 18+
- Agree to comply with LIMA and the Joint Standards of Practice
- Professional interest in animal behavior
- Currently enrolled in an academic or trade program related to animal training and behavior
Ready to join as a Student Member?
- Scanned student ID card for current year
- Unofficial transcript from academic institution
- Formal proof of enrollment from the academic institution on letterhead and including a signature
- Email directly from program administrator identifying you as a current student in good standing
- IAABC-provided attestation form signed by program administrator
Student Membership FAQs
Have a question that's not on the list? Please contact us.
What type of trade program qualifies me for student membership?
Any trade school program with a formal educational curriculum lasting at least 3 months and covering fundamental learning science as well as animal behavior change protocols for at least one species. The school must publicly promote a LIMA-based philosophy. Courses must be taught by an expert or experts in the field with an academic degree and/or professional credentials (see our CEU policy). Short-term webinars, seminars or workshops and informal mentorships do not qualify.
What type of academic program qualifies me for student membership?
Any academic program related to animal science, behavior, or learning including but not limited to: Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Animal Science, Animal Behavior, Zoology, Ethology, Veterinary Technology, Veterinary Science, Dairy, Equine or Poultry Science, Farm Management, etc. Wildlife Science, Biology, Marine Biology, Exotic Animal Training & Management, etc.
What does the application process look like?
You will fill out information on yourself according to our standard membership processes, then you will submit a statement of intent regarding your desire to participate in the profession of animal behavior as well as proof of enrollment in the requisite program. The Membership Director will review your application and approve, deny, or request more information within 5 business days.
I am a current member in a program that meets these qualifications. Can I get my dues refunded?
We are unable to offer any refunds due to the rollout of this program. However, you may apply for a Student Membership that will become active upon your next renewal. Please note that switching to student status will revoke your voting rights for the year and you may not qualify to serve on the Board of Directors as a Student Member. This program is primarily intended for individuals entering the field for the first time.
What type of proof of enrollment is needed?
Academic Program - any of the following:
I am self-taught. Can I apply?
The IAABC welcomes members and applicants for credentialing from all backgrounds. However, the Student Membership is intended specifically to extend support to individuals who have elected to become part of elevating the field of animal behavior by seeking education from a qualified third party. At this time the program is not open to all aspirant trainers and behavior consultants in general.
How do I know if my program qualifies?
If you would like to determine if your program qualifies before submitting an application, please email the IAABC membership director with the program information and an administrative contact. We are developing a list of pre-approved trade programs based on our first round of applicants.
My program is 4 years long. Can I keep my student membership the whole time?
No. The student membership is a discounted limited one-year membership. You are welcome to renew as a Supporting Member if you would like to maintain your IAABC member benefits.
Can I become credentialed as a student member?
Yes. However, you will still technically be a student member in our system, so your voting rights and rights to serve in IAABC Board Leadership will not be enacted until you renew as a credentialed member the following year. If these are important to you and you plan to become credentialed in your first year, we recommend you join as a Supporting Member.
Refund Policy
Our refund policy is available HERE.