Based on validation of experience, training, qualifications and other contributions, applicants are given one of five grades of membership.

Associates (ASyI), Members (MSyI) and Fellows (FSyI) are entitled to use post-nominals indicating their level of membership in the Institute.

[1] The Security Institute hosts regular seminars and social events as well as an annual conference.

[11] The award is named after George van Schalkwyk, an institute member killed in a helicopter accident in Afghanistan in July 2006.

It was initially awarded to the person who sat all six modules of the Certificate in Security Management examination in one day and achieved the highest score.

The award is named after Johns Aplin, a long-standing member, director and trustee of the International Institute of Security.