The General Conference is the supreme decision-making body of the Association. It meets once every four years and it is on this occasion that all IAU Members elect the IAU President as well as the Administrative Board Members and sets the strategic direction for the Association. In addition to the Business sessions for Members, the General Conference also includes a thematic programme devoted to a specific topic. The General Conference is open to all higher education stakeholders, but only representatives of IAU Member institutions and organizations can take part in decision-making and elections.

The annual IAU International Conference is a unique global platform for higher education leaders to meet, network and exchange on the development of higher education. Hosted by IAU Members, the Conference moves around the world, from region to region giving the participants access to the local university atmosphere in the host country. Each conference is devoted to a specific topic of general concern to higher education around the world. The IAU Conference is open to IAU Members and other higher education leaders and experts.

Every two years, the IAU organises a Global Meeting of Associations (GMA) exclusively for leaders of national, regional and international associations/organisations of higher education institutions. The sessions offer a unique opportunity for these leaders to meet as a relatively small group of peers to exchange ideas and best practices, and to network. The GMAs precede the annual International Conference of the year in question. IAU provides secretarial support, organises meetings in different parts of the world, drafts the minutes and coordinates joint initiatives.

In 2021 and 2022, in response to the COVID-19 crisis, the IAU regularly convenes virtual Global Meetings of Associations. The GMAs offer a unique global forum for discussion and exchange, bringing together IAU Member University Associations and Organisations from around the world to discuss the challenges they face and opportunities seized. In addition, the meetings are a space for mutual learning which allows to boost international cooperation and develop joint initiatives of importance for the higher education sector and for society at large. The GMAs take place in different parts of the world on a rotational basis, facilitating better understanding and cooperation at regional and global level. They also take place online to facilitate access. The global dimension is key to developing a better future together.