A membership category indicates what kind of APOA membership you have. For instance those with a lifetime subscription are considered Life Fellows. Those who are members through their national federation are Federation fellows. 

Subscriptions are what entitles you to the benefits of membership. These benefits are numerous and specific to each subscription and can be found by clicking on a subscription. But in general they grant access to restricted content, give access to discounted rates and allow sign up to exclusive events. 

Subscriptions are typically either for a year or for life but can have different lengths. They also typically charge a fee, although some subscriptions are granted through other means, such as membership to a national Federation. You can learn more about subscriptions and view all your subscription options by clicking here.