Normally, I wouldn't have needed to subscribe to the iOS Developer Program this early, but, unfortunately, to test an application on an Apple device I need to be able to create a provisioning certificate; more about this later.
Usually, apps can be tested in the simulator, but in my case I need access to the device's camera so I could check its barcode reading functionality. Subscriptions were listed at $99 p/year, but with conversion it was a bit cheaper; they don't do student discount, so I was pleased about that.
The registration process took a while as Apple like to ID you to ensure your name and details are accurate. I'm not sure if I'm happy about my full name being on the App Store, yet! After 24 hours, I was approved and the provisioning portal was enabled in my developer account.