International students and students studying overseas
International students who have completed all their study outside of Australia do not need a USI.
International students studying vocational education and training (VET) and higher education in Australia must have a USI.
A USI can only be created when you arrive in Australia and you cannot create a USI after you have left. International students who have not yet arrived in Australia can enrol to study without a USI.
International students:
- should contact your education or training provider prior to coming to Australia to let them know you will create a USI upon arrival
- can use your Australian visa and non-Australian passport to create a USI after you arrive
- need to share your USI with your education or training provider.
You may not be able to graduate or receive a statement of attainment if you leave Australia and have not created a USI. Only when in Australia using an Australian visa can you:
- create a USI
- update your personal details on your USI.
Your Australian visa cannot be used to create a USI or update your personal details once you have left Australia.
USI requirements
Learn when and how to create a USI if you are doing all or part of your studies in Australia.
Exemptions from USI
In some circumstances international higher education students can be exempt from needing a USI.
Identification requirements
Find out what ID international students must have to apply for a USI.
Translating and Interpreting Service
TIS National provides immediate phone interpreting as well as pre-booked phone interpreting, for the cost of a local call for a person or organisation in Australia who needs an interpreter.
Contact us
You can contact us while in Australia or overseas.