Exemptions from USI
Student exemptions
Without a USI, you may not be able to graduate or receive a statement of attainment.
Students may make a request to the Student Identifiers Registrar to be exempt from having a USI. The Registrar may decide to grant, or refuse to grant, the request.
Before making a request for exemption to the Registrar, make sure you have considered the consequences. Without a USI you will not eligible for:
- financial assistance under the VET Student Loans Act 2016
- a USI VET transcript
- Commonwealth supported place
- HECS-HELP assistance, OS-HELP or FEE-HELP assistance
- SA-HELP assistance for student services and amenities fees.
Exemption requests will be considered and responded to by the Registrar in 10 business days.
If an exemption is granted, you will receive a letter from the Registrar to share with your education or training provider as proof of your exemption.
USI exemption
International student exemptions
Higher education international students are automatically exempt from needing a USI if they meet all the criteria below:
- they studied with an Australian education or training provider in Australia
- they didn’t access Commonwealth financial assistance for their studies
- they commenced their studies before 1 January 2023
- they’re currently offshore and won’t return to Australia.
If you meet all of the above criteria, do not submit a USI exemption request form.
International students who complete all of their studies outside of Australia through an Australian education or training provider do not need a USI to receive their award.
Find out more on how international students can create a USI.
USI exemption request form
Make sure you have considered the consequences before applying for an exemption using the form below.