International students and students studying overseas

Information for international students including when to create a USI, exemptions, and translating services.

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. 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
  • use your Australian visa and non-Australian passport to create a USI after you arrive
  • advise your education or training provider of your USI.

Your Australian visa is only valid for use to create a USI for the time you are in Australia. It will validate once you enter the country and are cleared by Australian customs.

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.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connections to land, sea and communities. We pay our respects to them, their cultures and their Elders; past, present and emerging.