USI in higher education

Domestic Students

From 1 January 2023, all higher education students, including those who commenced prior to 2021, must have a USI to:

• be eligible for a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) and Commonwealth financial assistance (HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, OS-HELP, SA-HELP) 
• to graduate and receive their award.

International Students

International students who commenced study after 1 January 2023 and will complete all or some of their studies in Australia, must have a USI unless granted an exemption. 

International students do not require a USI if they completed all their study outside of Australia.
International higher education students are automatically exempt from needing a USI if they commenced their study before 1 January 2023 and are not in Australia to receive their award. 

Students: refer to the International students and students studying overseas page for more information.  

Education or training providers: more information can be found at International Students – Exemptions from the USI.

What do students need to do? 

Students who are commencing study should: 

• check if they already have a USI (from previous vocational education or training) 
• get a USI as soon as possible 
• provide their USI to their Tertiary Admissions Centre or Higher Education Provider when requested. 

Read more in our student FAQs.