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.