Higher education students need a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to be eligible for a Commonwealth supported place (CSP), access Commonwealth financial assistance (HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP or OS-HELP), and graduate.
Students seeking Commonwealth support for the first time will be required to provide their USI on their electronic Commonwealth assistance form (eCAF).
Applying for a USI is fast and free, and you keep the same USI for life. You need one form of verifiable identification such as a birth certificate, passport or drivers licence, and can apply through the USI website.
If you have previously undertaken nationally recognised vocational education and training (VET), you will already have a USI. Don’t create another one. Visit the USI website to find your USI.
The USI initiative is being used to strengthen the integrity and richness of data available to help improve education policy, programs and pathways in Australia.
Refer to the USI website for further student information on the USI in higher education.
Information for education providers
Higher education providers can read more on the USI webpage, Managing USIs in higher education
Announcements
Important Information in relation to USIs and international students - 31 January 2023