What is a USI?
A USI is a reference number made up of numbers and letters, that is unique to you.
It allows you to create a secure online record of all or any nationally recognised training that you complete.
You’ll only ever need to create one USI account, it will be yours for life.
Who needs a USI?
If you’re doing a certificate, diploma, apprenticeship, traineeship, or VET, even if you’re doing your VET at school, you’ll need a USI.
You can also record any courses you complete such as first aid.
If you don’t have a USI, then you won’t receive your qualification or statement of attainment.
Your USI gives you access to a secure online record of the training you have done.
You could use it to produce a comprehensive transcript of your training, which could be handy when you’re applying for work, seeking a credit transfer between Uni’s, Colleges or other education institutions, or if you have to demonstrate pre-requisites when you’re applying to do further training.
After high school if you’re planning on going to university, TAFE or completing any other nationally recognised training, you’ll need a USI. Without one, you won’t get Commonwealth financial assistance that you’re eligible for, or your qualification, or a statement of attainment.
Still unsure if you need a USI
These days it’s safe to assume that you will probably need a USI and go ahead and get one (it only takes 5 minutes).
If you’re thinking about doing a course or a qualification, but you still don’t know if you need a USI, you can check if your course appears on training.gov.au. If it does, then you’ll definitely be needing a USI.
You can also check with your training provider, they’ll be able to tell you if you need a USI or not. And if you apply without asking you may get to a section of your application where you’re required to provide your USI and you won’t be able to enrol without one.
Nationally recognised training is any programme of training that will give you vocational qualifications and credentials that are recognised across Australia. For example a public (e.g. TAFE) or private (college) training organisation, completing an apprenticeship, certificate or diploma course.
If you’re not asked for a USI when applying for training, then it could be that the provider is not an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) or the qualification is not nationally recognised. If that’s the case you might like to do a bit more research before enrolling on the course, or paying for it.
You’ll need a USI for uni too
New students enrolling into higher education courses will now need a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to be eligible for a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) and Commonwealth financial assistance (HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, OS-HELP, SA-HELP).
From 1 January 2023, all higher education students, including anyone who started their course before 2021, must have a USI in order to graduate and receive their award.
How to create your USI
Step 1: Go to https://www.usi.gov.au/ and click on the the Student section
Step 2: Select “Create my USI”
Step 3: Choose if you’ll create your USI using ID or a Digital Identity
Step 4: Click on Create USI
Step 5: Agree to the Terms and Conditions
Step 6: Provide evidence of your identity
Step 7: Enter your personal details – first name, middle name(s), and surname (as they appear on your ID or birth certificate). Enter your Date of birth, Country of birth and Town / City where you were born. (If you’re not sure, check on your birth certificate or in your passport).
Step 8: You’ll then have to enter your contact details including an email address, mobile number and postal address.
Step 9: Enter details of your ID you’ll use to prove you are who you say you are.
- The USI Registry System will check and confirm your identity using the ‘Documentation Verification Service’ (DVS).
Step 10: Choose a Password. (Make sure you use the guidelines shown on the right hand side of the screen) And make sure you keep a record of the password you use. Confirm your password.
Select a few security questions (choose one’s you’ll always remember the answer to). And enter the answers. These will be used if you lose your password but need to access your account.
Once you’ve done all that, your USI should be displayed on the screen. Make a note of it somewhere safe – you’ll also receive an email / SMS / letter with the details (depending on the contact information you provided). So check to make sure & save it somewhere for reference.