A USI is an individual education number that’s assigned to you for life. You’ll require a USI to undertake a university, TAFE or other national recognised training course with CQUniversity or any Australian institution.

There are some important benefits in obtaining a USI and the process to apply is quick and easy.

A USI is a requirement to:

  • Submit your application to study a TAFE or university course with CQU.
  • Be eligible to receive a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) and Commonwealth financial assistance such as HECS-HELP, FEE_HELP and OS-HELP (as a university student).
  • Look up an online record of your nationally recognised training in the form of a VET transcript should you need this for job applications, credit transfer or demonstrating pre-requisites for further training or study (as a TAFE student).
  • Graduate and receive your award, qualification or statement of attainment, after successfully completing your course.

A USI is a 10-digit reference number made up of numbers and letters issued by the Australian Government. It's free, stays with you for life and you can apply for a USI at any time. The process should take five minutes and you will need at least one form of valid identification to complete the process.

How to find your existing USI

If you think you might already have one, you can search for your existing USI.

International students

International students studying onshore can apply for a USI once they arrive in Australia and will require an Australian visa to do so. Find further information regarding USI requirements if you are studying outside Australia.

Now that you have your USI

Once you have your USI, you’re ready to apply and will be asked to provide the number as part of your application or in the student portal, MyCQU after enrolment and before the first census date.