Leaving school
Choosing a career or study pathway
When your child leaves school, they can:
- continue to study at university or a vocational education and training (VET) provider
- do an apprenticeship or traineeship
- work and start their career.
There are resources that can help them decide what to do after they leave school.
Continuing their studies
Find pathways for your child to continue their studies and get a qualification.
Get a USI
Your child needs a Unique Student Identifier (USI) if they’re:
- studying a nationally recognised VET course
- seeking a VET student loan
- seeking Commonwealth financial assistance for higher education, like a HELP loan or enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place
- graduating from university or a higher education provider.
Find out how to create a USI on the USI website.
Get a student payment
There are payments to help your child while they’re studying. Find out about financial help while studying.
Finding a job and starting a career
If your child wants to start working and build their career, there are payments and resources to help when they’re looking for work.
Deciding to leave school early
While most students complete year 12, some may decide to leave school earlier. When your child can leave school depends on their age.
Find out what age your child can leave school in your state or territory on the Youth Law Australia website.