Apple’s Student ID system just landed in Australia

A student ID card on iPhone and Apple Watch

Australia’s Monash University has switched on the service so students can use digital IDs in their Apple and Google Wallet to replace student ID cards. Students can open doors, enter buildings, access transport, and make purchases using their devices.

Apple’s Student ID system just landed in Australia

This is supported by mobile credentials provider, Transact, which supports both Apple and Google’s platforms for ID. It means students and faculty can use Watch, iPhone, or android to get around campus.

“Monash University prides itself on the early adoption and development of new user-convenient technologies and strives to continuously improve student and staff experiences. We’re proud to be at the forefront of a modern, more efficient way for students and staff to engage with our campus facilities and services,” says Peter Marshall, Chief Operating Officer, and Senior Vice-President at Monash University.

Student uses iPhone as room key

How it works

To set up the pass, Monash students and staff simply need to download the eAccounts app, authenticate with their university credentials, and then add to Apple Wallet on iPhone or Apple Watch, or Google Wallet on Android phones.

iPhone and Apple Watch users can also enable Express Mode, allowing them to access locations with just a tap without the need to unlock or even wake up their device. If an iPhone needs to be charged, users can still use their device to access campus facilities for up to five hours with Power Reserve.

To enable student IDs on Wallet, Apple works with industry leaders for campus credentials and mobile access, including Transact, CBORD, TouchNet, Atrium, HID Global, and Allegion.

Transact in Australia

“The new digital M-Pass stored in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet and enabled by Transact Mobile Credential enhances door access and contactless payment capabilities by putting student IDs right on student and staff’s mobile devices,” said Nancy Langer, CEO at Transact, the company handling this at Monash.

“Monash can issue the digital M-Pass remotely without the need to see students in-person or print physical cards, creating a safer, more cost-effective, and more environmentally friendly process.”

Apple began offering this system in October 2018 when it made it available across US universities, extending into Canada in 2021.

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