Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in Australia

What is OSHC?

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a health insurance policy designed specifically for international students studying in Australia. It is a mandatory requirement for all international students on a student visa, ensuring that you have access to essential medical services during your stay.

Why Do You Need OSHC?

As an international student, your health and well-being are a priority. OSHC provides you with peace of mind by covering the cost of medical treatments, hospital visits, ambulance services, and some prescription medications. This insurance is a requirement by the Australian Government for obtaining a student visa, making it an essential part of your study journey.

What Does OSHC Cover?

• Doctor Visits: Visits to general practitioners (GPs) and specialists for consultations.
• Hospital Treatments: Inpatient care, surgeries, and medical procedures while in hospital.
• Ambulance Services: Some OSHC providers include coverage for ambulance transport in an emergency.
• Prescription Medications: Partial coverage for medications prescribed by a doctor (depending on your OSHC provider).
• Emergency Health Care: If you are involved in an accident or have an urgent health condition, OSHC will ensure you receive immediate care.

How Does OSHC Work?

OSHC works by providing financial coverage for necessary medical services, helping you avoid high out-of-pocket costs. You can visit any healthcare provider, and most doctors and hospitals will directly bill your OSHC provider. For some treatments, you may need to pay upfront and claim reimbursement.

OSHC Providers in Australia

There are several trusted OSHC providers that offer tailored plans for international students. Some of the leading providers include:

• Medibank
• Bupa
• Allianz Care
• NIB

Each provider offers different coverage options, so it's important to compare plans to find the best one for your needs.

How to Apply for OSHC

You can apply for OSHC before arriving in Australia. Your university may even provide a list of approved providers. Once you’ve chosen your OSHC provider, you can sign up online, receive your policy documents, and use the insurance for all your medical needs while studying in Australia.

Costs of OSHC

The cost of OSHC varies depending on your provider and the length of your stay. On average, the annual cost ranges between AUD 500 and AUD 800. Be sure to check with your provider for an accurate quote and make sure your coverage matches the duration of your student visa.

Important Exclusions

While OSHC covers essential medical services, it does not cover:

• Dental Care
• Optical Services
• Physiotherapy
• Cosmetic Surgery

These services are typically excluded, so you may want to consider additional private insurance to cover these areas.

How to Renew Your OSHC

OSHC coverage is valid for the duration of your student visa. If you extend your stay, you will need to renew your OSHC policy. Contact your provider to ensure continuous coverage throughout your studies.

Need More Information?

Have questions about OSHC? Our team is here to assist you with choosing the right plan, understanding your coverage, and ensuring you meet the visa requirements. Contact us today to get started with your OSHC coverage and stay healthy while studying in Australia.

View OSHC Prices

You can easily compare OSHC prices and get personalized quotes based on your stay duration by visiting the official OSHC Australia website. For more details, visit OSHC Australia.