What is OSHC?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory health insurance for all international students studying in Australia on a Student Visa (subclass 500). It’s not optional, without OSHC, your visa application will be rejected.
OSHC covers hospital treatment, doctor visits, ambulance services, and some prescription medications. Think of it as your ticket to Australia’s healthcare system.
The 5 Approved Providers
Only five insurers are licensed by the Australian government to offer OSHC:
- Medibank: Largest provider, wide hospital network
- Bupa: Popular with universities, strong partnerships
- Allianz Care: Competitive pricing, 24/7 support
- ahm: Budget-friendly (owned by Medibank)
- nib: Best digital experience, app-based claims
All five offer similar base coverage. The main differences are price, university partnerships, and digital tools.
How Much Does OSHC Cost?
For a single student, expect to pay AUD 550–650 per year (roughly AUD 45–55/month). Prices vary slightly between providers and may change annually.
- Single: AUD 550–650/year
- Couple: AUD 2,800–3,200/year
- Family: AUD 4,500–5,500/year
Pro tip: Many universities have preferred OSHC providers with discounted rates. Check with your university before purchasing independently.
What Does OSHC Cover?
✅ Hospital accommodation and treatment ✅ Doctor (GP) and specialist visits ✅ Pathology and diagnostic imaging ✅ Ambulance services ✅ Some prescription medicines (PBS-listed)
❌ Dental care (requires extras cover) ❌ Optical/glasses (requires extras cover) ❌ Physiotherapy (requires extras cover) ❌ Pre-existing conditions (12-month wait)
Step-by-Step: Getting Your OSHC
- Compare providers: Check prices and your university’s preferred partner
- Purchase online: Buy for your entire visa duration
- Get confirmation: You’ll receive a membership number and confirmation letter
- Apply for visa: Include OSHC proof in your Visa 500 application
- Arrive and activate: Register with a local GP, download the provider app
Tips for Saving Money
- Use bulk-billing GPs: they charge the insurer directly, so you pay nothing
- Download your provider’s app for easy claiming
- Consider extras cover only if you need dental or optical regularly
- Check for university discounts before buying
Common Questions
Can I arrive without OSHC? No. You must have OSHC arranged before your visa is granted.
Can I switch providers? Yes, during your stay. The new provider needs proof of your previous cover.
What about the Medicare levy? International students don’t pay the Medicare levy and can’t access Medicare. OSHC is your alternative.
OSHC is straightforward once you understand the basics. Choose a provider, buy your cover, and focus on enjoying your Australian study experience.
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