What is OSHC, And What are its Benefits?

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a health cover the Australian government designed to help international students cover their medical and hospital care while studying in Australia. This health cover is provided for international students who don't have access to the Australian Public Health Care - Medicare.

Basic OSHC provides coverage for doctor's visits, hospital treatments, limited pharmaceuticals, ambulance service, prosthetic devices, and access to private hospitals and day surgeries. Dental care, optical services and physiotherapy are not typically included in basic OSHC plans but may be available as part of more comprehensive coverage from some providers.

It is highly beneficial for international students to have health insurance in the long run. Hospital and medical expenses can be expensive; without health insurance, these costs can be challenging. Health insurance covers will make it more affordable and convenient for students without putting a strain on their finances. They will also provide a sense of security and safety for students.

 

Why is Health Cover Required?

The cost of OSHC will depend on the duration of your study in Australia, your visa and the number of people included in your policy. The Department of Health in Australia has approved the following health funds to offer OSHC:

Once you have chosen a plan, make sure that it is valid for the entirety of your stay in Australia. If you are extending your stay in Australia to continue your studies, you will need to purchase a new OSHC policy and ensure no lapse in coverage between the two policies.

 

Cost of Health Insurance in Australia

The cost of OSHC will depend on the duration of your study in Australia, your visa and the number of people included in your policy. The Department of Health in Australia has approved the following health funds to offer OSHC

1. ahm OSHC

2. Allianz Care Australia

3. Bupa

4. Medibank

5. nib

Before taking out an OSHC policy, you must research the various providers to ensure that the level of cover meets your needs. It can be helpful to compare policies from different providers to get the best benefits for the lowest cost.

As an international student, you will need to have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your studies. This also applies to your family members, such as partners and children under 18. The only exceptions are Belgian, Norwegian, and Swedish students.

Length and Level of Coverage

Certain requirements must be met to obtain a student visa for Australia. One of these is having continuous health insurance (OSHC) for your stay. When you purchase OSHC, you will need to pay the policy premium in full upfront, which will cover you for the length of your student visa.

If you are an international student without adequate health insurance, you risk your visa getting cancelled. You will need to obtain OSHC insurance for the duration of your student visa and renew your policy if you extend your stay. Be sure to ask about any waiting periods, exclusions, or other limitations on the plan

 

Ways to Apply for Health Insurance in Australia

There are two ways to get OSHC insurance while studying in Australia

1. Your education provider can purchase it for you. The university will schedule your first payment to the health fund provider, but you will be personally responsible for any future renewals.

2. You can choose your own OSHC-approved provider and pay for the insurance yourself.

Either way, you must maintain continuous coverage throughout your stay in Australia. This is especially important for students studying at two different institutions, as each may purchase insurance on the student's behalf.