Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. However, international students are not eligible for government-funded healthcare. That’s why it is mandatory for overseas students to have proper health insurance throughout their stay in Australia — known as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
All international students studying in Australia are required to purchase OSHC. This insurance not only covers the student but also their dependents (such as a spouse or children), if they’re travelling with family.
You can either purchase OSHC directly from an approved insurance provider, or your educational institution can arrange the policy on your behalf. The most important thing is that your insurance stays active during your entire time in Australia.
The cost of OSHC depends on the type of plan you choose — whether it's for a single student, a couple, or a family. The minimum cost for a single student starts from AUD 452 per year.
There are five registered and government-approved health insurers that provide OSHC in Australia:
1. Australian Health Management (AHM) OSHC
2. Allianz Care Australia
3. BUPA Australia
4. Medibank Private
5. NIB OSHC
You can purchase your policy directly from their official websites.
A basic OSHC plan usually includes:
However, it does not cover things like eye care, dental treatment, or physiotherapy. If you need those services, you can choose a more comprehensive OSHC plan.
Keep in mind, OSHC does not cover 100% of all medical expenses, but it does cover a large portion, depending on your plan.
When applying for a student visa for Australia, you must show proof of your health insurance. You can provide a copy of your insurance policy or insurance card to confirm that your coverage is in place.
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