Your ultimate uide to OSHC in Australia

OSHC stands for Overseas Student Health Cover. It’s health insurance designed specifically for international students studying in Australia.

Unlike some countries, OSHC isn’t optional. The Australian Government requires all international students to have valid OSHC for the entire duration of their student visa.

Think of it as your safety net - helping cover medical costs while you’re living and studying overseas.

Australia has excellent healthcare, but it can be expensive without insurance.

Whether it’s a doctor visit for a flu, a prescription, or an unexpected hospital stay, costs can add up quickly. OSHC helps reduce those costs so you can focus on your studies - not medical bills.

OSHC is important because:

• It’s a student visa requirement

• It helps cover medical and hospital costs

• It gives peace of mind to you and your family back home

You might not need it often -but when you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.

Most OSHC policies offer similar core benefits, with small differences depending on the provider.

Typically covered:

• Visits to a doctor (GP)

• Treatment in public & private hospitals

• Emergency treatment (public hospitals only)

• Emergency ambulance services

• Some prescription medicines

Usually not included:

• Dental and optical care

• Physiotherapy and allied health services

• Cosmetic or elective treatments

If you want extra cover for things like dental or vision, many providers offer optional add‑ons.

Australia has a few trusted OSHC providers approved by the government, including:

• AHM

• Allianz Care Australia

• Bupa Australia

• Medibank

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All of them meet visa requirements. The right choice often comes down to price, claim process, hospital network, and extra benefits.

OSHC costs depend on:

• How long your course is

• Whether you need single, couple, or family cover

• The provider you choose

As a general guide, most students pay around AUD $500–$800 per year for basic single cover.

It’s an essential part of your study budget and an investment in your wellbeing.

This part is important.

You’ll need OSHC before you apply for your student visa. Your policy should:

• Start on the intended date of arrival into Australia which can be up to 4 weeks prior to the course commencement date

• Cover your entire stay, including course duration. Learn more about the required length of your OSHC post your studies here

Some universities include OSHC in their offer letters, but you’re usually free to choose your own provider, as long as it meets visa requirements.

Using OSHC is simple, even if you’ve never had health insurance before.

Usually:

1. You visit a doctor (GP)

2. Show your OSHC card or policy details

3. Either:

   • Pay upfront and claim later, or

   • The clinic bills your insurer directly

Most OSHC providers also have mobile apps where you can:

• Submit claims

• Check your coverage

• Find nearby doctors and hospitals

💡 Tip: Majority of the OSHC providers have a ‘preferred provider’ list where student can choose a doctor that bulk bills (where most or all costs are covered on the spot), speaks their language or preferred gender.

Choosing OSHC doesn’t have to be confusing - especially when you’re already managing applications, visas, accommodation, and travel.

That’s where IDP Student Essentials can help by guiding you through your options and helping you choose health cover that meets visa requirements and suits your study plans in Australia.

We help you:

• Compare OSHC plans easily without digging through fine print

• Understand what’s covered and what fits your budget

• Choose a visa‑compliant health cover with confidence

• Get support from IDP counsellors if you need extra help

Best of all, OSHC can be sorted alongside other essentials like banking, accommodation, and SIM cards, so everything’s taken care of before you go.

Less stress, fewer tabs open, and one less thing to worry about!