What is OSHC? | IDP Vietnam

OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is a type of health insurance exclusively for international students in Australia. It is a type of health insurance required by the Australian government for all international students (and their dependents, if applicable). OSHC helps cover part or all of the cost of medical examinations, medical treatments, medications, and other healthcare services during your stay, in accordance with visa requirements.

OSHC is extremely important for international students in Australia for the following reasons:

• It is a mandatory requirement to apply for an Australian student visa:

  The Australian Government stipulates that all international students must have a valid OSHC for the entire duration of their study and stay in Australia. Without OSHC, your visa may be denied, canceled, or you will have difficulty applying for a visa extension later. OSHC ensures you are in compliance with Australia's immigration laws.

• Minimize the financial burden of high medical costs:

  Australia is famous for its modern and high-quality health system, but it comes with extremely expensive medical expenses for those who do not have insurance. OSHC helps you cover some or all of your medical expenses, reducing your financial burden significantly if you are unfortunate enough to experience health problems.

• Ensure access to quality healthcare:

  OSHC ensures you have access to high-quality healthcare services in Australia when you need them, from routine medical visits to hospital treatments, so you can study with peace of mind without worrying too much about medical incidents.

While the coverage of insurance plans may vary from provider to provider, OSHC will basically cover the following services:

• See a General Practitioner (GP): You can go to a GP when you feel unwell or have a mild health problem. OSHC typically pays 100% of the cost of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for routine visits at a GP's office.

• Hospital Examination and Treatment: Includes the cost of inpatient treatment, surgery, and other medical services when you are hospitalized (applicable to public hospitals and some private hospitals with contracts).

• Prescription drugs: OSHC will cover part or all of the cost of medications prescribed by a doctor under a covered portfolio. Each OSHC provider will have coverage for each drug and the total amount for one year

• Emergency services and ambulances: Most OSHC packages include the cost of ambulance transportation in the event of a medical emergency. If you request an ambulance but not in an emergency, the trip will not be covered by OSHC.

• Diagnostic tests and imaging (if required by a doctor)

Services that are not typically covered by OSHC:

• Plastic Surgery or Dentistry

• Vision (Optical): Buy eyeglasses, contact lenses, and periodic eye exams.

• Physiotherapy: Physical therapy sessions, chiropractic, osteopathy.

• Treatment of infertility and artificial reproduction.

• Treatment of pre-existing conditions

• Over-the-counter medications or some specialty medications.

• Costs that exceed the MBS schedule: If the doctor or hospital charges you more than the MBS fee, you will have to pay the difference yourself (called the gap fee).

You can purchase additional insurance plans (Extra Cover) to cover the above services if you need it. To understand the detailed information about the benefits of each OSHC insurance package as well as choose the right insurance for you, you can contact IDP for detailed advice.

The purchase of OSHC is mandatory and needs to be completed before applying for an Australian student visa. You can purchase OSHC in one of the ways below:

4.1. Buy directly through your university

Most universities, colleges, or educational institutions in Australia offer OSHC support services for international students. When you receive an offer letter, the school will usually include information about the proposed OSHC package or ask you to choose an insurance provider.

4.2. Purchasing Directly from Approved OSHC Suppliers

You can go directly to the websites of OSHC providers accredited by the Australian government to find out information, compare plans, and buy online. It's quick and convenient, allowing you to proactively choose the right plan for your needs and budget.

4.3. Purchase through study abroad consultants

Reputable study abroad consulting companies such as IDP can assist you in researching, consulting, and completing procedures to buy OSHC completely free of charge. Our consultants will explain in detail the types of OSHC Australia plans, your rights and obligations, help you compare insurance plans from different providers, ensure you choose the right plan, and complete the necessary procedures correctly.

In Australia, there are 5 OSHC insurance providers approved and licensed by the Australian Government. Here are some reputable insurance providers and IDP partners that you can trust to buy health insurance for your Australian study abroad journey.

• ahm OSHC

• Allianz Care Australia (Peoplecare)

• BUPA Australia

• Medibank Private

• NIB OSHC

These providers all meet the Australian government's strict standards for service quality and insurance benefits. You can find out details about each provider on their website or through study abroad consultants.

IDP advises and supports you to buy OSHC completely free of charge

OSHC insurance is not only a legal requirement when studying in Australia but also a smart investment in your health and peace of mind. Understanding OSHC, the benefits covered, and how to buy insurance will help you have the smoothest and most fulfilling study abroad journey.

IDP Education is proud to be a partner of many reputable OSHC providers, making it easy for you to choose and apply for the most suitable insurance plan. With a team of experienced consultants, IDP will help you:

• In-depth consultation on OSHC insurance:

  Answering all your questions, helping you understand the most suitable insurance packages and options.

• OSHC insurance purchase assistance:

  Guide and assist you in completing the application and payment procedures quickly and accurately, ensuring you fully meet the visa requirements.

• Comprehensive study abroad consulting:

  From choosing a school, choosing a major, preparing documents, registering for the IELTS test

  to applying for a visa and hunting for scholarships to study in Australia. In addition, you can participate in study abroad exhibitions

  organized by IDP to meet and answer questions directly from school representatives, find out all information about schools, majors that attract human resources, and bring high demand for immigration, as well as job opportunities after graduation.

Contact IDP for advice on OSHC insurance today!

Free study abroad advice hotline: 19006955