If you are planning to study in Australia in 2025 you must know about Overseas Student Health Cover or OSHC. This is health insurance that international students are required to have while living and studying in Australia. Without OSHC your student visa cannot be approved.
Let us explore everything about OSHC in detail so you can prepare for your journey.
What is Overseas Student Health Cover
OSHC is a type of health insurance designed for international students in Australia. It helps pay for doctor visits hospital stays medicines and emergency ambulance services. It is offered by approved insurance providers and must cover the whole duration of your student visa.
Why OSHC is Mandatory
The Australian government makes OSHC compulsory because healthcare costs in Australia can be high. For example a simple hospital stay can cost thousands of dollars. With OSHC you can manage these expenses without stress. It also ensures students are not left without medical help during emergencies.
Who Needs OSHC
- All international students applying for a student visa
- Family members coming as dependents such as spouse or children
- Students on short term or long term study programs
If you are from certain countries with a reciprocal health care agreement you may get limited public healthcare. Still OSHC is strongly recommended to cover extra costs.
What Does OSHC Cover
Most OSHC policies include
- Doctor visits for general health issues
- Specialist consultations
- Hospital treatment in a shared ward
- Day surgery procedures
- Limited pharmacy costs
- Emergency ambulance transport
Some providers also offer extras like dental eye care or physiotherapy if you choose a more advanced plan.
What is Not Covered
- Cosmetic or elective surgery
- Non prescription medicines
- Dental and optical treatment unless you buy extras cover
- Pre existing conditions for a waiting period
- Services not medically necessary
How Much Does OSHC Cost in 2025
The cost depends on the provider the length of your visa and whether you need single couple or family cover.
- Single cover can start from around 55 to 70 dollars per month
- Couple cover may range from 150 to 250 dollars per month
- Family cover may go higher depending on the size of the family
Always compare providers before buying because prices and benefits can differ.
Approved OSHC Providers in Australia
Only registered insurers can provide OSHC. Some of the well known ones are
- Allianz Care Australia
- Bupa Australia
- Medibank Private
- nib OSHC
- ahm OSHC
Universities often have partnerships with one or two providers which can make the process easier for students.
How to Buy OSHC
- Choose your provider and compare their plans
- Select the level of cover that suits your needs
- Pay for the policy covering the entire length of your student visa
- Receive your certificate of insurance which you will need for your visa application
When to Get OSHC
You must buy OSHC before applying for your student visa. The insurance should start from the day you arrive in Australia and last until your visa expires. If your visa is extended you must also extend your OSHC policy.
Practical Tips for Students
- Always keep a digital copy of your OSHC certificate
- Check what is included and excluded in your policy
- Use the student support services at your university if you need help with claims
- Renew on time to avoid visa problems
- Consider extras if you need dental or eye care often
FAQs About OSHC
Q. Is OSHC included in university fees
No. You must buy it separately though universities sometimes help you arrange it.
Q. Can I switch providers
Yes. You can transfer to another OSHC provider if you find a better option.
Q. What happens if my OSHC expires before my visa
You must renew it immediately. Having no valid OSHC may put your visa at risk.
Q. Can I claim for pregnancy related services
Yes but most policies have a waiting period of 12 months for pregnancy and childbirth cover.