Overseas Student Health Cover
What is OSHC?
OSHC stands for Overseas Student Health Cover. It is a health insurance requirement for international students studying in Australia. OSHC helps cover the cost of medical and hospital care that overseas students might need while they are in Australia on a student visa.
What does OSHC cover?
What does Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) include?
Various OSHC providers offer a range of plans catering to different needs.
The compulsory minimum (basic) OSHC plan typically covers:
Visits to general practitioners (GPs)
Certain hospital treatments
Ambulance services
Limited pharmaceuticals (medicines)
However, OSHC does not extend to treatments like dental care, optical services, or physiotherapy. If you desire coverage for these, you can opt for Extras OSHC from your OSHC provider.
Alternatively, you have the choice to purchase private health insurance alongside your OSHC to cover services not included in OSHC plans. Benefits and expenses vary among insurance policies and providers.
Additionally, you may consider acquiring travel insurance to complement your OSHC, which can offer coverage for a broader range of health treatments.
Where to obtain OSHC?
Only a select few registered health insurers offer OSHC. You can compare different plans and prices by visiting the following websites:
ahm OSHC
Allianz Care Australia (Peoplecare)
BUPA Australia
CBHS International Health
Medibank Private
NIB OSHC
Maintaining your OSHC
The Department of Home Affairs mandates that international students uphold their OSHC coverage throughout their stay in Australia.