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For International Students
We help students understand their OSHC options and compare policies that satisfy Student Visa (Subclass 500) health insurance requirements.
● ABOUT AUSTRALIA OSHC
What Is OSHC and Why Do International Students Need It?
Australia OSHC makes it simple to compare Overseas Student Health Cover from trusted Australian providers. We help international students understand their options and find cover that meets Student Visa requirements.
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What Does OSHC Cover?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is designed to help eligible
international students manage certain healthcare costs while
studying in Australia. Depending on the policy and provider, OSHC
can provide benefits towards services such as doctor visits,
hospital treatment, ambulance services and some prescription
medicines.
The exact benefits, limits and conditions vary between policies,
so it is important to review the Product Disclosure Statement
(PDS) before choosing a policy. Some services may have waiting
periods, exclusions or limits that apply.
Student Visa Condition 8501 Explained
For many temporary visa holders, including eligible Student Visa
500 holders, maintaining adequate health insurance is a visa
requirement under condition 8501.
This means students need to make sure they maintain appropriate
health cover for the required period while they are in Australia.
Your OSHC policy should generally cover the period required for
your studies and visa.
Visa and health-insurance requirements can change, so students
should always check the latest information from the Australian
Government and their OSHC provider.
What's Not Covered Under OSHC
OSHC does not automatically cover every healthcare service or
expense. Depending on your policy, some treatments may be excluded
or only partially covered.
For example, services such as dental treatment, optical care and
physiotherapy may not be included in standard OSHC or may require
additional cover.
There can also be limits on certain benefits, waiting periods and
out-of-pocket expenses. Before receiving treatment, check your
policy documents or contact your provider to understand what is
covered and what you may need to pay yourself.
OSHC Waiting Periods
A waiting period is the amount of time you may need to wait before
you can claim certain benefits under your policy.
Waiting periods can vary depending on the type of treatment and
the policy you choose. Some services may have no waiting period,
while others may have specific restrictions.
If you are planning to receive a particular type of treatment,
check the waiting-period requirements with your OSHC provider
before making an appointment.
How Much Does OSHC Cost?
The cost of OSHC depends on several factors, including the
provider, length of cover, type of policy and number of people
covered.
A single student policy will generally have different pricing from
policies covering a student with a partner or children. The period
of cover can also affect the total premium.
Rather than choosing a policy based only on price, consider the
benefits, exclusions, limits and services included in the policy.
You can compare available OSHC providers to understand the options
available for your circumstances.
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Trusted Providers
Compare cover from recognised providers including AHM, Allianz Care, Bupa, and Medibank through a simple and secure comparison process.
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Fast & Easy
Complete a few simple steps to compare available plans and continue securely with your preferred insurance provider.
OUR MISSION
Making OSHC Simple
Choosing Overseas Student Health Cover shouldn't be confusing. We aim to provide a straightforward comparison experience that helps international students understand their options and make informed decisions before arriving in Australia.
Why Choose Us
- Easy-to-use comparison process.
- Access to leading Australian OSHC providers.
- Simple online application journey.
- Helpful information about OSHC requirements.
- Friendly support when you need assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?
OSHC is private health insurance designed specifically for international students studying in Australia, covering eligible medical and hospital costs during their stay.
What does OSHC cover?
OSHC typically covers hospital treatment, doctor visits, prescription medicines, and emergency ambulance transport, though coverage varies by provider and plan.
What is Student Visa condition 8501?
Condition 8501 requires Student Visa holders to maintain continuous OSHC for the entire length of their visa, from arrival until their visa end date.
Are there waiting periods with OSHC?
Yes, most OSHC policies apply waiting periods for certain treatments and pre-existing conditions before you can claim benefits.
Does OSHC cover pre-existing conditions?
Some pre-existing conditions may be covered after a waiting period, but coverage differs between providers, so compare policy wording carefully.
How much does OSHC typically cost?
OSHC cost depends on your visa length, provider, and whether you need single, dual, or family cover - comparing quotes is the easiest way to find an accurate price.
Ready to Compare OSHC?
Start comparing Overseas Student Health Cover today and find the policy that's right for your study journey in Australia.
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