Overseas Student Health Cover 

Australia has a special system of health cover for international students in Australia. This is called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and, with the exception of students from Sweden and Norway, you are required to have this for the duration of your student visa in Australia. OSHC provides a safety net for international students similar to that provided to Australians through Medicare.

How to obtain OSHC

You will need to complete an Application for OSHC which is available from registered OSHC providers and most educational institutions. Your local education adviser can lodge your OSHC form and payment at time of processing your enrolment to study in Australia.

Only Australian health funds that have signed a Deed with the Australian Government can provide OSHC. Most Australian education institutions have a preferred OSHC provider. Depending on the institution you will be attending you will be required to join one of these three registered health funds.

Students may also take out additional cover in the form of Extra OSHC and students who could not previously access OSHC may now access Optional OSHC. Some students may be exempt from enrolling in the OSHC. 

If you come to Australia on a visa other than a student visa and undertake a short course of study of three months duration or less you will not be eligible for OSHC. It is wise to purchase travel or private medical insurance in this case.

How much does it cost?

OSHC costs depend on how long you will be in Australia. Premiums vary depending on the health fund but generally they start from A$78 for three months insurance (A$312 a year). If your spouse and/or dependant children are accompanying you to Australia you will need to pay a family premium. You pay your OSHC premium before coming to Australia. 

When you arrive in Australia

When you arrive in Australia you confirm your OSHC membership with your registered OSHC provider. Your registered OSHC provider will need to see your passport for identification purposes and to ensure that the dates of your cover are correct.

Extending your cover

OSHC cover is required for the full period of your stay in Australia. This means you must renew your cover each time you re-enrol to study or each 12 months. When you are approaching the final period of study premiums up to 18-months will be accepted.

Most educational institutions will send renewal premiums to registered OSHC providers on behalf of students. Cover is then renewed and the OSHC provider issues a new membership card automatically.

Benefits are not paid during any period when OSHC membership lapses.

What is covered?

OSHC covers most medical expenses and the cost of hospital care which international students may need while in Australia. OSHC will also pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport. 

What is not covered?

Dental and optometry costs are not included but students may also take out additional cover.

Students are reminded that OSHC does not cover any pre-existing conditions (such as pregnancy or prior illness) and such expenses must be met by the student.

For more detailed information on OSHC benefits and costs visit the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care website or contact the health funds offering OSHC