Study Move - Study in Australia Guide - Student Health Insurance

Student Health Insurance

Australia has a special system of health cover for international students and it is generally known as Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

All international students except students from Sweden and Norway are required to have OSHC.

Having OSHC is a condition of your student visa for the total duration of your study time in Australia. This is important as international students are not be covered by Australia’s national health program, which is called ‘Medicare’.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) provides affordable health cover designed to cover the medical and hospital services you may need while in Australia.

There are many OSHC providers in Australia and your university or institution will recommend a provider to you when you apply as most universities have chosen a preferred provider.

OSHC is available for singles or for families who may be traveling with you to Australia. Please note, that it is important that you indicate to your institution, what level of cover you require.

The issuing of OSHC is regulated by the Australian Government. Only Australian health funds that have signed a Deed with the Australian Government can provide OSHC.

UPDATE

On 1 July 2010, DIAC amended the visa requirements for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Any student applying for a student visa after 1 July 2010 must obtain OSHC for the proposed duration of their student visa. If a student has already obtained OSHC prior to 1 July 2010, they will need to ensure that they have OSHC coverage for the duration of their visa.

The four providers of OSHC in Australia are:

1) AHM

2) BUPA Australia

3) Medibank Private

4) OSHC Worldcare

How to get OSHC

To enable you to obtain your student visa, you will need to obtain OSHC cover before applying for your visa. Your university or institution will lodge your OSHC application and your payment to the specific OSHC provider at the time of processing your enrolment. You will then obtain all your membership details during your orientation and enrolment program or when you first arrive in Australia.

How much does it cost

The cost of OSHC depends on how long you will be studying in Australia. Your university or each provider will be able to provide more information to you regarding costs. Alternatively, you can visit the individual OSHC website to obtain more information.

You institution may require you to pay the total cost of OSHC which will cover your entire duration in Australia. This can be of benefit to you as you then don’t need to worry about your cover expiring and renewing your cover.

Extending your cover

If your OSHC is close to expiring or has expired you much renew your membership if you will continue to stay and study in Australia.

Usually the provider or your institution will send you reminders to extend your cover however, it will be your responsibility to ensure you are fully covered by OSHC.

Health Benefits are not paid if your OSHC has expired.

What is covered?

OSHC covers most medical expenses and the cost of hospital care which you may need while in Australia. OSHC will also pay for most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport. Please carefully check what is covered via your providers website.

What is not covered?

Dental and optometry costs are usually 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.