“Do I really need health insurance just to study in Australia?”
That’s one of the most common questions international students ask, and for good reason.
Between visa applications, course enrollments, and travel plans, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) might seem like just another box to tick. But the truth is, it’s far more than that. Medical care in Australia can be expensive, and without the right health cover, even a simple trip to the doctor could leave a significant dent in your budget.
That’s where OSHC comes in. It’s a mandatory requirement for all international students on a subclass 500 visa, and more importantly, it’s your safety net. At Fewa, we’ve helped hundreds of students secure the right OSHC policy to protect their health and peace of mind during their studies.
In this guide, we break down what OSHC covers, how to apply it, the types of plans available, and how to keep your coverage valid throughout your time in Australia. Whether you’re applying for your first student visa or need help renewing your policy, this is the ultimate resource for international students like you.
Let’s dive in.
What Is OSHC?
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is a mandatory health insurance for international students studying in Australia on a subclass 500 student visa. It helps pay for essential medical and hospital care you might need while you’re living and studying here.
The Department of Home Affairs requires overseas students to maintain OSHC for their duration in Australia. Think of it as Australia’s way of making sure you’re not left out of pocket in case of illness or injury. Medical treatment in Australia can be expensive, and OSHC provides a safety net so you’re protected just like local students under Medicare.
What Does OSHC Cover?
OSHC providers offer a variety of plans to suit different needs.
The basic (minimum compulsory) OSHC plan typically covers:
- Doctor visits (GP consultations)
- Some hospital treatments
- Ambulance services
- Limited pharmaceutical coverage (medications)
However, OSHC does not cover treatments such as:
- Dental care
- Optical services
- Physiotherapy
If you want coverage for these, you can opt for Extras OSHC from your provider.
Alternatively, you can purchase private health insurance in conjunction with your OSHC to cover the additional services not included. Keep in mind that the benefits and costs may vary among insurers and plans.
You can also buy travel insurance in addition to your OSHC, which can cover a range of health-related treatments during your stay.
Don’t risk visa delays. Get expert support from us to secure your OSHC and submit the correct documents. We’ll guide you through the process quickly and correctly, with no surprises or gaps.
How To Apply for Overseas Student Health Cover?
Step 1: Choose an Approved OSHC Provider
To begin, you’ll need to select an OSHC provider that is officially approved by the Australian Government. Only these registered providers can issue valid OSHC policies that meet visa requirements. Some of the most well-known and trusted providers include Bupa, Medibank, NIB, Allianz Care Australia, ahm OSHC, etc.
Each of these insurers offers a variety of policy options tailored for international students in Australia on a student visa, so you’re free to choose based on your preferences, budget, and healthcare needs.
Step 2: Decide on the Type of Policy You Need
Once you have a list of approved providers, take time to compare their different policy options. You can either check their websites or use OSHC comparison tools online. When comparing, pay close attention to the monthly or annual premium, the coverage details (such as what’s included or excluded), and any waiting periods for specific treatments.
Additionally, consider covering items such as dental, optical, or physiotherapy services, which aren’t typically included in basic OSHC. In that case, you may wish to explore policies that offer extras or add-on coverage. This step is crucial in ensuring you get the best value and protection during your stay in Australia.
Step 3: Purchase the Policy
Once you’ve decided on the provider and policy that fits your needs, go to the insurer’s official website to purchase OSHC. You’ll be asked to select the policy length, which should match the duration of your Confirmation of Enrolment (COE),essentially the length of your course.
Next, you’ll need to fill in your details, such as your full name, date of birth, passport number, visa subclass (typically subclass 500), and course provider. You can pay securely online using a credit or debit card. After successful payment, you’ll receive a Certificate of Insurance via email. This is a key document needed for your student visa application.
Step 4: Submit OSHC Details With Your Student Visa Application
Now that you have your OSHC policy and Certificate of Insurance, it’s time to complete your student visa application. When applying for the subclass 500 student visa, you will be asked to provide your OSHC details.
Make sure to enter your OSHC policy number, upload the Certificate of Insurance, and ensure that the policy start and end dates cover your entire stay in Australia, beginning before your course starts. Failing to provide accurate OSHC details can result in delays or issues with your visa approval.
Where Can You Buy OSHC?
You can buy OSHC in the following ways:
- Directly from the insurer’s website – Good if you know what you want.
- Through your university or college – Many institutions partner with specific OSHC providers.
- Via FEWA Migration Agents – We’ll help you compare different policies and even take care of the paperwork for you!
Starting your studies soon? Focus on your course while we handle your OSHC. From selecting a provider to policy activation, we take care of everything so you can study with peace of mind. Contact us!
Types of OSHC Available for International Students
Here’s a quick comparison of the types of OSHC you can choose:
| Type of OSHC | Who It’s For | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Cover | One student | Basic medical, hospital & ambulance |
| Couple Cover | Student + Partner | Both individuals covered |
| Family Cover | Student + Partner + Children | Entire family covered |
Each plan comes with different pricing and limits, so make sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before buying.
How to Maintain Your Overseas Student Health Insurance?
Renew Your Policy on Time
If you decide to extend your studies or your course gets extended, you must renew your OSHC before your current policy expires. Your OSHC should always cover the whole period of your student visa.
Keep Your Details Updated
Make sure your insurer always has your current personal information. If you move to a new address, get a new phone number, or change your visa status, inform your OSHC provider promptly to avoid issues with claims or policy lapses.
Know the Waiting Periods
Some services, like pre-existing condition treatments or pregnancy-related care, may have waiting periods (e.g., 12 months). That means you need to have continuous OSHC coverage for a specific period before you can claim these benefits.
Always Carry Your Policy Details
Keep your OSHC card or e-card and policy number somewhere accessible. You may need them when visiting a doctor, making a claim, or in emergencies.
Confused by OSHC rules? Contact us to simplify everything, visa requirements, policy types, and provider options, so you get the right coverage with no stress or hidden costs.
Avoid Gaps in Coverage
Letting your OSHC policy lapse, even for a short time, can result in serious consequences. You may lose access to medical services or even breach your student visa conditions, which could affect your ability to stay in Australia.
Can You Change OSHC Providers?
Yes, you can switch to another provider at any time. Some students choose to change if they:
- Find a better price
- Need extra services (like dental or optical)
- Are unhappy with their current provider’s customer service
Just make sure there’s no gap in coverage between switching providers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with OSHC
Many students make the following errors that can cost them time and money:
- Not buying OSHC early enough
- Buying coverage for a shorter period than their COE or visa duration
- Assuming everything (like dental or vision) is covered
- Forgetting to renew their policy before it expires
- Not reading the fine print of their policy
Conclusion
Getting OSHC is not just a requirement; it’s your safety net while you pursue your dreams in Australia. With the right cover, you’ll have one less thing to worry about and more energy to focus on your studies and enjoy life in this beautiful country.
At Fewa, we’ve helped hundreds of international students choose the right OSHC and smoothly apply for their student visa. We understand that things can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s their first time.
Let us help you understand your OSHC options, compare providers and benefits, purchase a policy at the best rate, and submit the correct documents for your visa. Visit our office or contact us online; we’re here to support your study journey.