Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

All students must show evidence that they have health insurance cover before a visa can be issued. Australia has a very cost competitive medical insurance system called the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). It provides a safety net for international students and it is required throughout the duration of the course of study.

Exemption:

• Norwegian students are exempt from this requirement. Swedish students who are studying under CSN International (the Swedish National Board of Student Aid) who have obtained insurance through CSN are also exempt from the OSHC requirement.
• If you are a student sponsored by AusAID you will not need to pay the OSHC yourself but you will need to provide proof that AusAID supports your application.
• 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.

The OSHC covers most medical expenses, cost of hospital care, most prescription drugs and emergency ambulance transport. Dental and optometry costs are not included but students may also take out additional cover. However, it does not cover pre-existing conditions (such as pregnancy or prior illness) and such expenses must be met by the student.

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.

In many cases you can pay the compulsory medical insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover, or OSHC for short) premium to the education institution which will pay the health insurer on your behalf.

How much does it cost?
OSHC cover is required for the full period of your stay 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.


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.

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