OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory health insurance for international students studying in Australia. It’s a visa requirement and helps cover the cost of medical treatment, hospital care, and some prescription medicines during your stay.
What it covers
- Doctor visits and specialist consultations
- Hospital treatment (shared ward)
- Emergency ambulance services
- Limited prescription medicines
- Some diagnostic services (X-rays, blood tests)
- Emergency dental treatment (limited)
What it doesn’t cover
- Routine dental and optical care
- Physiotherapy and chiropractic (unless in a premium plan)
- Pre-existing conditions (extras cover may be purchased)
- Pregnancy and IVF (limited cover after waiting periods)
- Elective cosmetic surgery
- Treatment not deemed medically necessary
How to choose
Compare providers (BUPA, Medibank, Allianz, NIB, ahm, CBHS — all approved by the Australian Government). Check if the provider has an on-campus office or bulk-billing preferred network. Some universities have preferred provider arrangements. Compare waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and extras cover if you need dental or optical.