If you’re an international student heading to Australia, OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) isn’t optional — it’s a visa condition. Every Subclass 500 visa holder must maintain OSHC for the entire duration of their stay. But not all OSHC policies are created equal. Here’s what you need to know before buying.
What OSHC Covers
OSHC is basic health insurance designed to cover:
- Doctor (GP) visits — 100% of the MBS (Medicare Benefits Schedule) fee at bulk-billing clinics
- Hospital treatment — shared ward accommodation in a public hospital
- Ambulance — emergency transport (critical — ambulance rides cost AUD 400–6,000 without cover)
- Prescription medicines — up to AUD 50 per item, capped at AUD 300/year for singles
What OSHC Does NOT Cover
- Dental (except emergency hospital dental)
- Optical (glasses, contact lenses, eye exams)
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, psychology
- Pre-existing conditions (usually a 12-month waiting period)
- Pregnancy (12-month waiting period for obstetric services)
Most students add extras cover for dental and optical — typically AUD 15–30/month extra.
6 OSHC Providers Compared (2026)
| Provider | Single/year | Couple/year | Family/year | GP Gap? | Extras Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ahm | AUD 530 | AUD 1,780 | AUD 2,840 | $0 at participating clinics | Yes |
| Allianz Care | AUD 580 | AUD 1,890 | AUD 2,960 | Some gaps apply | Yes |
| Bupa | AUD 560 | AUD 1,820 | AUD 2,880 | $0 at Bupa-participating clinics | Yes |
| CBHS | AUD 510 | AUD 1,720 | AUD 2,780 | Minimal | Yes |
| Medibank | AUD 590 | AUD 1,900 | AUD 3,020 | $0 at Members’ Choice clinics | Yes |
| nib | AUD 540 | AUD 1,780 | AUD 2,850 | Some gaps apply | Yes |
Prices shown are for a 12-month single policy. Actual premiums vary based on the length of your visa.
How to Choose
Budget pick: ahm or CBHS — lowest premiums, decent coverage. Best network: Medibank or Bupa — most participating clinics nationwide. All-rounder: Allianz Care — good coverage and widely accepted.
Compare all providers and get a quote: Flywire OSHC Comparison.
When to Buy OSHC
You need OSHC from the day you arrive in Australia. Most universities include OSHC in your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) package, but you can choose your own provider — just make sure the coverage start date matches your arrival.
Pro tip: If your university arranges OSHC for you, you can still switch providers after arrival. The policy is yours, not the university’s.
FAQ
Can I buy OSHC after arriving in Australia?
You must have OSHC from day one of your visa. Buy it before you travel. You can switch providers after arrival.
What happens if my OSHC expires?
Your visa compliance is at risk. Immigration (Home Affairs) can cancel your student visa if you don’t maintain OSHC.
Is OSHC the same as travel insurance?
No. SafetyWing and other travel insurers cover different things (trip cancellation, lost luggage, COVID quarantine). Some students buy both OSHC + travel insurance for full coverage.
Can I use OSHC for dental and optical?
Only hospital dental is covered. For regular check-ups, glasses, and contact lenses, you need extras cover.