What is OSHC and is it mandatory for international students in Australia?

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a type of health insurance that international students on an Australian student visa (subclass 500) are legally required to hold for the entire duration of their visa. It is not optional — your university will not enrol you without proof of OSHC, and not having it can affect your visa status.

OSHC covers:
- Visits to the doctor (GP consultations)
- Some specialist appointments
- Hospital treatment (as a public patient)
- Emergency ambulance services
- Most prescription medications listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

It does NOT typically cover dental, optical, physiotherapy, or pre-existing conditions (in some cases).

The cost of OSHC varies by provider and policy type. For a single student, expect to pay approximately AUD 550–750 per year. Family cover costs significantly more. The main OSHC providers are Medibank, Bupa, AHM, NIB, and CBHS.

Many universities have an agreement with a specific OSHC provider and will automatically arrange cover for you when you accept your offer — the cost will appear on your invoice. You can switch providers before your policy starts if you find a better deal.

Students from Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Italy, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and the Republic of Ireland may be exempt from OSHC if they are covered under a reciprocal health care agreement. Check whether your country has such an agreement with Australia.

Always keep your OSHC active throughout your stay. If you extend your visa, make sure to extend your cover accordingly.