What Is OSHC?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory health insurance for all international students in Australia. It must be in place for the entire duration of your student visa. You typically purchase it when paying your tuition fee — either your university arranges it, or you choose your own provider.
OSHC Providers in Australia
- Medibank (most commonly used by universities)
- Bupa
- nib OSHC
- AHM (owned by Medibank)
- CBHS Corporate Health
What OSHC Covers
- GP consultations (Medicare Benefits Schedule rates)
- Emergency hospital treatment as a public patient
- Some specialist consultations (partial rebate)
- Prescribed medications under the OSHC Pharmaceutical Benefits equivalent
- Ambulance (in most states)
What OSHC Does NOT Cover
- Dental (unless you purchase extras/-dental cover — additional cost)
- Optical/glasses
- Physiotherapy and allied health (unless extras)
- Pre-existing conditions may have waiting periods
How to Use Your OSHC
Download your provider's app. Show your OSHC membership card at the doctor or pharmacy. Most bulk-billing GPs will directly bill OSHC with no out-of-pocket cost to you.
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