Australia presents a wealth of scholarship and financial aid opportunities for students. The country offers compelling opportunities for students, supported by its robust economy and excellent healthcare system. Australia’s medical system stands out by its safety and affordability. Hence, Australia is a top choice for international students seeking academic development.
In this blog, you will explore OSHC, its coverage, factors and top picks of health insurance for Australia student visa.
What Is OSHC, And What Does It Cover?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is created specifically to support overseas student health coverage in Australia. It acts as complete health insurance, ensuring that overseas students have seamless access to the nation’s vital medical and hospital services. OSHC is particularly beneficial for those who do not have access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. Having the appropriate OSHC, often required for obtaining a student visa, provides the peace of mind and necessary coverage to effectively manage healthcare needs during your enriching academic journey in Australia.
All international students in Australia need OSHC, except Norwegians, Swedes, and Belgians. It covers students and their families, including spouses and kids under 18.
Note: if you renew your Australia student visa, remember to also renew your health insurance for Australia student visa to maintain coverage.
Benefits Of OSHC Australia
The benefits of OSHC go beyond medical coverage. It provides additional financial security by protecting students from the potentially high costs of medical treatments and hospitalisations.
By removing these financial concerns, OSHC enables students to devote their full attention to their academic pursuits and personal development, allowing them to make the most of their educational experience without the distraction of unexpected healthcare bills. Furthermore, OSHC gives students peace of mind by fostering an environment that promotes effective studying and general well-being.
What Does OSHC Cover?
| Category | Coverage |
| Hospital | 100% MBS fee coverage for medical services in hospitals Shared ward, day services, ER, outpatient 100% charges for private hospital stays (with agreement) Coverage for implanted prostheses |
| Ambulance | Unlimited emergency ambulance to hospital Medical emergencies covered Non-medical at clinics |
| Doctors/Specialist | Doctors: 100% MBS fee coverage Specialists: 85% MBS fee coverage Out-of-pocket if fees exceed MBS |
| Prescription Meds | Up to $50 per approved prescription Total: $300 for single, $600 for family Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule (PBS) Co-payment fee applies |
Exclusions:
- Treatments not approved by the Medical Services Advisory Committee or recognised by Medicare.
- Non-clinically necessary cosmetic surgery is not covered.
- Non-emergency ambulance, IVF, and experimental treatments were excluded.
- Repatriation and overseas treatments are not included.
- Dental, physiotherapy, chiro, and podiatry consultations are not covered.
Ways To Secure OSHC Insurance In Australia
There are two primary avenues through which you can secure OSHC:
1. Through Your Educational Institution: Many education providers in Australia offer the option of obtaining OSHC on your behalf. In this case, your university will make the initial payment to the health fund provider, guaranteeing that you are covered right away. However, it is crucial to note that you will be responsible for any further renewals of the insurance policy.
2. Selecting Your Own OSHC-Approved Provider: Alternatively, you have the option to independently choose an OSHC-approved provider and directly pay for the insurance yourself. This choice grants you greater control over the selection process and allows you to tailor the insurance plan to your specific needs.
Regardless of the approach you take, maintaining uninterrupted health coverage throughout your stay in Australia is of utmost importance.
Types Of Healthcare In Australia
Health insurance for Australia student visa meets an extensive variety of medical demands. The system is divided into two parts: the public health system and the private health system, each of which provides separate access to healthcare services.
- Public Health System:
In Australia, public healthcare is administered through the renowned Medicare system, a single-payer, universal programme that extends Health insurance for Australia student visa, coverage to all citizens and permanent residents.
This encompassing initiative ensures access to medical appointments, medications, and hospital care at minimal or no cost, and it even supports selected services like physiotherapy, community nursing, and basic dental care for children.
- Private Health System:
Parallel to the public sector, Australia’s private health system, which also extends Health insurance for Australia student visa, includes privately-owned hospitals, specialised medical and allied health clinics, and pharmacies.
These services are frequently funded by a combination of government payments and private-sector investments. This system offers to those in need of personalised and expedited medical care, providing a variety of solutions not available in the public domain.
Top 5 Health Insurance For International Students In Australia
Below are the key features and considerations for each of the mentioned international student health insurance plans:
1. IMG
- Designed for international students with coverage for maternity care, mental health, and pre-existing conditions.
- Provides coverage for COVID-19 treatments, subject to policy terms.
- May align with educational institution requirements.
- Pros: Comprehensive coverage, Covid-19 coverage, customer support, and a wide range of benefits.
- Cons: Some plans have a waiting period for pre-existing conditions.
2. Cigna Global
- Offers Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans that cover Australia and other locations.
- Flexibility to add additional coverage like dental or ophthalmologist care.
- Options for monthly, trimester, or annual payments.
- Pros: Flexibility, comprehensive coverage, wide hospital network, flexible payment options.
- Cons: Limited coverage for certain outpatient consultations, varying coverage in different countries.
3. Now Health International
- Emphasis on customer service and clear communication.
- Coverage extended to over 194 countries and territories.
- Offers customisable plans tailored to student needs.
- Pros: Customisation, comprehensive support, global coverage.
- Cons: Some services operate on a reimbursement system, a waiting period for maternity coverage.
4. HCCMIS
- StudentSecure plans with varying coverage levels and affordability.
- Option to choose from four plans with different benefits.
- Discounts for upfront payments, and coverage for dental emergencies.
- Pros: Affordability, diverse plan options, discounts, dental coverage.
- Cons: Waiting period for pre-existing conditions, limited coverage in certain plans.
5. Foyer Global Health
- Three plans catering to various situations and coverage needs.
- Basic dental treatments, surgeries, and appointments are covered.
- 24/7 customer support, repatriation and evacuation services.
- Pros: Coverage customisation, comprehensive support, dental coverage.
- Cons: Basic plan lacks pre- or post-natal care, a higher cost compared to some options.
The best plan for you depends on your individual circumstances, including your health needs, budget, and the specific requirements of your educational institution, especially when considering health insurance for Australia student visa holders. It’s crucial to carefully review each plan’s terms, coverage limitations, waiting periods, and benefits before making a decision.
Factors Affecting The Cost of Health Insurance In Australia
The cost of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in Australia is influenced by several key factors:
- Study Duration
- Visa Type
- Number of Insured Individuals
Australia’s Department of Health has approved the following health insurance providers to offer OSHC:
- Allianz Care Australia
- ahm OSHC
- Bupa
- nib
- Medibank
Each provider offers various OSHC plans for different study durations and policy inclusions. When considering your health insurance options while studying in Australia, it’s essential to take these factors into account to make a well-informed decision about coverage and costs.
FAQs
1. How much does OSHC cost in Australia for international students?
OSHC coverage for international students in Australia starts at $543.85/year.
2. Is OSHC compulsory in Australia?
As per the Department of Home Affairs, international students must hold OSHC throughout their stay in Australia.
3. How to pay OSHC from India?
A credit card is usually needed to obtain OSHC, but if you don’t have one, your personal counsellor might offer alternative payment options.
4. How much bank balance is required for Health insurance for Australia student visa?
For the Australia Student Visa application, a minimum bank balance of A$21,041 is required to cover living expenses, one year of tuition fees, return airfare to and from Australia to the student’s home country, and the mandatory overseas student health insurance for Australia student visa.
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