Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) A Requirement for Australian Student Visa
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is an essential aspect of the international student experience in Australia. It’s a mandatory health insurance requirement that ensures international students have access to necessary medical and healthcare services while studying in the country.
This coverage is designed to assist with medical costs and hospital care, giving students peace of mind during their time in Australia.
1. Purpose and Requirement:
The primary purpose of OSHC is to provide international students with adequate health insurance during their stay in Australia. It is a prerequisite for obtaining a student visa, and students must maintain OSHC for the entire duration of their studies in Australia. This requirement ensures that students have access to healthcare services and are not a financial burden on the Australian healthcare system.
2. Coverage and Benefits:
OSHC covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, doctor’s visits, prescription medicines, emergency ambulance services, diagnostic tests, and some dental and optical services. The coverage may vary based on the insurance provider and the specific plan chosen by the student. It is essential to carefully review the coverage details to understand the benefits and limitations of the policy.
3. Insurance Providers:
Several approved insurance providers offer OSHC in Australia. These providers offer different plans with varying levels of coverage and premiums. Students have the flexibility to choose a plan that best suits their healthcare needs and budget.
4. Duration of Coverage:
OSHC must cover the entire duration of the student visa, including any authorized stay before or beyond the academic program’s duration. If a student extends their visa or stays in Australia after completing their studies, they must extend their OSHC accordingly to maintain continuous coverage.
5. Costs and Premiums:
The cost of OSHC varies depending on factors such as the insurance provider, the level of coverage, the duration of the policy, and the type of institution where the student is enrolled. Premiums may also differ based on the state or territory in Australia. Students should carefully compare the options available to find the most suitable plan that fits their needs and financial situation.
6. Applying for OSHC:
To obtain OSHC, international students can purchase a policy through an approved insurance provider before arriving in Australia. During the student visa application process, they need to provide evidence of OSHC coverage. It’s crucial to ensure that the policy is valid and meets the Australian government’s requirements.
7. Family Members:
If international students are accompanied by family members, such as a spouse or children, they are also required to have OSHC coverage for the duration of their stay in Australia. Family members will need to be listed on the policy, and the appropriate premiums must be paid for their coverage.
Where can you get your OSHC?
OSHC is offered by certain insurers under a Deed of Agreement with the Department of Health and Aged Care to provide adequate health insurance to students at a reasonable cost. Here are the registered health insurers that offer OSHC:
In conclusion, Overseas Student Health Cover is a vital component of studying in Australia as an international student. It’s crucial to carefully review the coverage and terms of the OSHC policy you choose to ensure that it meets your specific healthcare needs while studying in Australia. OSHC safeguards students’ health and well-being by providing essential healthcare coverage, ensuring they have access to medical services throughout their academic journey in Australia.
Now that’s question of yours is answered, would you like to start your international student journey?
