OSHC, or Overseas Student Health Cover, is a type of health insurance that international students in Australia are required to have. It provides coverage for medical and hospital expenses, as well as other health-related services. This insurance is designed to help international students pay for the costs of medical treatment while they are studying in Australia.
Is it mandatory?
Having OSHC is a requirement for obtaining a student visa to study in Australia. This insurance is intended to ensure that international students have access to the same level of medical care as Australian citizens and residents. It covers a wide range of medical services, including visits to doctors and specialists, hospital stays, and ambulance services.
In addition to medical treatment, OSHC also provides coverage for certain services such as dental care, optical services, and emergency medical evacuation. It also includes coverage for certain pharmaceuticals, such as medications prescribed by a doctor.
Who offers OSHC?
OSHC is provided by many private health insurance companies in Australia. These companies are approved by the government to offer OSHC to international students. Students can choose which provider they would like to use, and the cost of the insurance will vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage selected.
International students need to maintain their OSHC coverage while they are studying in Australia. If a student’s OSHC coverage lapses, they may be required to pay for their medical expenses out of pocket. This can be a significant financial burden, so it is important to make sure that your OSHC coverage remains valid throughout your time in Australia.
How much does Overseas Student Health Cover cost in Australia?
The cost of OSHC in Australia will vary depending on several factors, such as the provider, the level of coverage selected, and the length of time that the insurance will be in effect. In general, OSHC can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per year.
International students should compare the different OSHC providers and their options in order to find a plan that fits their needs and budget. Students can contact the providers directly to get a quote for the cost of OSHC coverage.
In addition to the cost of the insurance itself, students should also be aware that there may be additional fees associated with obtaining and maintaining OSHC coverage. These fees can include enrollment fees, application fees, and renewal fees. It is important to factor these additional costs into the overall cost of OSHC when comparing plans and providers.
Overall, the cost of OSHC in Australia can vary widely, so international students need to research their options and compare prices to find a plan that is both affordable and provides the coverage they need.
Final words
OSHC is a type of health insurance that is required for international students studying in Australia. It provides coverage for medical and hospital expenses, as well as other health-related services. It is an important protection for international students to have, as it ensures that they have access to the same level of medical care as Australian citizens and residents.
