Introduction
Studying abroad is an exciting and life-changing experience, and Australia is a popular destination for international students. As part of the student visa requirements, international students in Australia must obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). In this article, we will explore the importance of health insurance for international students, the benefits of OSHC, and three prominent health insurance providers in Australia: Bupa, Medibank, and Allianz. We will also touch upon the topics of free healthcare in Australia, private healthcare options, and the significance of travel insurance.
1. The Importance of health insurance for international students
Health insurance is a vital aspect of student life in Australia. It provides peace of mind and ensures access to essential healthcare services during the course of study. While Australia’s healthcare system offers free or subsidized healthcare services to its residents, international students are not eligible for these benefits. In addition, fees for health care services in Australia is very high compared to other countries, therefore, having the appropriate health insurance coverage becomes essential to meet any unforeseen medical expenses and maintain good health throughout the study period. In Australian, there is particular health insurance designed for international students called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
2. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a mandatory requirement for international students studying in Australia. If you do not purchase the health insurance (OSHC), you can’t get a CoE (Confirmation of Enrollment) and can’t apply for a student visa. It means you are required to show an evident of eligible OSHC to Australian institutions to get your CoE that is the compulsory documentation to be included in your student visa application. It is important to ensure that the chosen OSHC policy meets the visa requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
Coverage
OSHC provides coverage for a range of medical services, including visits to doctors, specialists, and hospitals. It also covers prescription medicines, emergency ambulance services, and limited dental and optical services. However, the level of coverage varies depending on which package or which provider you will be with. Below are the three main categories of OSHC coverage:
Single Cover: This category provides health insurance coverage for an individual international student only.
Couple Cover: This category is designed for international students who are married or in a de facto relationship and wish to have health insurance coverage for themselves and their spouse or partner. It provides the same coverage as single cover for both individuals.
Family Cover: This category is meant for international students who have dependent children accompanying them in Australia. Family cover typically includes coverage for the primary student visa holder, their spouse or partner, and their dependent children. The coverage provided is similar to single cover for each individual within the family.
Before purchasing an OSHC, please consider your need and demand of medical services. For example, if you or your partner is planning to be pregnant and give birth in Australia, please make sure to choose the family OSHC that can cover all costs for pregnancy.
Duration
OSHC must be obtained for the entire duration of the student visa. It is usually issued for the length of the student visa, but students have the option to purchase coverage for a longer period if needed.
Waiting period
General waiting period: This is the most common waiting period and usually applies to most services covered by OSHC. It typically ranges from a few days to a few months, depending on the provider. During this waiting period, you won’t be able to make claims for non-emergency medical services.
Pre-existing conditions waiting period: Some OSHC policies have a waiting period for pre-existing conditions. This means that if you have a medical condition that existed before you purchased the policy, there will be a waiting period before you can claim benefits related to that specific condition. The length of this waiting period may vary, but it is generally around 12 months.
Pregnancy and obstetrics waiting period: If you require coverage for pregnancy-related services or obstetrics, there is usually a waiting period before you can claim these benefits. The waiting period for pregnancy-related services is typically around 12 months.
Pre-existing mental health waiting period: In some cases, OSHC policies may have a specific waiting period for pre-existing mental health conditions. This waiting period is generally around 2 months.
It is important for students to understand the terms and conditions of their OSHC policy, including coverage limits, waiting periods, and any exclusions that may apply.
3. Common Oversea Student Health Cover (OSHC) Providers
Bupa
Bupa is one of the biggest health insurance providers in Australia, offering comprehensive health coverage options for international students.
| Coverage | Cost | Waiting Period |
| Single | $692 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
|
| Couple | $4,480 per year, but vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living | |
| Families | $9,763 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living | |
| Single Parent | $4,480 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
Medibank
Medibank is another leading health insurance provider that offers OSHC for international students. Below is the update information for Essentials OSHC.
| Coverage | Cost | Waiting Period |
| Single | $579 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
|
| Couple | $3,916 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living | |
| Families | $ 8,478 per year, depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
It is noted that Medibank has two different categories for OSHC: “essential OSHC” and “comprehensive OSHC”. The comprehensive OSHC provides more services such as pregnancy and birth and offer more financial coverage, however the price for this package will be higher.
Allianz OSHC
Allianz is a trusted provider of OSHC in Australia, catering specifically to the needs of international students.
| Coverage | Cost | Waiting Period |
| Single | $627 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
|
| Dual | $4,352 per year, but may vary depending on your age and Australian state you will be living | |
| Multiple | $7,528 per year, depending on your age and Australian state you will be living |
It is noted that you can get the “extra” care from Allianz, on the top of each package, to cover your cost for eye and dental services if you wish.
4. Public and Private Healthcare Options
Public healthcare system
Australia’s public healthcare system is accessible to all Australian citizens, permanent residents, and certain visa holders, including OSHC holders. Here are some key points about the public healthcare system:
Lower price
OSHC holders can access subsidized healthcare services if visiting the public health care systems including GP, specialists and public hospitals.
Bulk billing
Bulk billing is a payment option where healthcare providers bill directly, meaning that the patient does not have to pay out-of-pocket expenses for the covered services. Some healthcare providers offer bulk billing, ensuring that OSHC holders can access medical services without additional costs.
Limitations
To access to public health care services, OSHC holders may need to queue in the waiting list and some cases, you may need to wait for months to get the treatment.
Private healthcare options
In addition to public healthcare, OSHC holders also have the option to access private healthcare services in Australia. Here’s an overview of private healthcare options:
Choice of doctor and hospital
Private healthcare allows OSHC holders the freedom to choose their preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals. This choice can provide flexibility and personalized care, as well as access to private hospital facilities.
Waiting period
One of the biggest benefits of using the private service is that you may not have to wait for so long to visit a doctor, specialist or get treatment.
Extras Cost
Visiting a private health care providers often include extras cost, so OSHC holders may need to pay higher “out-of-pocket”. “Out-of-pocket” is the amount gap between what the healthcare providers charge you and what your OSHC provider cover for you.
Conclusion
Health insurance, specifically Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), is a fundamental requirement for international students studying in Australia. It ensures access to essential healthcare services and protects students from unexpected medical expenses. Bupa, Medibank, and Allianz are reputable health insurance providers in Australia, offering comprehensive OSHC plans tailored to the needs of international students. By choosing the right health insurance provider and understanding the terms of their policy, international students can enjoy their academic journey in Australia with peace of mind, knowing that their health needs are well taken care of.
Unsure what OSHC provider and OSHC package is best suit you? Contact SOL Edu today and our team will offer you with the most updated price list for multiple OSHC provider in Australia – All for free!