Compare OSHC in Australia: Find the Best & Cheapest Student Health Cover (2025 Guide)

• byBudgetpolicy
• 2025-11-10

Got an offer letter from your dream university in Australia? Once you pay your initial tuition fee and get your CoE(Confirmation of Enrolment), the first thing to hop onto is getting your  Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Most students get into the visa process only to later realise that the visa process can actually not be completed without adequate health cover. This is because you need to attach the proof of OSHC to your Australian student visa application. And no, that’s not a choice; it is mandatory for all international students. 

What Does an OSHC Do?

OSHC helps you pay for hospital and medical expenses while studying in Australia. Without it, you’d be paying full price for doctor visits, X-rays, or hospital stays — and those bills can easily reach thousands of dollars.

The Australian government has clearly stated the requirement of an active OSHC policy for the entire duration of the stay for all  student visa holders (subclass 500). Even if you are pursuing a short study program, you need a cover.

Now, there’s a pool of top registered providers offering OSHC plans — each one offering different prices, hospital networks, and claim processes. So, are all of these plans the same? Is buying the cheapest of all the smartest way to save money? Comparing OSHC plans before you buy not only answers these questions but also helps you save hundreds of dollars a year.

Why Compare OSHC Providers?

When you first see different OSHC policies, they all seem identical. They all state covering GP visits, hospital treatment, ambulance, and prescription medicines. But here’s the thing: not all providers charge the same or offer the same experience at the time of an emergency — when you actually need the insurance. It is only when you compare OSHC plans that you notice variations in:

• Pricing (some are 10–15% cheaper for identical inclusions)

• Hospital networks (some have better ties with private hospitals)

• Claim turnaround times

• Digital tools (apps, online claim submissions, 24/7 chat)

• Customer support, especially for students from overseas

This is why using a comparison platform like Budget Policy is beneficial. It lets you review plans from multiple insurers side by side — so you can pick the one that fits your budget and your medical needs.

OSHC Providers in Australia: The Big Names

Here’s a quick look at the main insurers offering OSHC, what they’re known for, and what requirements they cover best.

1. Bupa OSHC : Among the largest and most trusted health brands in Australia. Strengths: Wide hospital network, 24/7 student support, and reliable claims. Best for: Students who want solid hospital coverage and prefer an established name.
2. AHM OSHC : AHM is known for its simple pricing and quick online setup. Strengths: Simple plans, easy claims, and a transparent online portal. Best for: Students who want a no-hassle, minimum paperwork cover.
3. NIB OSHC : NIB combines competitive prices with flexible management through its digital app. Strengths: Affordable, quick reimbursements, and digital tools. Best for: Tech geeks who want a plan with lower premiums.
4. Medibank OSHC : Medibank is one of Australia’s top insurers with a strong reputation for quality care. Strengths: Extensive partner hospital network and responsive customer service. Best for: Students looking for premium support and broad coverage.
5. Allianz Care OSHC : Keen about student experience. Strengths: Online setup, multilingual support, and easy mobile claims. Best for: Students new to Australia who want help at every step.

How to Compare OSHC Plans the Right Way

Jumping onto the cheapest plan isn’t the right way to buy an OSHC. You should check three things carefully:

1. What’s Actually Covered: Every plan covers basic hospital and medical costs, but not all cover the same extras. Assess your requirements based on your medical history and see if a plan fits. 

2. Waiting and Limits: Some services, like pregnancy-related care, have waiting periods. There are also certain limits to the amount you can claim for a service, which means you are liable to pay the gaps yourself. Always check these before you buy a plan.

3. Easy Claims: A quick claim process can make all the difference when you’re managing multiple expenses along with a medical emergency.

How Much Will an OSHC Plan Cost?

The cost of your plan depends on multiple factors —  whether your plan is a basic one, or does it include extras cover, what is the duration of your stay, is it a single, couple, or a family plan, etc.  

These rates change slightly each year, so always check live prices before you apply. Using a comparison tool like Budget Policy helps you view updated quotes instantly without having to visit multiple sites.

How to Choose the Best OSHC Provider for You

The best depends on what you prefer the most:

• Tight on budget? You can consider AHM or NIB — they usually offer lower premiums compared to others.  

• Want to associate with a big, trusted name? Medibank and Bupa are well-known insurers, making them more reliable for students. 

• If you are looking for a provider that has strong customer support, Allianz Care can be a great choice. They offer multilingual help and student-friendly assistance.

At the end of the day, the best OSHC provider is the one that makes your life simpler in times as crucial as a medical emergency.

Why Use Budget Policy to Compare OSHC in Australia?

Budget Policy  lets you compare various plans and buy the one that suits you best. Opening multiple tabs and filling out the same details again and again, just to get a simple quote and then switching tabs to compare is a lot of hassle. Budget Policy brings all of this info on a single tab. It’s a free comparison platform that helps students understand inclusions and exclusions, and even buy directly through the platform.

No confusion, just a clear, side-by-side comparison so you can make a smart choice before applying for your student visa.

Final Thoughts

Buying OSHC is one of the most important parts of your study abroad journey. The right plan protects you from unexpected medical costs and keeps your student visa valid.

By comparing OSHC plans for international students through our platform — Budget Policy, you’ll not only find the cheapest OSHC in Australia, but also the one that gives you real value when you need it most.

So, before rushing to buy the cheapest plan, take ten minutes to compare. A little research now can save you a lot later.