Australia continues to be one of the most popular study destinations for Filipino students. With world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and a welcoming multicultural environment, thousands of students from the Philippines choose Australia every year.
However, before applying for a Subclass 500 Student Visa, one important requirement cannot be overlooked — Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Many Filipino students ask the same question:
"How much does OSHC cost, and how can I find the best value?"
The answer depends on several factors, including your provider, course duration, and the type of cover you need. This guide explains everything Filipino students should know before buying OSHC in Australia.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is health insurance designed specifically for international students studying in Australia.
It helps cover essential healthcare expenses, including:
OSHC is generally required for the entire duration of your student visa.
Yes.
If you are applying for an Australian Subclass 500 Student Visa from the Philippines, you are generally required to maintain valid OSHC throughout your studies in Australia. This helps satisfy visa requirements while protecting you from unexpected medical costs.
The cost of OSHC is not fixed because each approved provider sets its own prices.
As a general guide, a single student can expect to pay approximately:
|
Cover Type |
Estimated Annual Cost (AUD) |
|
Single Student |
AUD 600–800 per year |
|
Couple |
Higher than single cover |
|
Family |
Depends on provider and dependants |
The final premium depends on:
Many students assume every provider charges the same amount.
That isn't the case.
Prices vary because providers may differ in:
Although all approved providers must meet Australia's minimum OSHC requirements, their pricing and member experience are not identical.
Some of the most commonly chosen providers include:
|
Provider |
Best For |
|
Budget-friendly plans |
|
|
Affordable and flexible cover |
|
|
Extensive hospital network |
|
|
Balanced coverage and support |
|
|
Comprehensive student cover |
Instead of choosing the first provider you see, compare several options before purchasing.
Several things influence how much you'll pay.
Course Length
Longer courses require longer insurance periods, increasing the total premium.
Single, Couple, or Family Cover
Adding a partner or children significantly increases the cost.
Provider
Different insurers offer different pricing for similar levels of cover.
Start and End Dates
Your policy should match your student visa period to avoid unnecessary costs.
Yes.
Many students reduce their costs by comparing providers instead of accepting the first recommendation they receive.
Here are a few simple ways to save:
Even a small difference in annual premiums can lead to meaningful savings over a multi-year degree.
Many universities recommend a preferred OSHC provider during enrolment.
While these providers are legitimate, they are not always the most affordable option.
Comparing different providers yourself gives you a better chance of finding a policy that suits both your budget and healthcare needs.
Most standard OSHC policies help cover:
Basic OSHC generally does not fully cover services such as:
These services may require additional cover depending on the provider.
Buying the cheapest policy isn't always the smartest decision.
Likewise, paying the highest premium doesn't always provide better value.
Before purchasing your policy, always compare best OSHC plans to understand:
A few minutes spent comparing can help you choose a plan that matches both your budget and your study plans.
For Filipino students planning to study in Australia, OSHC is much more than a visa requirement—it's an important part of protecting your health while you're overseas.
Before purchasing a policy, compare providers, understand what each plan includes, and choose cover that fits both your study plans and your budget.
Rather than selecting the first option available, take the time to compare the best OSHC plans. A well-informed decision today can help you save money while ensuring you have the protection you need throughout your time in Australia.
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