Studying in Australia? Here’s Why You Need OSHC & Where to Get It!

• byBudgetpolicy
• 2025-10-04

Excited to set out on a new journey as an international student in Australia? While you are working to get your Australian student visa sorted, there’s one thing you absolutely cannot skip: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Many first-time students are surprised to learn this isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement. You need to attach the proof of OSHC along with your student visa application. Without OSHC, your visa application won’t be approved. 

Let’s understand why OSHC matters, how it works, and where you can get the right plan without moving past your budget.

Why OSHC Is Non-Negotiable for Students

OSHC is your safety net. Living in a new country is unpredictable. You might catch the flu during exams, twist your ankle on a weekend trip, or need a quick hospital check-up. Without OSHC, you’re on your own financially. With it, you get access to:

• Doctor visits and basic medical care
• Hospital treatment as a private or public patient (depending on your cover)
• Emergency ambulance services
• Limited prescription medicines

And here’s the key point: OSHC is mandatory under visa rules. If you’re applying for a student visa, you’ll need to show proof of your OSHC before the Department of Home Affairs approves your application.

OSHC Australia: What Makes It Different

Australia has multiple private insurers who provide OSHC, but the plans are not identical. Each provider has its own quirks — some cover more, some have lower premiums, and some offer extras like telehealth or mental health support.

That’s why a quick OSHC compare before buying is smart. Picking the first plan you see without reading through the inclusions might not only cost you more but also might not cover your actual needs.

Popular OSHC Providers

Here are a few top providers:

• NIB OSHC – Popular for competitive pricing and a large provider network.
• AHM OSHC – Known for simple, straightforward plans.
• Bupa OSHC – Strong hospital coverage and a wide network across Australia.
• Allianz Care OSHC – Reliable for students who want digital tools and quick claims.
• Medibank OSHC – Trusted for its strong hospital partnerships and extra member services.

Each has its pros, and the ‘best’ one depends on what matters most to you — price, network, or add-ons.

Choosing a Plan

Here’s a quick checklist for things to look for in a plan:

1. Look at premiums – How much will you pay monthly or yearly?
2. Check hospital networks – Will your nearby hospital accept the cover?
3. Read the exclusions – What’s not covered is just as important to know as what is.
4. Consider extras – Some plans offer dental, physio, or mental health support.
   
   
   

Why Choosing the Right OSHC Pays Off

Here’s the thing: all providers technically meet the visa requirement. But not all plans meet your needs. For example:

• If you’re planning to bring your spouse or kids, you’ll need family OSHC.
• If you’re on a tight budget, options with lower premiums like NIB OSHC or AHM OSHC might save you money.
• If you want wider hospital access, Bupa OSHC could be the smarter choice.

Picking wrong doesn’t mean your visa will be refused, but it could mean higher out-of-pocket costs later.

How Budget Policy Makes It Easier

On Budget Policy, you get:

• Instant OSHC compare tool – compare all the big providers in one place
• Real-time quotes – no waiting for an agent to call you back
• Guidance if you’re stuck – our team can help you pick a plan that actually fits your case
• One-click purchase – no endless forms or back-and-forth emails

With Budget Policy, you get clarity, speed, and no hidden surprises. See all the plans side by side, compare features, and buy online.

Final Word

Studying in Australia is a life-changing opportunity. But your health and visa compliance should never be left to chance. OSHC Australia is more than a requirement — it’s your safety net.

So before you blindly buy a plan just for the sake of visa compliance, spend five minutes to compare plans on Budget Policy. Whether it’s NIB OSHC, AHM OSHC, Bupa OSHC, Medibank OSHC, or Allianz Care OSHC, compare and find the best plan for yourself — the one with the right balance between affordability and coverage.

And if you’re still unsure? Head to Budget Policy, compare your options in seconds, and get your OSHC sorted today. Simple, fast, and student-friendly.