Health Insurance for International Students
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) information for Concord English College students in Melbourne.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
As an international student studying in Australia on a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you are legally required to hold valid OSHC for the entire duration of your stay. This page explains what OSHC covers, who the approved providers are, and how to choose the right policy for you.
What is OSHC and why is it mandatory?
OSHC is a private health insurance product specifically designed for international students in Australia. It is a condition of your Student Visa (Visa Condition 8501) — you cannot legally study in Australia without it.
Legal requirement
The Department of Home Affairs requires all Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders to maintain OSHC for the entire duration of their visa. Failure to maintain cover can result in visa cancellation.
Dependants included
If your spouse or children (under 18) accompany you to Australia, they must also be covered by OSHC for the duration of your student visa.
Duration
Your OSHC must cover the full length of your course — from your arrival date to your course end date. It is recommended to purchase cover that extends slightly beyond your course end date.
Can be switched
You are free to choose any of the six government-approved OSHC providers. You can also switch providers during your stay, as long as you maintain continuous cover.
What does OSHC cover?
All government-approved OSHC policies must meet minimum coverage standards set by the Australian Government. Here is what is included as standard across all providers.
GP & doctor visits
Visits to a general practitioner (GP). Most providers cover 100% of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee.
Public hospital treatment
Shared ward accommodation in a public hospital — 100% of MBS fee covered by all providers.
Emergency ambulance
Emergency ambulance transport covered at 100% by all approved OSHC providers.
Prescription medicines
Limited pharmaceutical cover — typically up to $50 per item, capped at $300–$500 per year. Medibank offers up to $70 per item.
Specialist consultations
Specialist visits covered at 85% of MBS fee by most providers. CBHS, Nib, and Bupa cover 100%.
Mental health services
Mental health services are covered at varying levels. Some providers include additional mental health support — check individual policies.
Dental & optical
Not included in standard OSHC. Some providers (e.g. Bupa) offer optional extras add-ons for dental, optical, and physiotherapy.
Pregnancy & maternity
Only available on higher-tier plans (Bupa, Nib). Subject to a 12-month waiting period before benefits activate.
The six government-approved OSHC providers
You must choose one of these six providers — all are approved by the Australian Government. Prices below are indicative for a single student, 12-month policy (2026). Always get a current quote before purchasing.
Owned by Medibank, AHM is consistently the most affordable option for single students. Digital-first approach with a straightforward claims process. Uses Medibank's extensive provider network.
- Lowest premiums for single cover
- Access to Medibank's GP network
- Simple online claims
Highly rated mobile app for managing cover, claims, and finding doctors. Close second to AHM on price for singles. Covers 100% of MBS fee for GP visits.
- Fastest claims processing
- 100% MBS coverage for GPs
- Excellent mobile app
Consistently the most competitive pricing for couples and families. Large direct-billing network means you can see a doctor without paying upfront at many clinics.
- Best family & couple pricing
- Largest direct-billing network
- Cashless doctor visits available
Premium provider with Australia-wide retail centres, 24/7 digital health platform (Blua), and one of the few providers offering optional dental/optical extras add-ons.
- Optional dental & optical extras
- Physical centres across Australia
- 24/7 Blua digital health platform
One of Australia's most trusted brands. Includes a 24/7 Student Health Advice Line where you can speak to a registered nurse at any time — particularly valuable for students navigating a new healthcare system.
- 24/7 nurse advice line
- Higher pharmacy cap ($70/item)
- Extensive hospital network
Often overlooked but very competitive — particularly for couples. Covers 100% of MBS fee (vs 85% for some providers). Good value for those who visit doctors or specialists frequently.
- 100% MBS fee coverage
- Competitive couple & family rates
- Strong specialist coverage
Prices are indicative guides based on March–April 2026 market data for a single student 12-month policy. Actual premiums vary by coverage level, age, and duration. Always obtain a current quote directly from your chosen provider before purchasing. Concord English College does not receive any commission or referral fee from OSHC providers.
Provider comparison at a glance
| Provider | Single (est. 12 months) | GP coverage | Direct billing | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AHM | ~$624 | 85% MBS | ✓ (Medibank network) | Budget singles |
| Nib | ~$650–680 | 100% MBS | ✓ | Tech-savvy, fast claims |
| Allianz Care | ~$660 | 85% MBS | ✓ (largest network) | Families & couples |
| Bupa | ~$700–730 | 100% MBS | ✓ | Comprehensive cover |
| Medibank | ~$690–720 | 85% MBS | ✓ | Support & guidance |
| CBHS International | ~$640–670 | 100% MBS | ✓ | Frequent healthcare users |
All prices in AUD. Indicative only — obtain current quotes from providers. Concord English College does not endorse any particular provider.
How to get the most from your OSHC
Buy for the full duration upfront
Purchasing cover for your entire course duration locks in the current price and protects you against future premium increases — potentially saving hundreds of dollars.
Use direct billing clinics
Find a GP that has a direct billing arrangement with your provider. You pay $0 upfront — the clinic bills your insurer directly. Check your provider's app or website for a "Find a doctor" tool.
Always carry your OSHC card
Keep your OSHC membership card (physical or digital) with you at all times. You will need it at every doctor or hospital visit to access your benefits.
Don't just follow your institution's recommendation
Some colleges and universities have commercial partnerships with specific providers. You are not obligated to use their recommended provider — compare independently to find the best value for you.
Cover dependants on the same policy
If your partner or children are joining you in Australia, adding them to your OSHC policy is usually cheaper than purchasing separate policies — especially with Allianz Care or Bupa.
Maintain continuous cover
Never let your OSHC lapse, even for a short period. A gap in cover can constitute a visa breach under Visa Condition 8501 and may affect your ability to renew or extend your visa.
How to use your OSHC when you need it
Find a doctor
Use your provider's app or website to find a GP or specialist near you. Choosing a direct-billing doctor means you won't pay upfront.
Show your OSHC card
Present your OSHC membership card or digital card at the reception. If it's a direct-billing clinic, no payment is required.
Claim if needed
If you paid upfront, submit a claim through your provider's app or website. Most refunds are processed within 2–5 business days.
Emergency? Call 000
In a medical emergency call 000 immediately. All OSHC providers cover 100% of emergency ambulance costs.
More information
Department of Home Affairs
Official government OSHC requirements and visa condition information
privatehealth.gov.au
Australian Government's independent comparison tool for all OSHC providers
Overseas Student Ombudsman
For complaints about your OSHC provider or education provider
Ask Concord
Questions about OSHC as it relates to your enrolment at Concord English College
Concord English College provides this information as a general guide only. We do not provide financial or insurance advice, and we do not receive commission from any OSHC provider. Students are responsible for selecting and maintaining their own OSHC in accordance with their visa conditions. For official requirements refer to the Department of Home Affairs. Concord English College (T/A Unison Education and Training Pty Ltd | CRICOS 04003J).