Overseas Student Health Cover

Before you apply for your international student visa to study in Australia, you must buy Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

OSHC allows access to Australia’s health services. It helps you stay safe and get support while you study. This page explains how OSHC works and what it means for you.

OSHC stands for Overseas Student Health Cover. It’s health insurance that all international students must have while studying in Australia. OSHC helps pay for medical costs during your stay. This can include visits to the doctor, hospital and other health services.

If you’re an international student doing formal studies in Australia, you and your dependents must have OSHC. Read the OSHC factsheet for more details about what you need.

Many insurance companies offer OSHC to international students in Australia. We recommend Medibank as the preferred provider and we can arrange the insurance for you. If you prefer, you can also choose another OSHC provider yourself.

Things to think about when choosing OSHC:

• Check your policy details and the product disclosure statement to know what’s covered.
• Extras cover can give you access to more services, but usually costs more.
• Most OSHC providers do not cover pre-existing medical conditions. If you have a serious condition, get treatment before coming to Australia.
  
  

Buy OSHC with Medibank via TAFE NSW International

TAFE NSW International works with Medibank Private to make buying OSHC easier. Follow 2 steps:

1. Tell TAFE NSW International to arrange your OSHC with Medibank Private when you apply.
2. Pay your OSHC fees included in your invoice.
   
   

Comprehensive OSHC with Medibank Private

Medibank Private also offers comprehensive OSHC. It includes extra services beyond the government minimum.

Visit the Medibank Comprehensive OSHC website or call 134 148 to see what’s included. TAFE NSW receives an administration fee from Medibank Private for arranging your OSHC.

Keep your OSHC active for your entire time in Australia. You need it for your student visa and to enter Australia. Staying covered also protects you if you need medical help.

Contact the TAFE NSW International team if you have questions about your OSHC membership.