Overseas Student Health Cover Explained

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*iSelect does not provide a comparison service for Overseas Visitors Health Insurance. We provide a click through service through our website to a range of providers. Learn more.

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Updated 18/09/2024
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Updated 18/09/2024

What changed?

Expanded content, added helpful tip, updated sources
Our aim is to help you make better informed decisions. That’s why iSelect’s content is produced in accordance with our fact-checking and editorial guidelines.

Find out more about how we make money.

View our Privacy Policy.

What is overseas student health cover and why do I need it?  

Nobody likes to think they’ll run into medical issues while on the great adventure that is studying abroad. Nevertheless, as an international student, you must hold overseas student health cover for yourself and any dependents. That means if you bring your spouse or kids with you, they also need to be covered by your health insurance.   

Overseas student health cover (or OVHC) is a type of insurance and acts as a safety net in the case that you need to receive medical treatment while in Australia. So, if you sprain your ankle while hitting the dance floor at your favourite club or get sick after eating questionable leftovers, health cover means you’ll get world-class care with minimal costs.   

What is included in overseas student health cover?  

Typically, overseas student health cover only covers the basics. These include:   

  • Ambulance cover – If you need to travel to hospital by ambulance, your insurance will cover the cost.
  • Some medicines – Your insurance will likely cover the cost of certain prescription medications. If you need to buy non-prescription medicines (like some paracetamol for that hangover), you’ll need to pay for it yourself.
  • Some hospital treatments – Read the terms and conditions of any health cover you’re thinking about purchasing carefully to understand what treatment is covered.
  • Visits to a doctor – In Australia, general doctors are called general practitioners and are referred to as GPs. They’re your first stop if you’ve got a medical concern. Your overseas student health cover covers the cost of GP visits.   

Usually, services like dental, physiotherapy, and optical aren’t covered. Depending on your health cover provider, you might be able to add these to your cover as extras if you feel you need them.   

How do I apply for overseas student health cover?  

Ok, so now you know you need overseas student health cover. But how to get it? The good news is you’re not alone in navigating the world of health insurance. You can talk to your immigration agent if you have one, your educational institution if you’ve accepted an offer, or reach out to the friendly health comparison experts at iSelect to compare options across some of Australia’s leading health cover providers.   

When you apply for overseas student health cover, you’ll be asked about any pre-existing conditions you have. You must answer this question truthfully. If you have a pre-existing condition, you might have to wait a set amount of time (called a waiting period) until you can claim any related expenses.1Ombudsman – Pre-existing Conditions

No matter what else you do, you should always read the fine print. Product disclosure statements exist to give you detailed information on what is and isn’t covered by your insurance. You should read this carefully before you decide on a provider and level of cover.

Helpful Tip

Some countries have a Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with Australia, which might allow you to access parts of Australia’s public health system. However, this only exempts students from Sweden, Norway, or Belgium from purchasing overseas student health cover. Even if your home country has an RHCA with Australia, you will need additional overseas student health cover.

What else should I consider for overseas student health cover?  

Comparing overseas student health cover that fits your circumstances can be tricky, but there are a few things you can do to make the process easier:  

  • Consider your unique circumstances. Do you have a spouse or children that will come to Australia with you? These are considered your dependents and must be covered by your policy.
  • When should your overseas student health cover start? You must be covered from the moment you land in Australia, so you must purchase the insurance before arriving. You’ll need to show evidence that you’ve purchased health cover to apply for a student visa.
  • Think about what to do after graduation. When you finish studying, you won’t be eligible for overseas student health cover anymore. If you intend to stay in Australia past graduation, you should carefully check the health cover requirements of the visa type you want to apply for.   
  • Decide if you need extras. Many insurers offer extras that expand your cover. If you know you need glasses or could use a regular massage, it’s worth thinking about purchasing extras.  

Where can I find overseas student health cover

Not sure where to start? Jump online today to compare.   

*iSelect does not provide a comparison service for Overseas Visitors Health Insurance. We provide a click through service through our website to a range of providers. By clicking “Go To Site” button, you’ll be directed to the website of your chosen OVHC provider. iSelect is paid a commission by the provider calculated on a per click and per policy sold basis.