Bupa Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Bupa Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Australia is a top choice for international students, offering high-quality education and a safe environment. As a student on a subclass 500 Student Visa, it is mandatory to maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) while in Australia. Bupa OSHC is a leading provider that ensures your health needs are met, your visa requirements are covered, and you have peace of mind during your studies.

Why Choose Bupa OSHC?

Bupa is one of Australia’s largest and most trusted health insurers. Bupa OSHC is tailored for international students, guardians, and temporary graduates, providing:

  • Full compliance with student visa health requirements
  • Access to a broad network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals
  • 24/7 multilingual support for healthcare assistance and emergencies
  • Easy claims process and digital management via the Bupa app

Bupa OSHC prioritises student well-being, allowing you to focus on your studies without worrying about unexpected medical costs.

Student Visa Requirements

For subclass 500 Student Visa holders, OSHC is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. Bupa OSHC policies meet all Australian Government requirements. Coverage also extends to spouses and dependent children accompanying the student.

Choice of Doctor or Specialist

Since international students are not covered under Medicare, Bupa OSHC allows you to choose your preferred doctors and specialists. You can access both public and private hospitals, depending on your treatment needs, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

24/7 Support & Health Services

Bupa OSHC members have access to:

  • Multilingual health advice and assistance
  • Counselling services and mental health support
  • Guidance on navigating the Australian healthcare system
  • Emergency assistance, including ambulance services

Optional Extras Coverage

Bupa OSHC allows students to add extras coverage for ancillary services such as:

  • Dental care
  • Optical services
  • Physiotherapy

This ensures comprehensive protection beyond standard medical and hospital cover.

What Does Bupa OSHC Cover?

Medical Cover

  • 100% of the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) fee for GP consultations and hospital medical services
  • 85% of MBS fee for specialist consultations and certain allied health services outside the hospital

Hospital Cover

  • Covers hospital services, including accommodation, ICU, surgery, in-hospital doctors, prostheses, and diagnostic tests
  • Coverage varies depending on whether treatment occurs in a public hospital, Bupa partner private hospital, or non-partner private hospital

Prescription Medicines

  • Covers the PBS-listed medications up to $50 per item
  • Maximum annual claim limits: $300 for singles, $600 for families
  • Over-the-counter medications are not covered

Making a Bupa OSHC Claim

Claims can be lodged in multiple ways:

  • Bupa App – Submit and track claims digitally
  • Online – Use the Bupa OSHC member portal
  • Mail – Send completed claim forms and receipts to the address provided by Bupa

Claims should be submitted within 2 years to ensure benefits are paid.

Refunds & Policy Cancellation

Bupa OSHC provides refunds in specific situations, including:

  • Not commencing your studies
  • Visa cancellation or change of status
  • Leaving Australia before visa expiry
  • Obtaining permanent residency or another visa

Optional extras coverage, like dental or optical, can be added or removed as needed.

Compare & Get Your Bupa OSHC Today

Bupa OSHC makes it easy for international students to compare policies, purchase the right cover, and receive their policy certificate instantly. Digital management through the Bupa app allows you to submit claims, access membership documents, and receive 24/7 support.

Students intending to apply for the 485 Temporary Graduate Visa can obtain 485 visa health insurance at www.485visainsurance.com.au.

Parents or guardians visiting on a subclass 600 Visitor Visa can purchase 8501-compliant visitor insurance at www.600visainsurance.com.au.