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If you’re coming to Australia on a Student Visa, you’ll quickly come across two important terms in healthcare: Medicare and OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover).
Many students ask:
These questions are common - and often misunderstood. This guide clearly explains how Medicare and OSHC work together, where they differ, and why OSHC remains mandatory for international students, even when Medicare access exists.
Medicare is Australia’s public healthcare system. It provides subsidised access to doctors, hospitals, and certain medical services for:
Medicare covers treatment in public hospitals and subsidises medical services listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS).
However, most international students are not eligible for full Medicare access, which is why OSHC exists.
OSHC is Mandatory for Student Visa Holders
Under Australian student visa conditions, international students must hold OSHC for the entire duration of their stay. This requirement exists regardless of whether a student is eligible for limited Medicare benefits.
OSHC is governed by the OSHC Deed, which ensures students can access healthcare without relying on Australia’s public health system.
In simple terms:
This is one of the most confusing aspects of OSHC.
OSHC Is Priced and Structured Using Medicare (MBS) Rates
OSHC policies calculate benefits based on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). For example:
This does not mean you are using Medicare. Instead:
This structure is mandated by the OSHC Deed to ensure consistent and fair coverage across providers.
Students from Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) Countries
Australia has reciprocal agreements with countries such as:
Students from these countries may be eligible for limited Medicare access.
However, even if you are eligible:
Most students end up using OSHC as their primary health cover, even when Medicare access exists.
The differences between Medicare and OSHC are important to understand.
Medicare vs OSHC for International Students
OSHC Covers More Than Medicare for Students
Medicare does not always cover:
OSHC fills these gaps and ensures students meet visa requirements. This is why the Department of Home Affairs requires continuous OSHC, even for students with Medicare access.
A good OSHC policy:
This allows students to access healthcare confidently without worrying about Medicare eligibility or gaps.
Q1. Can international students use Medicare instead of OSHC?
No. OSHC is mandatory for student visa holders, even if you qualify for limited Medicare access under a reciprocal agreement.
Q2. If I have Medicare, do I still need OSHC?
Yes. Visa conditions require OSHC for the entire stay, regardless of Medicare eligibility.
Q3. Why does OSHC mention Medicare fees if I’m not on Medicare?
OSHC uses the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) as a pricing benchmark, but your insurer pays the benefit - not Medicare.
Q4. Does OSHC cover everything Medicare does?
OSHC covers many services Medicare does, but under its own limits and rules. In some areas, OSHC provides broader protection for students.
Q5. Should I use Medicare or OSHC when visiting a doctor?
Most international students use OSHC as their primary cover. If you have Medicare access, your provider can guide you on the most appropriate option.
Medicare and OSHC often get confused - but they serve different purposes.
Even when Medicare access exists, OSHC remains essential for visa compliance, broader protection, and peace of mind.
By understanding how Medicare and OSHC interact, you can make better healthcare decisions and avoid unexpected costs during your studies in Australia.
You can explore OSHC options from trusted insurers such as nib, Bupa, Medibank, AHM, and Allianz Care on GetMyPolicy.online, helping you choose cover that aligns with both your visa requirements and healthcare needs.
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