Planning to study in Australia? And OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is an essential requirement for your student visa (Subclass 500).
But here’s the thing: a lot of international students pay too much for OSHC — simply because they don’t compare other providers.
The cheapest vs. the most expensive OSHC plans can differ by hundreds of dollars a year!
In this guide we’ll outline the cheapest options for OSHC Australia, costs, and how you can get coverage without breaking the bank.
How Much Does OSHC Cost in Australia (2026)?
How much OSHC can cost will vary, depending on your provider, the duration and type of coverage.
Average Cost:
- Single student: $600 – $750 per year
- Couple: $4,200 -$5,600 per year
- Family: Higher depending on members
The price difference depends on how long the visa is required and which provider you choose.
Cheapest OSHC Providers in Australia
Some of the cheapest OSHC providers are:
| Provider | Price Range | Best For |
| ahm | Cheapest | Budget students |
| nib | Affordable | Flexible plans |
| Allianz | Mid-range | Good coverage |
| Medibank | Balanced | Support services |
| Bupa | Higher | Large network |
ahm is one of the most affordable OSHC providers in Australia.
Importance of Comparing OSHC Plans
Many students opt for the provider a university has recommended without exploring other possibilities. Most people overpay here
Similar coverage at different prices from different providers. When comparing OSHC Australia plans, you are able to:
- Save $300–$1000 easily
- Choose better coverage
- Avoid unnecessary extras
A quick check can go a long way.
How to Get the Cheapest OSHC Australia
Follow these tips to save money:
- Compare Multiple Providers
Compare ahm, nib, Bupa and others — don’t just go with one option.
- Choose Basic Coverage
If you’re cost conscious, skip the frills.
- Match Your Visa Duration
Some, however, are much better than others following our top tips.. Buy only what you need.
- Check for Discounts
Certain providers even have promotional discounts or deals.
Compare OSHC Plans & Save Money
It is always better to make a choice instead of blind selection compare OSHC Australia plans to find the best option for you at the lowest price.
FAQs
Is OSHC mandatory for international students?
Yes, OSHC is mandatory for Subclass 500 visa holders.
Which is the cheapest OSHC provider?
ahm are one of the cheapest providers in Australia a lot of the time.
Can I switch OSHC providers?
Yes, you can switch at will after checking plan details.
Conclusion
Finding the cheapest OSHC Australia doesn’t mean you should just go for the absolute lowest price — it’s about finding the right balance between cost and coverage.
A lot of students overpay just because they don’t shop around before purchasing. You could save hundreds while still fulfilling those visa requirements when you compare providers such as ahm, nib, Allianz and Bupa.
Spend a couple of minutes now comparing OSHC plans, and choose the right one for your budget and requirements.