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When choosing an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in Australia, it’s essential to understand the different options available. This guide provides a detailed comparison of all OSHC providers in Australia, including Allianz Care, NIB, BUPA, CBHS, AHM, and Medibank. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision to ensure you get the best coverage for your needs.

OSHC meaning and why it’s essential for international students in Australia

OSHC means Overseas Student Health Cover, and it’s mandatory insurance for international students in Australia. It helps cover the cost of medical treatments and hospital care, ensuring students have access to essential health services during their stay. Without OSHC, you could face significant out-of-pocket expenses for medical care. Additionally, you cannot apply for an Australian Student visa without a valid OSHC.

Short on time? Here are the answers to your most burning question: Which one is the cheapest?

Cheapest Single OSHC for an International Student in Australia

CBHS offers the cheapest Overseas Student Health Cover for a single student. As of September 2024, the 12-month policy costs $592.97.

Get a quote and purchase the most affordable single OSHC from CBHS here.

Cheapest OSHC for Couples

If you are applying for a Student visa with your partner, you may want to consider couples’ cover. As of September 2024, Bupa offers the most affordable OSHC for couples, with a 12-month policy costing $4,569.

Compare and purchase the cheapest Overseas Student Health Cover for couples from Bupa here.

Cheapest OSHC for Families

Allianz Care offers the most affordable Overseas Student Health Cover for families. If you and your partner are planning to come to Australia with children, a 12-month policy will cost $9,065.10.

See details and purchase your family OSHC from Allianz Care here.

Overview of All OSHC Providers in Australia

Allianz Care OSHC

Allianz Care offers comprehensive hospital and medical services, including inpatient and outpatient treatments. Key features include:

• Full coverage for public and private hospital accommodation.
• Coverage for GP visits, specialist consultations, and pathology.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Mental health services and repatriation.

NIB OSHC

NIB provides extensive coverage for medical services and hospital care. Highlights include:

• Full coverage for shared rooms in public hospitals and partial coverage for private hospitals.
• Coverage for GP and specialist consultations, as well as pathology.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Comprehensive mental health services.

BUPA OSHC

BUPA focuses on comprehensive care with a range of benefits:

• Full coverage for public hospital stays and partial for private hospitals.
• GP visits, specialist consultations, and pathology services covered.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Health and wellbeing programs.

CBHS OSHC

CBHS offers solid coverage with some unique features:

• Full coverage for public hospital stays and partial for private hospitals.
• Limited outpatient services coverage.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Online doctor services and a 24/7 assistance helpline.

AHM OSHC

AHM provides a straightforward and reliable OSHC plan:

• Comprehensive hospital and medical services coverage.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Mental health services and repatriation included.

Medibank OSHC

Medibank is known for its broad range of services:

• Full coverage for public and private hospital stays.
• Coverage for GP visits, specialist consultations, and pathology.
• Prescription medicines with a co-payment, capped annually.
• Emergency ambulance services.
• Comprehensive mental health services and repatriation.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing OSHC

When selecting an OSHC provider, consider the following factors:

• All providers are Student visa eligible: Even the most affordable OSHC is sufficient for your Australian Student visa application.
• Hospital Coverage: Ensure the plan covers both public and private hospital stays as needed.
• Medical Services: Look for comprehensive coverage for GP and specialist consultations, including pathology and diagnostic services.
• Prescription Medicines: Check the annual cap and co-payment requirements for medications.
• Additional Services: Evaluate the availability of mental health services, repatriation, and any extras like dental or optical cover.
• Waiting Periods: Be aware of any waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and other specific treatments.

OSHC usually doesn’t cover dental, optical, or physiotherapy treatments. You can find out more about Overseas Student Health Cover on the website of the Australian Department of Health and Age Care.

Making the Right Choice for Your Health Needs

Choosing the right OSHC provider can significantly impact your healthcare experience while studying in Australia. By comparing the offerings of Allianz Care, NIB, BUPA, CBHS, AHM, and Medibank, you can find a plan that best fits your health needs and financial situation. Ensure to read the policy documents carefully and consider any additional services or benefits that may be important to you.

Pro tip: Your OSHC policy must be valid for longer than the duration of your course. Find out more about the correct duration of your OSHC in our FAQs.

Conclusion: Secure Your Health with the Best OSHC

Securing the right OSHC is crucial for your peace of mind and well-being while studying in Australia. With this guide from Study Anywhere, you can make an informed decision and choose a provider that offers the best coverage for your needs. Whether you prioritize extensive hospital care, mental health support, or additional wellness programs, there is an OSHC plan that will meet your requirements.

For more detailed information, refer to the specific policy guides and member documents of each provider to understand the full scope of their services and coverage. If you have any questions, feel free to also reach to your Study Anywhere team.

In this article, we will showcase the most affordable options for bachelor degrees, master degrees, and diploma courses. When you enrol with Study Anywhere in any of these cheapest courses in Australia for international students, you receive free Student visa assistance from a registered migration agent.

This is very important especially now that Australia is tightening immigration policies, introduced new Genuine Student requirement, stricter rules around English-language proficiency, and financial capacity needed for a Student visa. These changes, along with a higher rate of visa refusals, make it more important than ever to seek expert guidance.

We’ll ensure you’ll be well-prepared to meet the stricter rules, ensuring a smoother application process and better chances of success.

Important Student visa update (July 2024): The Australian government has raised the price of a Student visa application to $1,600 AUD effective from the 1st of July 2024. Including an additional applicant (your partner or child) now also costs more. More details here.

Cheapest Student visa courses to study in Australia in 2024

Gone are the days when any random Management Diploma would suffice for Student visa grants in Australia. As you can see in the Student visa statistics released by the Australian Government, enroling in higher-quality or specialised courses greatly improves your visa grant chances. Not to say it also enhances your educational experience and your prospects of staying in Australia post-graduation.

There are two main reasons why you should consider higher-education programs in Australia (e.g. bachelor and master degrees) as an international student in 2024:

1. Student visa grant rates for bachelor and master degree applicants are much higher
2. Faster Student visa processing time – 45 days vs. 6 months with lower-level courses (on average)

Luckily, higher quality does not mean that you have to pay tens of thousands of dollars per year. Let’s have a look at the best cheapest courses in Australia for international students.

The cheapest bachelor degree in Australia for international students

Price: $13,000 per year

Where: Sydney, Melbourne

Valid until: 16. 9. 2024

Next intake date: 16. 9. 2024

If you are seeking the cheapest bachelor degree in Australia, the Australian Institute of Business Intelligence (AIBI) offers an unbeatable opportunity. AIBI has significantly discounted their Bachelor of Cyber Security, Bachelor of International Business, and Bachelor of Enterprise Management Systems programs by a whopping 40%. Instead of the usual $65,000 for a three-year program, the cost for these bachelor degrees is now just $13,000 per year. This price is valid if you are in Australia already. If you are offshore, the discount is 30% which is still fantastic for such high-demand fields. Instalment plans are available to make payments even more manageable.

AIBI has extended its promotion for these highly affordable unergraduate degrees, making it the perfect time to enrol for the September 2024 intake in both Sydney and Melbourne. Don’t forget that these bachelor programs may also unlock a 2-year 485 Temporary graduate visa for you (conditions apply).

To get started, contact us today and secure your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with an upfront payment of as little as $1,000. This limited-time offer makes AIBI one of the best options for obtaining a quality education at an affordable price. Don’t miss out on securing the cheapest bachelor degree in Australia while this promotion lasts!

The most affordable master degree in Australia for international students

Price: $14,364 per year

Where: Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide

Next census date: 20. 9. 2024 and 7. 2. 2025

For international students seeking the cheapest master degree in Australia, the Universal Business School Sydney (UBSS) offers a good Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. With majors in Accounting, IT Management, and Entrepreneurship (EMBA), UBSS provides specialised education tailored to your career goals.

UBSS, an independent MBA business school operating for over 30 years, has campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. Their MBA programs are priced at $31,920 for onshore students and $39,200 for offshore students. Instalment plans are available. Additionally, all onshore applications qualify for a 10% scholarship, reducing the total tuition fee to $28,728.

Enrolling in UBSS’s MBA not only offers a good-quality education at an affordable price but also enhances your chances of securing a Student visa. Contact us today to learn more and secure your Letter of Offer pretty much instantly upon submitting all required documents.

Affordable courses in high-demand fields in Australia for international students

Price: $10,360 per year

Where: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide

Next intake dates: 4. 10. 2024 and 31. 5. 2025

We have an additional discount for the October intake. Please read below.

International students seeking budget-friendly education in high-demand fields will find excellent options at the Australian Learning Group (ALG). ALG offers courses in Aged Care, Community Services, Counselling, Mental Health, Early Childhood Education and Care, Fitness, and Yoga. These programs cost $2,590 per term ($10,360 per year), except for Fitness and Yoga, which are $2,190 per term ($8,760 per year). Alternatively, you can also choose a monthly payment plan.

ALG operates with a solid reputation and has campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. These courses not only prepare you for high-demand jobs in Australia but also make you eligible for a Student visa in Australia. Completing some of the ALG courses can also qualify you for a 485 Graduate visa, allowing you to stay longer and work full-time.

Moreover, ALG’s partnership with Ikon Institute of Australia lets you pursue bachelor degrees more quickly and affordably. The skills you gain from ALG’s courses position you well for some of Australia’s most in-demand jobs, enhancing your chances of securing sponsorship or finding pathways to permanent residency.

Update (17th of August 2024): ALG announced an additional discount specifically for the October 2024. If you enrol now with Study Anywhere, you’ll receive $595 off.

Contact us today to learn more about enroling in these high-demand courses at ALG and take the next step toward your future in Australia.

The cheapest Diploma course in Australia for international students

Price: $6,000 per year

Where: Sydney

Next intake dates: 8. 10. 2024, 4. 11. 2024 and 28. 1. 2025

ELC Career College in Sydney offers an affordable and low-risk option for international students seeking the cheapest diploma course in Australia.

ELC Career College has been operating since 1985 and is rated as Evidence Level 1, making it one of the least risky international colleges. The college offers diploma courses in Business, Leadership and Management, Marketing and Communication, and Project Management for just $6,000 per year ($1,500 per term). This makes ELC Career College one of the most affordable choices for international students. With ELC in Sydney, we can customise the duration of your studies (and Student visa) based on your plans from 9 months to more than 3 years.

There are also cheaper options; however, we only recommend these to applicants from low-risk countries (e.g., Europe and North America) due to the Australian government’s risk rating system. A higher risk rating (evidence level) of a school can slow down and lower your chances of securing a student visa. If you are a European or North American student, feel free to reach out, and we can help you study in Australia for $1,350 per term ($5,400 per year).

Update (19th of August 2024): There is a new cheapest course for international students in Australia. One of our partner schools has an introductory offer for a new Certificate IV in Project Management course. Enrol now and pay only $1,250 ($5,000 per year). This versatile course will teach you how to effectively plan, manage, and execute projects and resources, as well as how to communicate effectively and lead a team. The Certificate IV in Project Management is a one-year course but can also be combined with Diploma and Advanced Diploma courses for a two- or four-year Student visa course package.

Contact Study Anywhere today to learn more about enrolling in these cheap courses for international students. Secure your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with a low upfront payment.

OSHC Australia: Get the cheapest OSHC for your Student visa to save even more

Now that you know what are the cheapest courses in Australia for international students in 2024, we have one more tip on how you can save even more. When applying for a Student visa, don’t forget to also compare and get the cheapest Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This is mandatory insurance for all international students and you can save hundreds of dollars (or even thousands if you need a couple’s OSHC cover) by comparing all available OSHC providers. These are the cheapest ones in September 2024:

All prices in this article are in Australian Dollars (AUD). Please note that when you are applying for an Australian Student visa, except for the tuition fee and OSHC, you will also need to pay the increased application fee (charged by the Department of Home Affairs) we mentioned earlier in the article.

Get your free quote for the whole package here or reach out to us via Messenger to speak with one of our colleagues. Join students from 60+ countries and study in Australia with Study Anywhere.

Are you an international student planning to study in Australia in 2024? Are you looking for scholarships to help finance your education? Look no further! In this blog post, we will discuss three institutes that are offering attractive scholarships in Australia for international students in 2024. These scholarships are fairly easy to apply for when you enrol with Study Anywhere and more importantly, with some of these programs, you also have the opportunity for a 2-year Graduate visa after completing your studies. Read on to find out more!

September 2024 update: New 50% scholarship for Bachelor of IT and Diploma of IT courses

The Academy of Interactive Technology (AIT) is opening a special intake this October. International students applying for this intake are eligible for an exclusive 50% scholarship on both Diploma and Bachelor of IT programs. This opportunity requires quick action to meet the deadlines, so if you’re interested, please contact us as soon as possible.

AIBI: Affordable Bachelor Degrees in Australia with a 40% Scholarship for International Students

If you are interested in pursuing a Business or Cyber Security degrees, the Australian Institute of Business Intelligence (AIBI) has a great offer for you and you can now save $26,000 on these programs:

The standard price for these degrees is $65,000 but if you enrol with Study Anywhere now, you can study any of them for $39,000 ($13,000 per year). This includes free assistance with your Student visa application from our registered migration agent.

Interested in knowing more? Get in touch with our enrolment team.

Who’s Eligible for This Scholarship?

International applicants who are in Australia already. It’s great if you are holding a Visitor visa or a Work and Holiday visa but almost any valid Australian visa will make you eligible as long as you can apply for another Student visa onshore (your current visa does not have the ‘No further stay’ condition). You can take advantage of this scholarship for international students even if you are currently studying in Australia and are about to complete your current course.

You need to enrol in either the February or May 2024 intake to qualify for this extraordinary scholarship. Campus choice is up to you and AIBI offers courses in Sydney and in Melbourne.

Update (May 2024): AIBI is extending this scholarship offer to the September 2024 intake as well.

And what if you’re not currently in Australia? A generous 30% scholarship awaits you, translating to almost $20,000 in savings on your bachelor program.

Scholarships in Australia with a Hassle-Free Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Contact Study Anywhere, and we’ll ensure you get your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with a minimal upfront payment of just $1,000. Our team will guide you through the enrolment and visa application process step-by-step and free of charge.

Ikon Institute of Australia: Up to 35% Scholarships for International Students

For those of you interested in Early Childhood Education, Counselling and Psychotherapy, or Arts Therapy Bachelor and Diploma programs, the Ikon Institute of Australia is the place to be. Enrolling with Study Anywhere for any 2024 intake can earn you a scholarship of 35% for Arts Therapy & Counselling and Psychotherapy Programs and a 25% scholarship for Early Childhood Education Programs.

The 4-year Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at Ikon now costs only $15,000 per year. While this may still seem like a significant investment, it is important to consider the benefits. Not only will you receive a quality education, but you may also have the opportunity to stay in Australia after graduation with a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa.

Two new Australian scholarships for international students (January 2024 update)

The Australian Learning Group (ALG) has introduced two exciting scholarships for international students.

The first scholarship offers a 25% discount on all ALG courses in Brisbane. You can choose from courses in Aged Care, Early Childhood Education and Care, Fitness, and more. For example, the Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) will now cost you only $7,770 per year, with a monthly payment plan available.

Update (May 2024): This scholarship offer has now been discontinued by ALG.

The second ALG scholarship for international students provides a 25% discount on the Diploma of Leadership and Management course, available in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. After the discount, this course will also cost you $7,770 per year.

New York Film Academy Australia is Offering a Talent Based Scholarship

If you’re an aspiring filmmaker or actor, grab the opportunity to save up to $7,000 when you kickstart your course on the vibrant Gold Coast in February 2024. Talent-based scholarships for international students are now open at the New York Film Academy (NYFA) Australia for the Advanced Diploma of Screen & Media and the Diploma of Screen & Media.

Demonstrate your talent by submitting your application before the January 19, 2024 deadline.

Upon successful course completion in Australia, eligible students can seamlessly transfer credits to the degree program offered by the New York Film Academy in the US.

Apply for Your Australian Scholarship Now

How to get one of the scholarships for international students at the AIBI, Ikon Institute, or NYFA? All you need to do is contact us as soon as possible while spots last. Our team at Study Anywhere is ready to assist you with your enrolment, scholarship application, and also with your Student visa application.

TIP: Read about how to successfully apply for a Student visa in Australia.

Looking for Even More Affordable Courses?

You can study in Australia for as little as $5,600 / year. Check out the most affordable courses for international students right now in this blog article.

International students heading to Australia, there are some updates you should be aware of before you make your way down under. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the latest changes to the Student Visa in Australia, and what you need to know to prepare.

October 2023 Update: Change in How Much Bank Balance is Required for an Australian Student Visa

The Australian government is increasing the amount of financial capacity (also known as ‘show money’) required for a Student visa application. In our FAQs, you can find out more about how this is calculated and whether you need to provide a bank statement when applying for an Australian Student visa or not. Hint: Not everyone has to show the proof upfront.

The important number is $24,505 AUD, which international students should estimate as their living costs for one year in Australia. It used to be $21,041 AUD.

The End of Full-Time Work Rights for International Students

One of the biggest changes in 2023 is the end of full-time work rights for international students, with the changes set to take effect on the 30th of June 2023. The Government is still yet to announce how many hours per fortnight this will be capped for, and if it will revert back to the pre-covid limit of 40 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. Let’s hope unrestricted working hours will stay in place at least during the term breaks as it was before. So if you’re already in Australia, enjoy your full-time work rights until the end of June and if you’re just planning to come, reach out to Study Anywhere so we can help you with an affordable course that offers the longest term breaks (up to 16 weeks per year).

Update (February 2023): The new work restriction for Student Visa holders has now been specified. From the 1st of July 2023, international students will be allowed to work 48 hours per fortnight in Australia. While this isn’t good news for most students, at least there is a 20% increase in the number of hours foreign students can work in Australia. Pre-pandemic this limit was at 40 hours per fortnight. We still expect unlimited work rights during the term breaks, however, we’re waiting for the Department of Home Affairs to confirm this.

Small Price Increase of the Student Visa in Australia Since Last Year

International students should also be aware of a recent adjustment in the cost of the Student Visa in Australia. Since July 2022, the visa fee has gone up to $650 AUD for a single applicant. Slight increase but manageable. Just keep in mind that the Department of Home Affairs will charge you more if you are applying for a Student Visa with your partner or renewing your visa onshore for the second or subsequent time.

Update (July 2023): Student visa fee in Australia is increasing again. From the 1st of July 2023, the Department of Home Affairs will charge you $710 AUD when you lodge a single student visa application.

More Affordable Study Options with Study Anywhere

In addition to the increased cost of the visa, courses for international students in Australia are also becoming more expensive. The inflation stuff, you know. However, at Study Anywhere, we can still help you find a course that will fit your budget, with options starting as low as $4,400 AUD per year.

TIP: Here are the cheapest Student Visa courses for 2024 – check them out!

Longer Duration of Graduate Visas 

On the plus side, another important change for international graduates in 2023 is the longer duration of some graduate visas. The Australian Government announced the increase in the duration of post-study work rights of international students to address the skill shortages. Post-study work rights for select degrees in some areas are increased from:

• Two years to four years for select Bachelor’s degrees like this Bachelor of Information Technology (Games Programming) at AIT
• Three years to five years for select Master’s degrees
• Four years to six years for select PhDs.

COVID-19 Testing Requirements for Travel to Australia

The pandemic is not completely over yet and although the Australian borders are fully open since December 2021, new measures have been put in place for travelers entering Australia, including international students. As of 2023, people entering Australia from China, including Hong Kong and Macau, must provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of the day of travel. This requirement is subject to change and updates, so it’s important to stay informed of the latest developments and to plan accordingly.

Online Courses Still Available with Study Anywhere

While online course delivery to international students in Australia wasn’t allowed pre-pandemic, this has changed and the regulations became more flexible. However, many schools are slowly moving back to on-campus delivery mode. If you still prefer to take most of your classes online, or just 1-2 days per week on campus, let us know and we can help you with that.

Update (July 2023): Colleges for international students are returning back to face to face course delivery. However, up to one-third of the course can still be completed online. Contact us and we can recommend you the most flexible schools in Australia. Even one day per week timetable is possible.

Stay Informed and Prepared with Study Anywhere

For the most up-to-date information, don’t forget to always check the website of the Australian Department of Home Affairs and also keep an eye on our blog and FAQs. You can also always send us a message to enrol and get free help with your Student Visa application from a registered migration agent. Study Anywhere has helped students from 60+ countries to study in Australia since 2015.

After 18 months, the international border ban will be lifted. What does that mean for international students?

Can’t wait to travel to Australia? You could be packing soon as the country is going to lift the travel ban one month prior to the initial schedule. The reason for it is that Australia is hitting the required vaccination targets quicker than expected. Qantas will resume its international flights on the 14th of November 2021. 

The first states to re-open will be New South Wales and Victoria. In the first phase, only Australian citizens and permanent residents will be allowed to leave and come back to Australia. 

However, there is a plan for international students to return to Australia too.

First international students will return to Australia in December 2021

The first international students will start returning to New South Wales on December 4th, 2021. This is a pilot program allowing a limited number of 250 international students to return to Australia every two weeks. These students will have to be vaccinated and undergo quarantine in purpose-built student accommodation in Sydney. 

Update 12th of November 2021: Students vaccinated with a recognised Covid-19 vaccine will not have to undergo quarantine.

Update 22nd of November 2021: The long-awaited change is here. Fully vaccinated International students can come to Australia again. No quarantine is required. The borders will reopen on the 1st of December 2021.

If the pilot program succeeds, we expect that the Australian government will gradually increase the number of international students allowed to come to Australia. Our partner schools are getting ready for exceptionally large intakes in 2022.

Now is the right time to enrol

If you are thinking of coming to Australia in 2022 you should consider enroling now. There are two reasons for that:

1. Price – once the borders are fully open, we expect that schools will end their current promotions and swiftly go back to pre-covid prices. If you choose your course for the next year now, you can save thousands of dollars.
2. Waiting times – enrolments and Student Visa applications will likely take longer when a large number of students will be enroling and applying for Student Visas at the same time.

Join our priority list

Do you want to be notified as soon as you can come to Australia? Request a free quote and we will add you to our priority list.

Also, don’t forget to check our list of the most affordable courses for international students in Sydney or Melbourne.

If you have any questions, please check our FAQs or send us a message.