Cheapest OSHC in 2026: how the 5 providers compare
Price is usually the first thing students compare — but the cheapest premium is not always the best value. Here is how the five DHA-approved OSHC providers line up on indicative single, 12-month premiums from public 2026 rate sheets.
Indicative single premiums (12 months, AUD)
| Provider | From (single / yr) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| nib | $585 | Typically the lowest base premium |
| ahm | $602 | Backed by the Medibank group |
| Allianz Care | $622 | Large overseas student network |
| Bupa | $650 | Biggest direct network, broad extras |
| Medibank | $668 | Largest Australian health insurer |
These are indicative figures. Your actual price depends on age, the level of cover, your start date and any promotions.
What drives the price?
- Cover type — single, couple and family policies scale up sharply.
- Length of cover — longer policies cost more but sometimes unlock a small per-month discount.
- Extras — dental, optical and other add-ons raise the premium.
- Age — some insurers tier pricing by age band.
Is cheapest best?
Not necessarily. A slightly higher premium can mean a larger direct network, faster extras claims or better digital tools. The right choice is the one that fits your needs at a fair price — which is exactly what a side-by-side comparison is for.
Compare for real
Use our comparison tool to estimate couple and family costs across all five providers for your stay.