Students Health Insurance

Student Health Insurance in New Zealand

Studying abroad in New Zealand can be a wonderful experience for international students, but it also involves a unique set of challenges. For students from other countries, health insurance is one of the most important parts. While New Zealand citizens and permanent residents have access to the publicly financed New Zealand Public Health System (NZPHS), which provides free or low-cost healthcare services, international students do not and must have their own health insurance.

There are several health insurance policies for international students in New Zealand. Some of the most common options include:

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):

This is the student insurance New Zealand plan that the government has implemented for international students. It is offered by private health insurance companies and covers all prescription medicines, maternity coverage, medical and hospital expenses, and mental health services. The cost of the OSHC varies based on the provider and the length of coverage; however, it typically falls between NZD $350 and $500 per year. So international students must make arrangements for their OSHC before traveling to New Zealand.
University-Provided Student Health Insurance:

Some New Zealand universities and colleges may provide their students with health insurance policies. In comparison to the OSHC offered by the government, these plans could offer different coverage and benefits. They might also include extra services like dental and eye treatment. Before enrolling, students should check the terms and conditions of these policies because the cost and coverage of these plans can differ based on the university.
Private Health Insurance:

Some international students may choose to purchase private health insurance from a provider other than those who provide OSHC. This is an option if they want coverage that is more complete than OSHC or is tailored to their particular needs. Students with pre-existing medical conditions or those who want to engage in high-risk activities may find this to be very helpful. It's important to remember that, depending on the provider and the plan, private health insurance may be more expensive than OSHC and offer different coverage and benefits.

Overall, international students should be aware of their health insurance options and thoroughly research the coverage and plans before making a decision. They should also ensure that their health insurance is up to date and covers their entire stay in New Zealand. International students should also think about purchasing travel health insurance, which can cover them for unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents when they are traveling in New Zealand.