How much is health insurance for international students? How much is health insurance in USA for international students?

The cost of health insurance for international students in the USA varies based on factors such as age, coverage, deductible, and the specific plan. Plans on American Visitor Insurance are generally more affordable than those offered by universities, and can be customized to fit student budgets and needs.

Do international students get health insurance?

Yes. Many universities and U.S. visa types require international students to have health insurance. Students can purchase university-sponsored insurance or choose private plans such as those offered on American Visitor Insurance, which often offer similar benefits at lower costs.

Do F1 students need health insurance?

While the U.S. government does not mandate health insurance for F1 students, most educational institutions do. Given the high cost of healthcare in the U.S., it is strongly recommended that F1 students purchase health insurance for their own protection.

Which insurance is best for international students in USA?

The best insurance depends on the student's needs, budget, and school requirements. American Visitor Insurance offers a variety of student medical insurance plans with comprehensive coverage, provider networks, and competitive pricing. It's important to compare plans based on coverage, cost, provider access, and added benefits.

Why do international students need health insurance in the US?

Health insurance is essential for international students in the U.S. due to high medical costs, university requirements, visa compliance, and to ensure access to medical services. It provides financial protection, emergency care access, and peace of mind while studying abroad.

International Student Insurance cost, cheapest health insurance for international students in USA, international student health insurance USA

What factors affect the cost of health insurance for international students?

Student's age: The student's age determines the cost of US student medical insurance. The prices for best health insurance for f1 students in USA increases with the age of the student. F1 visa health insurance cost for students under 20 ranges from $30 to $450 monthly or $400 to $4,200 annually.
Duration of coverage: The health insurance for f1 students cost increases with the duration of coverage required. The cheapest student insurance can be either monthly or on a daily basis.
Maximum coverage: Lower medical maximum, the cost of F1 student health insurance is less expensive; the higher the maximum medical coverage limit, leads to higher premiums.
Deductibles and Co-insurance: Lower deductibles means the student pays less out-of-pocket when using the student insurance plan and lower coinsurance, (the percentage the student pays for most medical costs after the deductible), will also have higher premiums.
Type of student health insurance: University-sponsored health insurance plans are often mandatory and offers comprehensive coverage, but usually are more expensive and are less flexible. The private health insurance that are available on American Visitor Insurance meet the university requirements at the affordable cost and offer greater flexibility.
Coverage region: Health insurance cost in USA for international students varies depending on the country the student will be studying in. Student medical insurance in the US is typically more expensive than in many other countries.
Optional add-on benefits or Riders: Additional coverage like adventure sports, personal liability, evacuation upgrades, or mobile device protection can increase the overall cost of the insurance plan.

What are the types of international student health insurance?

University-sponsored health insurance plans

Most U.S. colleges and universities offer their own student health insurance plans for all students including for international students. These plans usually offer comprehensive coverage and include access to on-campus health center.

However, these plans are often quite expensive and included with the tuition fees. In case if a student decides to choose a different plan, they need to submit a waiver form before the university’s deadline and ensure this alternative plan meets the school/university’s requirements.

US private health insurance plans

Alternatively, international students can buy private health insurance like those offered on American Visitor Insurance. Here, we work with the top US insurance providers and offered more affordable student insurance plans when compared to the university insurance plans. These plans offer flexible coverage options particularly designed for international students on F1/F2, J1/J2, OPT, or exchange programs. Student health insurance plans include benefits such as emergency medical treatment, mental health services, maternity coverage and coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions after a waiting period.

Students can compare cost, benefits and buy the best international student health insurance that meets the university waiver requirements. Another advantage of the private student insurance plans is that they can be easily transferred if the student switched colleges, or is traveling on vacation within the US. It also works well when students are in a different location from the main campus if on an internship or in the OPT status. Some of the private student insurance plans also provide coverage for students who participate in sporting activity, something typical University policies do not offer.

Short term visitor insurance plans

For international students during enrollment periods or those on OPT, short-term visitor insurance could be a cheaper option to fill coverage gaps. This is particularly useful for the students who arrive in the US a few days or weeks ahead of the start of the academic term as university insurance usually activates only at the start of the semester. Visitor medical insurance plans do not meet university waiver requirements but they provide temporary medical coverage during these transitions times and help protect against unexpected health expenses which can be very costly in the US.

What does international student insurance cover?

International student medical insurance is designed for students studying outside their home country, particularly in the US. It offers wide range of medical and emergency services. While the benefits can vary based on the plan and the insurance provider, most of insurance policies include the following essential coverage areas:

Medical coverage: It offers coverage for emergency medical services, doctor visits hospital stays, emergency room visits, surgical procedures etc…
Prescription medications: Coverage for medications prescribed by a doctor during the treatment.
Emergency medical evacuation: Covers expenses incurred to transport the student's to their home country or to another facility that has the capability to provide appropriate care if needed.
Pharmacy drugs: Doctor prescribed eligible pharmacy drugs are covered up to $50,000, but this varies from plan to plan.
Repatriation of remains: The policy covers the expenses incurred to return the remains to the home country in case of death.
Mental health coverage: Some student medical insurance plans offers coverage for mental health such as such as therapy or counseling.
Maternity coverage: Student insurance plans cover maternity expenses for a pregnancy that begins after the policy becomes effective. Student Secure , Student Health Advantage Platinum and Student Journey plans are some of the popular options that include maternity benefits.
Pre-existing conditions coverage: Student health insurance plans may cover pre-existing conditions but they have a minimum 6 or 12 months of waiting period. Most of the plans provide coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
Preventive care services: Very few student plans provide coverage for preventive care and wellness checkup. The Navigator for Student plan from Geoblue provides coverage for preventive care services.
Sports coverage: Many international student insurance plans include coverage for recreational or intercollegiate sports, although high-risk or professional-level sports often require an additional rider.

While studying abroad, international student health insurance provides the necessary coverage for unforeseen medical treatment. Always review the policy brochure, understand the coverage limits and make sure it complies with the waiver requirements of your school to ensure comprehensive coverage.

What should I look for in USA student insurance for international students?

Below are the most important factors to consider while choosing best student insurance plans for studying abroad:

Coverage limits: Look for the Student medical insurance plans that offers generally policy maximum ranging from $50,000 to $5 million to cover required medical expenses.
Deductible, Co-insurance and Co-pay: Often times students are confused while understanding the difference between deductible^?, co-insurance^? and co-pay^?. All the three represent a portion of the medical bill that you as customer might incur in case of any unexpected sickness and injury which is otherwise going to be out of pocket expense.
Meets university waiver requirements: International students must either enroll in their own health plan or provide proof of equivalent coverage at many US colleges and universities. Make sure that the plan you select meets your school's waiver requirements.
Coverage for emergency medical services: student medical insurance plans include coverage for prescription drugs, hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency services, and outpatient care. Additional benefits like maternity, mental health, and adventure sports are often required by universities.
Pre-existing condition and maternity coverage: If you have an ongoing health condition or may need maternity care, ensure the plan includes these benefits. Popular plans like Student Secure or Student Health Advantage Platinum and Student Journey include coverage for these benefits.
Coverage for dependents (F2 Visa Holders): If you are traveling with your spouse or children make sure the plan offers dependent coverage. There is one plan that covers just the F2 without F1 being on the same plan. This is an exceptional case. In some cases we come across students on F1 having their school health insurance for themselves and are looking for private insurance for their spouse who is on F2. Patriot Exchange Patriot Exchange is a plan that satisfies this condition and is popular student plan for such case.
Provider network and direct billing: International student health insurance plans which have access to strong PPO networks like UnitedHealthcare or First Healthcare offer broader access to hospitals and doctors, and make it easier to use direct billing so you don’t have to pay upfront.
Multilingual customer service: Look for the plan that offers 24/7 multilingual 24/7 assistance to help you understand claims procedures, and strong support in case of emergencies or policy questions.
Sports coverage: If international students are participating in recreational or school-sponsored sports make sure the plan covers sports-related injuries, especially for intercollegiate or intramural activities.
Visa requirements (F1, J1, OPT): If you are on an F-1, J-1, or OPT status, your insurance should meet U.S. visa health insurance requirements.

How Much Does F1 Student Health Insurance Cost In The US In 2025?

How much is Low-cost medical insurance for international students in America? How much does Insurance for foreign students in America cost per month?

The monthly cost of international student insurance for USA ranges from $30 to $124, depending on the level of coverage selected.

Insurance Plans	Policy maximum	Deductible	Cost
Student Journey Lite IMG	$150,000	$100	$30
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips	$200,000	$0	$32
Student Journey Plus IMG	$300,000	$500	$48
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips	$500,000	$0	$53
Patriot Exchange IMG	$50,000	$250	$56
Diplomat America Global Underwriters	$50,000	$250	$71
Student Journey Platinum IMG	$500,000	$250	$74
StudentSecure Select WorldTrips	$1,000,000	$0	$106
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG	$500,000	$250	$124

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

What Affects the Cost?

Several factors influence the price, including:

Student’s age
Coverage duration
Policy maximum & medical benefits
Deductible and co-insurance levels
Optional add-ons (e.g., maternity, mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports and coverage for pre-existing ailments)

International student health insurance USA

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Which are the best health insurance providers for International students in USA?

Choosing the best health insurance for international students in the USA depends on personal needs, budget, university requirements, and visa status. Here are some top providers:

Best health insurance providers for international students in the USA are:

International Medical Group (IMG)

Offers a wide range of plans like Student Journey, designed for international students seeking affordable coverage for medical expenses and hospitalization.

WorldTrips

Provides plans like StudentSecure Smart starting at $31/month with $0 deductible, covering emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and repatriation.

GeoBlue

Offers the Navigator Student plan with unlimited medical maximum, global provider access, and coverage for U.S. and international students.

Which is the popular health insurance for international students in USA?

Patriot Exchange Program ^IMG

Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
Pre-existing condition: Comprehensive plan with high medical maximum and pre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months of waiting period.
Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months.
Patriot Exchange Program insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $56 per month ($675 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.

Policy maximum^?
$50,000 to $5,000,000
Deductible options^?
$0 to $500
Period of coverage^?
1 month up to 12 months

Student Journey Platinum ^IMG

Ideal for : J1, F1, A1 and M1 visas, Adventure Sports, Maternity
Pre-existing condition: Covers after 6 months of waiting period
Mental health: Out Patient : Max 40 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to 30 days max
Direct Billing: United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.
Student Journey Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $74 per month ($888 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.

Policy maximum^?
$500,000
Deductible options^?
$250
Period of coverage^?
30 days to 12 months

StudentSecure Select Insurance ^Worldtrips

Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 30 visits, Inpatient: Max 30 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
Direct Billing: United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
Student Secure Select insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $106 per month ($1248 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.

Policy maximum^?
$1,000,000
Deductible options^?
$0
Period of coverage^?
30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Standard ^IMG

Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from 118 per month ($1,416 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available. Offers high policy maximum and good coverage for various medical emergencies.

Policy maximum^?
$500,000
Deductible options^?
$250
Period of coverage^?
1 month up to 12 months

StudentSecure Elite Insurance ^Worldtrips

Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 40 visits, Inpatient: Max 40 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
Direct Billing: United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
Student Secure Elite insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $181 per month ($2135 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.

Policy maximum^?
$1,000,000
Deductible options^?
$0
Period of coverage^?
30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Platinum ^IMG

Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports, Maternity
Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
Direct Billing: First healthcare network or United HealthCare
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $353 per month ($4,236 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.

Policy maximum^?
$1,000,000
Deductible options^?
$100
Period of coverage^?
1 month up to 12 months

What is the best medical evacuation insurance for international students?

International students may need medical evacuation and repatriation insurance to meet visa or school requirements.

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Atlas MedEvac Insurance

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Designed for Study abroad student seeking supplemental Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage to meet school or visa requirements.
Offers coverage to international students and visitors traveling to the U.S.
Available for people age above 14 days and below 50 years.
Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage is available for up to $50,000.
This plan can be available from 5 days to 365 days.
Repatriation of remains coverage is available for up to $25,000.

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Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance

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Offers coverage for International students or scholars.
Medical Evacuation and Repatriation provides annual coverage that meets J Visa and other visa requirements.
Any non US citizen and non US resident who is travelling to the United States and Participating in full-time educational activities can buy this plan. You are not required to have a visa.
Available from 5 days to 364 days.
Available for people age above 14 days and below 65 years.

Student health insurance FAQ's

The cost of US student health insurance varies significantly depending on different factors such as the insurance provider, the age of the student, the deductible, the co-insurance, the medical coverage amount and the specific plan chosen.
Here are some key points to consider while buying student insurance for USA in American Visitor insurance:

University/College Plans: The plans on American Visitor Insurance are more affordable compared to student plans offered by different universities.
Coverage Level: The cost of the student medical insurance plan depends on the extent of coverage it provides. Plans with higher coverage levels and lower deductibles typically have higher premiums.
Deductibles and Coinsurance: Plans with higher deductibles (the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance kicks in) and higher Co-insurance (a fixed amount you pay for certain services) may have lower premiums.
Age and Health: The age and health of the student will be taken into account when determining the premium. Younger and healthier individuals will have lower premiums.

Keep in mind that student health insurance costs can change over time, and there may be new plans or regulations in place since my last update. It's essential to research and compare different insurance options on American Visitor Insurance to find a plan that fits your specific needs and budget. If you are an international student looking for health insurance, We recommend using the compare student insurance plans tool to explore the health insurance options available to you on American Visitor Insurance.

Yes, in fact many international students studying in the United States are required to have student health insurance coverage to satisfy University needs. The specific requirements for student health insurance varies depending on the educational institution, state regulations, and the type of visa the student holds.
Some key points to consider:

University/College Requirements: Most US universities and colleges have specific health insurance requirements for international students. Universities may mandate that all enrolled international students purchase and maintain a specific health insurance plan that meets certain criteria. Student insurance plans offered on American Visitor Insurance are comparable to University insurance plans but are cheaper and with similar benefits.
Visa Requirements: The US government also has specific health insurance requirements for certain visa types. For example, J-1 and J-2 visa holders (Exchange Scholars) are generally required to have health insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by the United States Department of State.
Coverage and Benefits: The required student health insurance plans typically need to provide a minimum level of coverage for medical services, hospitalization, emergency care, and repatriation of remains, among other benefits.
Waivers: International students who buy student insurance on American Visitor Insurance and have comparable health insurance coverage may apply for a waiver to the university's insurance requirement. Usually, the existing coverage must meet or exceed the university's specified criteria.

At American Visitor Insurance we offer the best US student medical insurance plans from top rated insurance providers

International students on the F1 visa are not required by any government agency to have international student insurance when studying in the USA. However, given the very high cost of healthcare in the United States, most schools have their own requirements and often require international students to buy health insurance.

International students need US students health insurance for several important reasons:

Mandatory Requirement: Many universities and colleges in the US mandate that all enrolled students, including international students have proper health insurance. It is often a condition of enrollment and registration.
Healthcare Costs:Healthcare in the USA is extremely expensive, and having health insurance helps cover the costs of medical services, doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, and emergency care is really a necessity. Without student health insurance, international students may face significant financial burdens if they need medical attention.
Medical Emergencies: Accidents and unexpected illnesses can happen at any time especially in an unfamiliar environment. Student health insurance provides a safety net in case of medical emergencies, ensuring that international students can access necessary medical care without worrying about high out-of-pocket expenses.
Compliance with Visa Requirements: Some United States visa types, such as J-1 and J-2 visas (Exchange Visitors), require individuals to have health insurance that meets specific criteria. Complying with this requirement is essential to maintain legal status during their stay in the USA.
Peace of Mind: Having student health insurance provides international students with peace of mind, knowing they have access to healthcare services and support in case of illness or injury.
Compliance with University Policies: Most US educational institutions have specific health insurance requirements for students. Complying with these policies ensures that students can fully participate in academic programs and related activities.
Access to Good Healthcare Providers: US student health insurance for international students offer access to preferred networks of healthcare providers, making it easier for students to find medical services near their campus.
Fulfilling Optimal Health: Being in a foreign country can be both exciting and stressful. Having international student health insurance can encourage students to prioritize their well-being and seek medical help when needed.

Health insurance for international students offered in American Visitor Insurance is a vital tool to protect their health, well-being, and academic pursuits while studying in the United States. It provides financial security and access to essential healthcare services, allowing students to focus on their studies and overall experience as they pursue their educational goals abroad.

US student abroad health insurance

Student insurance for US students studying abroad is designed to provide coverage for medical expenses, emergencies, and other health-related needs while they are studying in another country. US students abroad insurance ensures that they have access to healthcare services and financial protection in case of unexpected medical situations. Compare and buy best US students abroad insurance to meet specific requirements.

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US student F1 visa medical insurance FAQs

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Insurance for J2 visa dependants satisfying visa requirements.

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OPT Status within F1 visa

Insurance plans for students on OPT status, OPT student insurance.

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M1 visa holders

Medical insurance for students on vocational training.

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How can I buy the best international student insurance?

Finding the available best health insurance for international plans

Complete the student insurance quotes request form by providing details of the student and insurance requirements.

Compare the different medical insurance options

Compare the price and the benefits of the different travel insurance options to identify what fits your needs best.

Buy the student health insurance that you like best

Purchase the plan that fits your requirements and budget best by using a credit card and completing the online application.

Review the students medical insurance plan documents received by email

Review the travel insurance policy documents received by email closely for coverage details and relevant contact numbers.

Student health insurance for top US colleges and universities

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International Student Health Insurance Comparison

Health insurance for international students

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Cheapest international student insurance

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Resourceful international medical insurance information for students

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Student Insurance FAQ

Commonly asked questions about international student health insurance..

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Health insurance resources

Resources to help you understand Student Health and Travel Insurance..

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Factors for best student medical insurance

What factors affect the cost of health insurance for international students?

What are the types of international student health insurance?

University-sponsored health insurance plans

US private health insurance plans

Short term visitor insurance plans

What does international student insurance cover?

What should I look for in USA student insurance for international students?

How Much Does F1 Student Health Insurance Cost In The US In 2025?

What Affects the Cost?

International student health insurance USA

Which are the best health insurance providers for International students in USA?

International Medical Group (IMG)

WorldTrips

GeoBlue

Which is the popular health insurance for international students in USA?

Patriot Exchange Program IMG

Student Journey Platinum IMG

StudentSecure Select Insurance Worldtrips

Student Health Advantage Standard IMG

StudentSecure Elite Insurance Worldtrips

Student Health Advantage Platinum IMG

What is the best medical evacuation insurance for international students?

Atlas MedEvac Insurance

Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance

Student health insurance FAQ's

US student abroad health insurance

US student F1 visa medical insurance FAQs

Not on a F1 visa? Please review these other visa categories

J1 visa holders

F2 dependents

US Student Abroad

J2 dependents

OPT Status within F1 visa

M1 visa holders

How can I buy the best international student insurance?

Finding the available best health insurance for international plans

Compare the different medical insurance options

Buy the student health insurance that you like best

Review the students medical insurance plan documents received by email

Student health insurance for top US colleges and universities

International Student Health Insurance Comparison

Cheapest international student insurance

Resourceful international medical insurance information for students

Student Insurance FAQ

Health insurance resources

International student health insurance reviews

Anirudh

Amanda

Best insurance for international students

Cheapest medical insurance for F1 students

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Disclaimer

Patriot Exchange Program ^IMG

Student Journey Platinum ^IMG

StudentSecure Select Insurance ^Worldtrips

Student Health Advantage Standard ^IMG

StudentSecure Elite Insurance ^Worldtrips

Student Health Advantage Platinum ^IMG