Compare IMG Student Health Advantage vs Patriot Exchange Program insurance
International Medical Group Has designed Patriot Exchange Insurance and Student Health advantage insurance for international students. These are comprehensive medical insurance plans ideal for international students, exchange scholars taking part is full time study abroad courses
Both these plans are underwritten by Sirius International Insurance Corporation, a White Mountains Insurance Group Company and have AM Best Rating of "A" (Excellent). International Medical Group has been offering international health insurance since 27 years and is popularly known for its excellent claims settlement.
It is advisable to compare Patriot Exchange and Student Health Advantage insurance plans before buying the best plan satisfying your needs. They both satisfy university requirements and US J visa requirements, After the student or exchange scholar has purchased the student medical insurance, a waiver form showing the proof of comparable coverage and visa letters would be sent on request.
Patriot Exchange vs. Student Health Advantage – Which plan is best for International Students?
Patriot Exchange Student Insurance
- Designed for J-1/J-2 visa holders and F-1/M-1 students. Patriot Exchange offers affordable, flexible coverage with benefits like student health center visits, hospitalization, emergencies, and mental health.
- Pre-existing condition: Up to $500 after 12 months.
- Mental health: Covered
- Emergency Services: ER, ambulance, and emergency medical evacuation included.
- Prescription Drugs: Included (subject to plan limits).
- Optional adventure sports: Covered up to 64 years.
- 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.
- Why Choose It: A budget-friendly option that meets J-visa requirements and school waiver guidelines , ideal for students who don't need maternity or full pre-existing condition coverage.
Policy maximum?
$50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, 50,00,000Deductible options?
$0, $100, $250, $500Period of coverage?
1 month up to 12 months
Student Health Advantage Standard:
- Student Health Advantage Standard insurance is ideal for long-term students and scholars, this plan expands benefits over Patriot Exchange and offers more comprehensive coverage.
- Pre-existing condition: Covered after 12 months.
- Mental and Nervous Disorders: Covered, including outpatient care
- Organized Sports: Covered
- Prescription Drugs: Included (up to $250,000 max).
- Optional adventure sports: Covered up to 64 years.
- 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.
- Why Choose It: Stronger coverage than Patriot Exchange; ideal for long-term students needing better benefits and renewability up to 5 years.
Policy maximum?
$500,000Deductible options?
$250Period of coverage?
1 month up to 12 months
Student Health Advantage Platinum:
- Student Health Advantage Platinum is IMG’s most comprehensive international student plan, combining full maternity benefits with a reduced 6-month waiting period for pre-existing conditions ideal for students requiring higher coverage.
- Pre-existing condition: Covered after just 6 months.
- Maternity: Included, covers prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care.
- Mental Health & Substance Abuse: Covered (inpatient and outpatient).
- Optional adventure sports: Covered up to 64 years.
- Organized Sports: Covered
- Vision & Dental: Limited coverage for accident/dental and vision screening.
- Evacuation & Repatriation: Included.
- Why Choose It: Perfect for students whose school waiver requirements include maternity coverage or reduced waiting periods for pre-existing conditions and also ideal if you're planning to stay long-term with dependents.
Policy maximum?
$500,000Deductible options?
$250Period of coverage?
1 month up to 12 months
What are the key differences between Patriot Exchange vs Student Health Advantage insurance plans?
| Feature | Patriot Exchange insurance | Student Health Advantage Standard | Student Health Advantage Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost Estimate | $74 | $124 | $371 |
| Medical Maximum | $50,000 to $500,000 | $500,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Maternity | cancel | cancel | Covered |
| Organized sports help | cancel | Covered | Covered |
| Student health center help | $5 copay | $5 copay | $5 copay |
| Renewal Max help | Up to 48 months | Up to 5 years | Up to 5 years |
International student health insurance reviews
“ After rigorous searching for suitable student health insurances online, I stumbled upon the American visitor Insurance website and the customer representatives were really patient and helpful in guiding me with the best plan. ”
Anirudh
“ Your customer service provided me with perfect service and helped me very much to find policy I needed (for J2 visa). She was very polite and answered all my questions. I'm fully satisfied with the service. Thank you very much! ”
Amanda
What is the best US based Underwriter for F1 visa student insurance?
Looking to buy your Patriot Exchange program.
I am a UK citizen and will be doing my Masters in Ohio, USA and have my F1 visa.
My University's own healthcare plan has stipulated if I take out my own healthcare plan they need to be based in the USA and the underwriters need to be American too. If the Insurance plans are not underwritten within the United States they do not meet waiver requirements. Plans that are not underwritten in the United States are not required to meet mandated benefit and underwriting regulations as set forth by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Can you please let me know as soon as you can.
Thanks,
Lisa
The Patriot Exchange program is administered by the International Medical Group, which is based in Indianapolis.
The plan is underwritten and issued by SiriusPoint Specialty Insurance Corporation. SiriusPoint is a global underwriter of insurance and reinsurance providing solutions to clients and brokers around the world. Bermuda-headquartered with offices in New York, London, Stockholm and other locations, they are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (SPNT)
Patriot Exchange Insurance
Thanks,
Customer support,
Customer care
www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
(877) 340 7910
IMG's Patriot Exchange vs Student Health Advantage insurance
Patriot Exchange student health insurance plan has been designed keeping the US universities and their requirements for F1 and J1 Visa holders in mind. This plan satisfies typical university F1 and US immigration authorities J1 Visa requirements. Student Health Advantage is another student plan from IMG that is designed to the needs of international students coming to the US for higher education. It meets the J1 visa requirements and is also suitable for F1 Visa holders and their dependents. There are two types of Student Health Advantage plans namely Standard and Platinum.
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Student Health Advantage vs Patriot Exchange insurance - FAQ's
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What is Patriot Exchange program insurance?The Patriot Exchange Program was designed to meet the insurance requirements for individuals and groups of two or more students studying abroad or participating in a cultural exchange program, including J1 and J2 visa holders.
Is IMG travel insurance legit? Is IMG a real insurance company?International Medical Group (IMG) has been offering travel insurance products since 1990. Based in Indianapolis, IMG has more than 300 employees and offers 25+ travel insurance products for travelers to the US as well as for US citizens traveling overseas.
Their products are ideal people traveling to the United States as tourists on B1 visa, international students on F1 visa, Exchange scholars on J visa, professionals on the H1B visa as well as US travelers who are looking for trip cancellation insurance for travel insurance.
Why is Patriot Exchange Program Good for International Students and Scholars?- It specifically covers students, scholars, interns, teachers, and trainees on J1, J2, F, M, or A visas, along with their spouses and dependent children traveling with them.
- The plan fulfills the U.S. Department of State’s J1 visa insurance requirements and other visa standards, offering coverage limits, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and deductible options that comply with regulatory mandates.
- Policyholders can select coverage with maximum limits of $50,000, $100,000, $250,000, or $500,000 per illness or injury, allowing customization based on needs and budgets. Deductibles range from $0 to $500, and coverage includes inpatient and outpatient benefits.
- After the deductible, the plan typically pays 100% of eligible expenses for covered services in the U.S., reducing out-of-pocket costs for insured individuals.
- Coverage can be purchased for as short as 30 days and renewed for up to 48 continuous months, ideal for students with variable academic or exchange program lengths
What are the key highlights of IMG Patriot Exchange insurance?- Meets U.S. Visa Requirements: IMG Patriot Exchange Program insurance meets all U.S. student, scholar, and cultural exchange program visa requirements.,
- Renewable Group Coverage: Groups may purchase annually renewable long-term plans that have the flexibility to be tailored to meet the specific needs of each program.
- Visa Compliance: Specifically designed to meet J1, J2, F1, M1, and A visa insurance requirements, and suitable for international students, exchange scholars, trainees, and their families.
- Teladoc (Groups Only): IMG's national network of board-certified doctors and pediatricians offers phone or online video consultations in the U.S. through Teladoc.
- Prescription Drugs Coverage: Prescription drugs and medication benefit includes a per period of coverage maximum limit of $250,000 per insured person.
- Dependents: Eligible to insure spouse and dependent children even if on a different plan from the primary visa holder.
Can I extend or renew my Patriot Student Exchange insurance plan?Eligible insureds may renew their coverage for a minimum of 5 days and a maximum of 48 continuous months, as long as the premium is paid when due.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by Patriot Exchange program insurance?Pre-existing can be covered but after a waiting period. For conditions existing within 36 months before the effective date, charges are excluded until after 12 months of coverage and then covered at $500 per period of coverage with a $1,500 maximum limit.
How does Patriot Exchange meet J1 and J2 visa insurance requirements?Patriot Exchange meets the essential J1 and J2 visa insurance requirements established by the U.S. Department of State as follows:
- Medical Coverage Minimums: The plan offers coverage per illness or injury of at least $100,000, which is the minimum required for J visa holders. You can select higher maximums if desired; however, coverage options below $100,000 will not satisfy J visa rules.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: Covered up to $50,000, fulfilling the requirement for evacuation expenses to the exchange visitor's home country.
- Repatriation of Remains: Provides coverage up to $25,000, matching federal mandates for repatriation costs in the event of death.
- Eligibility for J2 Dependents: Coverage extends to J2 visa holders (dependents), and the plan can be purchased separately for dependents even if the primary J1 holder is insured elsewhere.
Who is eligible for Patriot Exchange insurance for Students?To be eligible to apply to the Patriot Exchange Plan, you must:
- You must be a participant in an educational or cultural exchange program abroad, such as a student, scholar, intern, teacher, or trainee, engaged in teaching, study, research, or on-the-job training for a temporary period.
- Be the spouse of a participant or children of a participant and residing outside his/her primary country of residence for a temporary period of time. The primary applicant must hold a J, M, F, or A visa.
- You must be at least 31 days old and younger than 65 years.
- You must be physically and legally residing in the destination country with the intent to stay at least 30 days from the effective date and on renewal.
Are Adventure sports covered in the IMG Patriot Exchange program?Yes an optional rider is available for adventure sports for individuals and groups, and their dependents, up to the age of 65.
Can f2 visa holder buy Patriot Exchange insurance?Patriot Exchange is one of the best health insurance for f1 student's dependents which an F2 visa holder. The F2 visa holder can buy even if the corresponding F1 visa holder is not enrolled in the same plan.
Are there any waiting periods or exclusions for pre-existing conditions?Yes, there are some waiting periods and exclusions for pre-existing conditions under Patriot Exchange student health Insurance. Some of them are:
- The plan does not cover any charges or expenses incurred during the first 12 months of coverage for a pre-existing condition that existed within 36 months before the effective date of coverage. This applies to all insured persons regardless of age or citizenship.
- The plan does not cover any charges or expenses incurred for maternity care if conception occurred before the effective date of coverage. This applies to all insured persons regardless of age or citizenship.
- The plan does not cover any charges or expenses incurred for treatment or surgery that is elective, experimental, investigational, or not medically necessary. This applies to all insured persons regardless of age or citizenship.
What is international student health insurance?International student health insurance is health insurance coverage for individuals who are studying abroad either short or long term while away from their home countries. Many of the US domestic health insurance plans may not cover a person fully while abroad. Also, some international programs may require certain levels of health insurance while participating in their programs. Luckily, we at American Visitor Insurance have made it easy to compare and find a cheapest health insurance for international students in USA just right for you and your situation.
Unique feature of IMG Patriot Exchange Program Insurance?The Patriot Exchange student insurance plan is available for spouse and dependent children even if the primary F1 or J1 visa holder is not on this insurance plan. If a J1 Visa holder wants to buy this plan for his J2 spouse or children, then Patriot Exchange insurance plan can be purchased for the J2 visa holders.
The same is true for F2 visa holders as they can buy Patriot Exchange student insurance even if the F1 visa holder is not on the Patriot exchange student insurance plan.
What is the cheapest IMG health insurance for international students on F1 visa in the USA?The cheapest IMG health insurance option for international students on an F1 visa in the USA is typically the Patriot Exchange plan. It offers coverage starting at about $56 per month, depending on age and coverage options, with a policy maximum starting at $50,000 (and up to $5 million aggregate) and deductible options of $0, $100, $250, or $500. This plan is designed to meet visa requirements including those for F1 students and offers flexible coverage with affordable premiums. -
How much does a Student Health Advantage Plan cost?
The cost of the IMG Student Health Advantage plan varies depending on the plan tier (Standard or Platinum), age of the student, and whether coverage includes the U.S. or not. Pricing is typically given as daily rates, which can be converted to monthly amounts approximately.
Why international students choose the Student Health Advantage plan?- Two levels available
- Next day coverage
- Renewable up to 5 years
- Great for F1/ J1 students and scholars and their dependents
- Flexible payment options in monthly or full
- Includes doctor’s visits, hospitalization, evacuation and repatriation
What are the Eligibility requirements for IMG's Student Health Advantage plan?- You must be a student, scholar, intern, teacher, or trainee enrolled in an educational or cultural exchange program.
- You must either be the spouse or dependent of a participant and residing outside your primary country of residence for a temporary period.
- The primary applicant must hold a J1, M1, F1, or A1 visa, and the spouse must apply with the primary applicant.
- You must be at least 31 days old and not yet 65 years old.
- Be physically and legally residing in the destination country with the intent to reside there for at least 30 days on the effective date and at renewal.
- Not be hospitalized, disabled, pregnant, or HIV+ on the initial effective date.
- You must physically and legally reside in the destination country with the intent to reside there for at least 30 days.
- You cannot be hospitalized, disabled, pregnant, or HIV+ on the initial effective date.
- Premiums for this plan are charged per 30 days of coverage and do not work on a prorated basis. Please note that coverage is valid only for the specific travel dates selected.
- Extendable for up to 365 days.
- Plan can be purchased after arrival at the destination.
Does Student Health Advantage program insurance cover Adventure Sports?Yes, the Adventure Sports Rider is available for those up to the age of 65. The following activities are covered to the lifetime maximum amounts listed below as long as they are engaged solely for leisure, recreation, or entertainment purposes: abseiling, BMX, bobsledding, bungee jumping, cannoning, caving, hot air ballooning, jungle zip lining, parachuting, paragliding, parascending, rappelling, skydiving; spelunking, white-water kayaking, wildlife safaris, and windsurfing.
All such activities must be carried out in strict accordance with the rules, regulations, and guidelines of the applicable Governing Body or Authority of each such activity.
What is the best health insurance for international students?The best student medical insurance will vary for each student. There is no single student insurance which will work as the best international student health insurance plan for all students. The factors to consider while identifying the best student insurance will be the coverage benefits, the provider network and the cost of the health insurance for international students.
Does Student Health Advantage covers Maternity?Yes Student Health Advantage does cover maternity care, but only on the Platinum plan the Standard version does not include maternity benefits.
Key points about maternity coverage under this plan are:
- Maternity coverage is available only if the pregnancy begins after the policy's effective date.
- The coverage includes prenatal care, childbirth, and postnatal care.
- There is a $5,000 maximum limit on maternity benefits.
- If pre-certification requirements for maternity care are not met, there is a 50% reduction of eligible medical expenses related to maternity.
- This coverage applies to full-time or part-time international students with a valid student visa.
- Waiting periods may apply, and coverage for pregnancies existing before the policy start date is generally excluded.
Why you choose Student Health Advantage insurance?- Meets Visa Requirements :Student Health Advantage meets all U.S. student, scholar, and cultural exchange program visa requirements.
- Organized Sports Coverage :The Student Health Advantage plan provides medical coverage for intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural, and club sports.
- Prescription Drugs Coverage :The prescription drugs and medication benefit includes a per period of coverage maximum limit of $250,000 per insured student and $100,000 for dependents.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: The Student Health Advantage Standard plan will cover pre-existing conditions after 12 months of continuous coverage, while the Platinum plan will cover them after six months.
- Mental Health and Organized Sports Coverage: Unlike some other plans, it covers mental health treatment and allows coverage for intercollegiate/interscholastic sports injuries.
- Standard Plan: $500,000 maximum coverage, tends to have a $250 deductible, covers pre-existing conditions after 12 months, no maternity coverage.
- Platinum Plan: Higher $1,000,000 maximum with lower deductible, shorter pre-existing condition waiting period (6 months), and maternity/newborn care coverage up to $5,000.
Which plan should you choose?
- Looking for a budget-friendly option?
Choose Patriot Exchange – It's affordable and meets basic J-1/F-1 visa and school waiver requirements, making it ideal for short-term or cost-conscious students. - Planning a long-term study program?
Go with Student Health Advantage – It offers stronger benefits, full pre-existing coverage after 12 months, and can be renewed for up to 5 years. - Need maternity coverage or faster pre-existing condition benefits?
Pick Student Health Advantage Platinum – It’s the most comprehensive plan, including maternity and reduced wait times for pre-existing conditions. Perfect for students with dependents or strict school requirements.