How much is health insurance in the USA for international students?
The cost of international Student health insurance per month ranges from $30 to $124. This cost mainly depends on different factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance. Some Student insurance plans offer additional coverage for mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports, maternity and pre-existing ailments.
What are the best health insurance for international students?
International Medical Group(IMG) international Student insurance reviews
After 60 days of risk start date, there is no refund for cancellation of the policy.
The policy holder has to wait for 6 months for the pre-existing diseases to be covered.
No coverage for the dependents.
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 that suits me. ”
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! ”
Amanda
Why is international student insurance important in the USA?
Health insurance for international students is important to cover the costs of medical care in case of accident or sickness while studying abroad. As an international student, it is vital to ensure you have the best Student health insurance for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains and accidental death and dismemberment. At American Visitor Insurance we offer a wide range of deductibles and co-insurance for foreign Student insurance which meet school requirements, including for those on F1 visa, OPT status, F2 visa, sports coverage, M-1/M-2 or J visas as well as for US students studying abroad.
What are the health insurance requirements for international students in the USA?
International students studying in the United States are required to buy Student travel insurance USA coverage to satisfy University needs in many colleges. The specific requirements for best health insurance for international students varies depending on the educational institution, state regulations, and the type of visa the Student holds.
International Student health insurance requirements
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 and are cheaper health insurance plans for international students in USA and with similar benefits.
State Requirements: Some U.S. states mandate Student insurance coverage.
Visa Requirements: No international Student on F1 visa, F2 visa, J1 visa or J2 visa non-immigrant status shall be permitted to register or continue enrollment at a university without demonstrating that he or she has adequate medical insurance coverage for illness or accidental injury.
J-1 and J-2 Visa Requirements: Exchange Scholars (J-1/J-2 visa holders) must meet the health insurance requirements set by the U.S. Department of State.
Coverage and Benefits: The required Student health insurance plans need to provide a basic level of coverage for medical services, hospitalization, emergency care, and repatriation of remains, among other benefits.
M1 Visa Students: Students enrolled in vocational or technical colleges (M1 visa) must have medical insurance coverage.
Waivers: International students who buy F1 visa 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 health insurance for international students USA plans from top rated insurance provide.
Are you excited about pursuing your education in the US?
Congratulations on starting an overseas university education! Have you ensured that you have a good safety net for the new environment? What if you meet with an accident or fall ill, and your studies are interrupted by circumstances beyond your control? It is for these unforeseen situations that you need proper Student medical insurance.
Here are some details that needs your attention. Hundreds of thousands of International students come to the US annually to fulfil their dreams. Along with the University Course registration comes an important often ignored aspect, which is Student Health Insurance. Health Care is very expensive in the US and unless you have adequate Student medical insurance, you can get into serious financial difficulty.
In fact most Universities make it mandatory for International students to buy Student health insurance plan. Quite often there is a college Student plan which most students enroll, however these plans are quite expensive. The University provides a list of requirements for the Student insurance plan, and students can also purchase Student insurance plans outside of the College insurance option, as long as it satisfies the University requirement.
Best Health insurance for International students reviews
At American Visitor Insurance, we offer the best health insurance plans for international students in USA. We offer F1 visa Student insurance that are specifically designed to satisfy university requirements. Students can compare foreign Student medical insurance plans offered by reputed American Insurance providers.
These plans are very popular among international students since they are cheaper than University Student insurance while satisfying University and F1 visa Obamacare requirements.
Student Medical Insurance
What does international student insurance cover?
Doctor Visit
Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.
How to choose the best student health insurance in the U.S.?
When choosing the best student health insurance in the USA, international students should consider several key factors to make sure they have adequate protection and are compliant with school or visa requirements. Compare the best student health insurance plans for USA at American Visitor Insurance, offering plans that meet waiver criteria and provide comprehensive coverage.
University requirements: Some universities require students to enroll in their insurance plan or have other private insurance plans that complies with the university's requirements.
Visa requirements: Ensure that your chosen plan satisfies the minimum coverage requirements related to your visa status (for instance, J1 visa holders must have coverage with $100,000 medical benefits and $50,000 medical evacuation).
Coverage: Look for plans that provide coverage for essential medical services such as doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs, emergency services, and mental health.
Cost: Compare not only the premiums but also the deductibles, co-payments, and out of pocket maximums to determine which plans are in your budget.
Network: Choose plans which have a wider network of doctors and hospitals, especially in the area you will be located.
Pre-existing conditions: Check if your selected plan covers any pre-existing conditions and if there’s a waiting period.
Customer service and claims process: Reliable customer service and a simple claims process, is important particularly when you are navigating through a foreign healthcare system.
What is the cheapest health insurance for international students in the USA?
The cheapest health insurance for international students is offered by Student Journey Lite insurance plan, starting at just $30 per month. Other affordable student health insurance option includes Student Secure Smart insurance and Student Journey Plus insurance. This cost mainly depends on different factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance.
Which are the best health insurance for international students in the USA?
The best health insurance for international students in the USA are Student Journey Platinum by IMG, Patriot Exchange Program from IMG, StudentSecure Select from WorldTrips. Choosing the best health insurance for international students in the USA depends on factors such as personal health needs, budget, university insurance requirements, and visa status.
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:
Offers a wide range of plans like Student Journey, designed for international students seeking affordable coverage for medical expenses and hospitalization.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What factors determine international student health insurance cost?
Student's age: The student's age determines the cost of US student medical insurance. Students under age 20 can expect health insurance costs ranging from $30 to $124 per month. The prices for best health insurance for f1 students in USA increases with the age of the student.
Length of health insurance for F1 students: The cheapest student health insurance in the US can be either monthly or on a daily basis. Annual plans tend to be more expensive than short-term policies, but they offer more comprehensive benefits. The price increases with the duration of coverage required.
Maximum F1 student insurance coverage: Comprehensive plans that offers higher policy maximums and extensive coverage including benefits like mental health, dental, maternity, and pre-existing conditions generally comes with higher premiums. The cost of F1 student health insurance is less for lower medical maximum and increases with higher medical maximum coverage.
Deductibles and Co-insurance: Plans with lower deductibles (the amount the student pays out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins) 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 allow for less flexibility. The private health insurance for international students available on American Visitor Insurance offer university requirements comparable coverage and are often more affordable than the university-sponsored plans making them flexible and cost-effective.
Coverage region: There is significant variance in the cost of student health insurance 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: if the students need additional coverage for specific activities like adventure sports mental illness, preventive care services, home country would cost more.
Select the F1 student health insurance that fits your budget, meets your healthcare needs, and complies with university requirements.
7
Complete enrollment
After purchasing your plan, keep all documents you receive by email, as they may be needed for enrollment verification at your university.
What are the advantages of buying health insurance within a PPO for international students?
A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) for student health insurance can be extremely beneficial for international students seeking coverage in the USA under emergency.
PPOs offer a large network of doctors, specialists, hospitals, and clinics across the USA. This gives international students a much wider choice of healthcare providers compared to other plan types (like HMOs, which often restrict you to a specific network or require referrals).
When students are in a new country, navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming. A vast PPO network means it's usually easier to find an in-network provider near your university or temporary residence, making it convenient to seek care when needed.
PPOs negotiate discounted rates with their in-network providers. When international students consult an in-network doctor or visit an in-network hospital, they benefit from these lower, pre-negotiated prices.
Student health insurance in USA are typically structured so that the out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, copayments, coinsurance) are significantly lower when you use in-network providers. For example, a common PPO structure might pay 100% of costs after deductible when in-network, but only 60% when out-of-network.
Many in-network providers will bill the insurance company directly, reducing the amount students have to pay upfront and then seek reimbursement for. This simplifies the financial process considerably.
With a PPO, students typically do not need a referral from a primary care physician (PCP) to see a specialist (like a dermatologist, orthopedist, or cardiologist). This means they can directly schedule an appointment with the specialist they need, saving time and simplifying the process, especially when dealing with specific health issues.
International Student Health Insurance PPO plans provide online directories or apps where students can search for in-network doctors, hospitals, and clinics by specialty, location, and even language spoken.
When students receive health care services, they have to present their insurance ID card. The provider will verify the coverage and bill the insurance company directly for the in-network portion.
Lastly the students will be responsible for the deductible amount which they need to pay before the insurance starts covering costs and any copayments or coinsurance which is the student’s share of the costs after the deductible as per the chosen plan's benefits.
A buying student health insurance with good PPO network provides international students with a balance of broad access to quality healthcare providers and significant cost savings when using in-network services. This makes navigating the complex US healthcare system much more manageable and affordable.
How can I compare and buy international Student insurance online?
We have developed a friendly insurance compare quote facility. Here you have to enter basic information to get competing quotes.
Our system searches all available options from leading insurers to display a list of eligible plans.
You can now easily compare different plans based on their price and coverage details.
You can select the plan that you like best and buy it online with ease.
Those who are not taking any courses in the University but are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the US can buy OPT insurance plans.
1. Do f1 students need health insurance? Is travel insurance mandatory for USA Student visa?
F1 students in the USA are not required to have health insurance. However, most universities mandate that international students have health insurance coverage, either by enrolling in the school's health plan or providing proof of equivalent coverage. This ensures that students have access to necessary medical care and are protected from high medical costs.
Health insurance is not mandatory for obtaining a USA Student visa. However, it is highly recommended for international students to have travel health insurance for USA to cover unforeseen events. Once in the US, students should focus on securing comprehensive health insurance for their stay.
2. Can international students get medicare?
No. International students are not eligible for Medicare. Medicare is a US government program only available to US citizens or US permanent residents who have paid into the US system.
3. Is there health insurance for college students? Do students get health insurance USA?
US citizens are eligible to purchase health insurance plans through their state's health insurance marketplace. Non-US citizens can purchase visitor insurance plans. Those foreign students on the F or J visas qualify specifically for "student" health insurance plans which are often cheaper than visitor insurance. Students can compare Student medical insurance plans and make an informed choice.
4. Does college offer health insurance?
Most colleges offer group health insurance for their students. This may be required if the Student does not have any other insurance. Check with your institution as to what is available. However the Student insurance plans that are offered in American Visitor Insurance are usually cheaper than University insurance while offering similar coverage. Students can compare the coverage of the University insurance along with the plans on this website and make an informed decision.
5. Why should international students compare health insurance?
Most international Student health insurance plans seem similar on first impressions. However, while they have many benefits in common and the premium is also similar, different Student insurance plans do have some additional benefits or perhaps some specific constraints. In order to choose the best plan based on the students requirements and to get sufficient coverage from the international Student insurance plan, it is important to compare different features available in the Student health insurance plan.
The following are important factors for comparing Student health insurance plans:
Policy Maximum: This is the maximum amount on the insurance plan which normally ranges from $50K up to $1M. This is the maximum a policy can cover in case of an extreme emergency as per the policy guidelines and conditions mentioned in the policy.
Deductible: The deductible options can range anywhere from $50 up to $5K between the plans. A larger deductible means lower premium price and vice versa. Picking a large deductible thus low premium by choosing a comprehensive plan is usually recommended, as most of the comprehensive plans have an one time deductible and is cost effective.
Pre existing condition coverage: This is very important benefit factor as many customers need this benefit. The Student plans have a minimum 6 month waiting period for coverage of pre-existing conditions.
Coverage for mental illness and drug abuse: This coverage is required by most of the universities.
Cancellation and Renewability: Each plan have their unique cancellation and renew-ability policies. It is important to pay attention to it if there is any ambiguity while booking insurance initially.
Sports and other unique activities: Some of the plans provide coverage for intercollegiate and interscholastic sports...
Based on these factors, American Visitor Insurance provides an excellent compare Student medical insurance facility where getting quotes as per students’ requirements. Once the required information is entered in the form, a summary of popular Student insurance plans are displayed which can be compared.
6. Which is the best international Student insurance for sports? Will it cover competition games with other colleges?
There are quite a few Student insurance plans that cover sports activities. It is hard to pick one plan as the best plan. There might be slight differences in the kind of sports activities that they cover. However, here is a list of plans which provide great coverage for sports activities:
Student Health Advantage plan from IMG: This plan provides coverage of $5K for intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural, and club sports. This is most requested by international students.
Student Secure Elite plan from Worldtrips: Sports and activities coverage: This plan covers leisure, recreational, entertainment, or fitness up to the overall maximum limit
The best policy we offer is the Diplomat America or Diplomat LongTerm insurance for intercollegiate sports coverage. The policy allows you to put a specific sports rider on the policy (low, medium, or high) depending on the sport to be covered. Under this enhancement, the maximum benefit pay out is reduced to $20K for any covered injury or illness resulting from the sports activity. The cost depends on the sport to be covered.
The Low Option -(additional $12.00 flat monthly rate) is for Ballet; Baseball; Cheerleading; Cross Country; Diving; Equestrian; Fencing; Field Hockey; Golf; Polo (Horse); Polo (Water); Rowing; Softball; Surfing; Swimming; Tennis; Track & Field; and Volleyball.
The Middle Option (additional $26.00 flat monthly rate) will cover Basketball; Competitive Cycling (Road, Track, CX); Ice Hockey; Inline Skating (Helmet & Proper Equipment Required); Lacrosse; Martial Arts/Karate; Modern Pentathlon; Skiing (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Downhill); Ski Jumping; and Wrestling. And the High Option (additional $80.00 flat monthly rate) will cover Football (No Division One); Gymnastics; Rugby (No Division One); and Soccer. The LongTerm plan can be extended, but the Diplomat America plan cannot be extended or renewed.
7. Will Student insurance in USA cover intercollegiate athletics for international students in USA?
International students can purchase the Diplomat America or Diplomat LongTerm insurance for their studies in the USA. The plan offers an intercollegiate sports rider that can cover: Ballet; Baseball; Cheerleading; Cross Country; Diving; Equestrian; Fencing; Field Hockey; Golf; Polo (Horse); Polo (Water); Rowing; Softball; Surfing; Swimming; Tennis; Track & Field; Volleyball; Basketball; Competitive Cycling (Road, Track, CX); Ice Hockey; Inline Skating (Helmet & Proper Equipment Required); Lacrosse; Martial Arts/Karate; Modern Pentathlon; Skiing (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Downhill); Ski Jumping; Wrestling; Football (No Division One); Gymnastics; Rugby (No Division One); and Soccer.
8. Can you get a sports insurance as an international student?
Yes. There are various Student insurance plans that cover sports activities, however the sports activities that are covered by the plan vary from one to another.
While a plan covers intercollegiate sports activities, another might cover adventure sports and hazardous sports or the non contact amateur sports.
Here is a list of Student insurance plans that cover sports activities:
Patriot Exchange from IMG: This plan covers limited high school and college sports as an optional rider for 100% after the deductible is met . Similarly, it has an optional rider for adventure sports coverage.
Student Health Advantage plan from IMG: This plan provides coverage of $5K for intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural, and club sports. This is most requested by international students.
Student Secure Elite plan from Worldtrips: Sports and activities coverage: This plan covers leisure, recreational, entertainment, or fitness up to the overall maximum limit.
International students can purchase either the Diplomat America or Diplomat LongTerm insurance if they intend to play on intercollegiate sports or club teams. The coverage is reduced to $20K for sports injuries and can cover a variety of sports activities. The cost of the rider depends on the specific sport of interest.
9. How to get travel insurance for student visa?
Getting travel insurance for a Student visa typically involves a few steps. Here's a general guide to help students through the process:
Check Visa Requirements:
Before you start searching for travel insurance, ensure that your Student visa requirements include the necessity of having travel insurance. In US educational institutions require students to have insurance coverage.
Understand Coverage Needs:
Different insurance plans offer various types of coverage. Understand your specific needs, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other potential issues. Make sure the insurance meets the minimum requirements set by your educational institution and visa regulations.
Research Insurance Providers:
Look for reputable insurance providers that offer coverage suitable for Student visas. Check online reviews and testimonials to ensure the reliability of the chosen provider.
Compare Plans:
Compare Student travel insurance plans offered by different insurance providers. Look at coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and premiums. Make sure the plan you choose aligns with your budget and provides adequate coverage.
Check Visa-Compliance:
Confirm that the chosen Student insurance plan complies with the specific requirements of your Student visa. Some institutions may have specific criteria regarding coverage limits, medical benefits, and other aspects.
Purchase Insurance:
Once you have identified a suitable insurance plan, you can usually purchase it online through the provider's website. Ensure that you receive all the necessary documentation, including a policy certificate or confirmation, which you may need during the visa application process.
Keep Important Information Handy:
Carry a copy of your travel insurance policy and contact information for the insurance provider with you while traveling. This can be helpful in case of emergencies or if authorities need to verify your coverage.
Renewal and Extension:
Be aware of the expiration date of your insurance policy. If your study period extends beyond the initial coverage period, you may need to renew or extend your insurance accordingly
Always read the terms and conditions of the insurance policy carefully to understand the coverage, exclusions, and claim procedures. If you have specific questions or concerns, it's advisable to contact American Visitor Insurance for clarification.
10. Is insurance higher for international students?
Insurance premiums for international students can vary based on several factors. The length of the student's stay can influence insurance costs. Longer durations may result in higher premiums. The age and health condition of the Student can also impact insurance premiums. Older individuals or those with pre-existing medical conditions may face higher costs. The extent of coverage, including maximum limits and deductibles, can affect the premium amount. Plans with higher coverage limits and lower deductibles may have higher premiums.
11. How can I purchase student insurance using a paper application form?
On American Visitor Insurance students can buy US Student insurance using a paper application form either on monthly basics or yearly. Below are the Student insurance plans with paper application forms:
What preventive care services are covered by Student health insurance plans?
Hello,
I'm an international graduate Student who will be studying full time at Boston College. Would you be able to suggest any other medical insurance plan than the one offered at the university (UHC) so that I can waive the enrolled medical insurance plan at Boston COLLEGE?
Regards, Alekh
Dear Alekh,
Here is a Student health insurance plan that provides preventive care services along with the other benefits that are usually available with all Student health insurance plans:
What Student insurance plans include sports coverage?
Hello,
Your name came up on a web article as I was researching insurance policies available to Student athletes attending American universities.
Our daughter (age 17; will turn 18 in Aug.) will be attending university in Wisconsin. We are Canadian residents in Nova Scotia, but she is a dual U.S./Candian citizen. She is planning to play on the university's women's basketball team, and the season lasts approximately 5 months, from Nov to March.
According to NCAA athletic association rules, she must provide evidence of insurance that includes coverage for athletic-related injuries,
with a coverage limit of at least $90K. She has medical insurance that covers her in the U.S., but not for intercollegiate athletics.
I wondered if you might be able to provide a quote for a policy that would cover her as a university athlete in the U.S. Regards, Marge Garren
Dear Marge,
Thanks for your inquiry! If you are interested in the Student plans which include coverage for intercollegiate sports, then you can refer to the below link for that information. You can get an idea of cost and options by putting your information here: Student insurance. Some Student insurance plans exclude coverage for Intercollegiate sports governed by NCAA for most F1 visa students.
The only plan that covers NCAA college sports is the Diplomat America Insurance with the rider.
Please let us know if we can help you in any further.
or United HealthCare 
