At American Visitor Insurance, we specialize in offering high quality insurance plans to international students on OPT (Optional Practical Training) in the US. Working with trusted American insurance companies, we provide flexible coverage options to meet a variety of needs, including coverage for pre-existing conditions, mental health coverage, sports coverage and more.
OPT students can now easily find the best insurance plans tailored to their unique requirements while staying in the US. Our user-friendly platform allows students to filter and compare top-rated insurance options, review plan details, get instant quotes, and conveniently purchase the best OPT student health insurance online.
OPT insurance is health insurance coverage for international students in the U.S. on Optional Practical Training (OPT) under the F1 student visa. OPT is temporary authorization of employment for F1 visa holders to work in their area of study after the academic program.
STEM students (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) are usually qualified for a maximum of 36 months (3 years) of OPT, with a 24-month extension following the first 12 months. Non-STEM students are usually qualified for 12 months of OPT upon completion of coursework.
As university-funded health insurance tends to expire after graduation, OPT insurance assists in maintaining medical coverage during this period of transition. It safeguards against unforeseen medical expenses as students gain real-world experience in the U.S.
American Visitor Insurance offers a range of OPT insurance plans tailored to meet the unique needs of international students, providing reliable and affordable coverage options to ensure peace of mind while gaining valuable experience in the United States.
OPT coverage is important to international students in the United States because, following graduation, they are usually no longer covered under their university-provided health plans. Many employers also do not provide OPT participants with immediate health benefits. With the high price tag of medical care in America, even uncomplicated services like routine visits to the doctor or minor emergencies can turn into a heavy financial burden. OPT insurance delivers vital protection by covering medical requirements such as visits to doctors, hospitalization, emergency treatment, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, medical evacuation, and return of remains. By obtaining proper health coverage, international students can prevent financial burden and fulfill suggested health and visa requirements while concentrating on attaining practical work experience throughout their OPT time.
The OPT student health insurance cost per month ranges from around $47 to $374. The price depends on different factors like the age of the student, the duration, the medical coverage, the deductible and the co-insurance for the plan. Additionally the student health insurance cost in the US also depends on coverage for mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports, maternity and coverage for pre-existing ailments. Here at American Visitor insurance we have calculated the cost of health insurance for international students to help you compare and make an informed choice while buying the plan.
The average cost of OPT student health insurance for a 25 years opt student for one month.
| Plan name | Medical Maximum | Deductible | Direct billing | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patriot America Plus | $50,000 | $250 | United healthcare or First healthcare | $47 |
| Atlas America | $50,000 | $250 | United health Care | $50 |
| Student Secure Smart | $200,000 | $0 | United health Care | $67 |
| Diplomat America | $50,000 | $250 | No PPO | $63 |
| Patriot Exchange | $250,000 | $250 | United health Care | $91 |
| StudentSecure Budget | $500,000 | $0 | United health Care | $100 |
| StudentSecure Elite | $5,000,000 | $0 | United health Care | $374 |
When comparing OPT insurance plans, consider:
While not required by U.S. immigration authorities, most universities and many employers require OPT students to have health insurance. Even if not mandated, it is highly recommended due to the high cost of healthcare in the U.S.
It is best to get OPT insurance when your university plan runs out. There are plans that allows enrollment upon application for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which allows you to continue coverage.
Yes, certain OPT insurance plans that are available from American Visitor Insurance offer limited pre-existing condition coverage based on the policy that is chosen. The Student Secure Select and Student Secure Elite plans, for instance, provide pre-existing condition coverage after a 6-month waiting period. The Patriot Exchange plan, on the other hand, offers pre-existing condition coverage after a waiting period of 12 months.
Yes, many OPT insurance plans offered through American Visitor Insurance provide options for renewal or extension. For example like the Student Secure Insurance and Patriot Exchange Program policies can be renewed for a duration of 4 years, which is perfect for students with long OPT or STEM extensions. Patriot America Plus can also be renewed up to 2 years.
To enroll in an OPT insurance plan, start by choosing a plan that fits your coverage needs and budget. Then, complete the online application form provided on the insurance provider’s website. After submitting your application, make the required payment through the available payment methods. Once your enrollment is confirmed, you will receive your policy documents and insurance ID cards via email, giving you proof of coverage to use during your OPT period.