Affordable F1 student health insurance plans that meet California university requirements – starting from $30/month
International students in California are required to maintain active health insurance for the entire duration of their studies to comply with university policies and U.S. visa regulations.Universities such as the University of California (UC) campuses (UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, UC Davis), California State University (CSU) campuses, Stanford University, University of Southern California (USC), Santa Clara University, and San Diego State University offer university-sponsored health insurance plans specifically designed for international students.
These plans typically provide coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency care, prescription medications, preventive services, mental health care, telemedicine, and mandatory benefits such as medical evacuation and repatriation of remains, which are required for F-1 and J-1 visa holders.California’s healthcare costs are among the highest in the U.S., making adequate insurance especially important for international students.
Students are usually automatically enrolled in the university health insurance plan each academic term, with premiums billed directly to the student’s university account along with tuition or mandatory student fees. The cost of coverage varies by institution and plan but generally ranges from $900 to $1,500 per semester, depending on the university and level of coverage. Graduate students, teaching assistants, and research assistants may be eligible for partial or full insurance subsidies, significantly reducing their out-of-pocket costs.
Many California universities allow students to request a health insurance waiver if they already have an alternative insurance plan that meets the institution’s minimum coverage requirements. These requirements typically include adequate medical benefit limits, in-network access within California, coverage for emergency services, and mandatory benefits such as medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
International student health insurance is a specialized insurance plan designed for students studying abroad either short or long term while away from their home countries. This type of insurance is essential for international students, as it provides financial protection against high healthcare costs in USA. It covers a wide range of medical expenses including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, prescription medications and medical evacuation.
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. We at American Visitor Insurance offer cheapest health insurance for international students while studying in the USA.
Health insurance costs for international students in California vary based on age, coverage limits, deductible level, and insurance provider. The cost of health insurance for college students in California can range approximately:
These private plans offer affordable student insurance in California and can provide excellent value compared to university-sponsored policies while still providing strong protection for emergencies, hospitalization, and routine care.
The monthly cost of health insurance for international students USA varies based on the coverage level selected for students aged 20.
| Plan | Cost (Monthly) | Max Coverage | Deductible | Pre-existing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Student Journey Lite IMG | $30 | $150,000 | $100 | After 6 months | Budget-friendly basic coverage |
| StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips | $32 | $200,000 | $0 | Acute onset covered | Zero deductible + acute onset coverage |
| Student Journey Plus IMG | $48 | $300,000 | $500 | After 6 months | Higher coverage with affordable premium |
| StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips | $53 | $500,000 | $0 | After 12 months | Budget-friendly plan with higher coverage limits |
| Patriot Exchange Program IMG | $56 | $50,000 | $250 | After 12 months | Short-term students & adventure sports |
| Diplomat America Global Underwriters | $71 | $50,000 | $250 | After 12 months | Acute onset covered |
| Student Journey Platinum IMG | $74 | $500,000 | $250 | After 6 months | Comprehensive coverage with higher limits |
| StudentSecure Select WorldTrips | $106 | $1,000,000 | $0 | After 6 months | Maximum coverage & premium benefits |
| Student Health Advantage Standard IMG | $124 | $500,000 | $250 | After 12 months | Comprehensive student health coverage |
Source: American Visitor Insurance®
The cheapest health insurance for F1 students in California is the Student Journey Lite insurance plan, with premiums starting at just $30 per month.
Other affordable California student health insurance option includes Student Secure Smart insurance and Student Journey Plus insurance.
To compare more budget-friendly plans and understand how to choose the cheapest health insurance for international students in USA, check our complete guide dedicated to helping students find the best and most affordable coverage.
Cheapest
Age: 20 years · $360 / year
Recommended
Age: 20 years · $372 / year
Best Coverage
Age: 20 years · $576 / year
The Best health insurance for college students in California is Patriot Exchange Program plan by IMG, with prices starting at $56 per month.
Other top student health insurance program in California include the Student Journey Platinum by IMG and the StudentSecure Select plan from WorldTrips.
To compare more budget-friendly plans and understand how to choose the Best student health insurance, check our complete guide to the Best health insurance for international students in the USA
Most Popular
Age: 20 years · $938 / year
High Coverage
Age: 20 years · $888 / year
Premium
Age: 20 years · $1248 / year
International students studying in California are generally required to have health insurance as a condition of enrollment. Here are the main requirements:
In California, many universities, including those within the California State University (CSU) system, offer health insurance plans specifically for their students, including international students. These plans are designed to address the unique healthcare needs of students during their time at the university.
For international students, these plans offer comprehensive coverage that typically includes medical services like doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, mental health support, and sometimes dental and vision care. Enrollment in these plans is often mandatory for international students, with the cost included in their tuition fees to ensure coverage from the start of their academic program.
University sponsored health insurance plans in California provide comprehensive coverage but often quite expensive. The cost, often included in tuition and mandatory fees, can put a financial strain on students, especially those with limited budget. In cases where students prefer a different plan, some universities in California offer an opt-out option, allowing students to waive the university-sponsored plan by providing proof of equivalent private health insurance.
In the US there are reputed private insurance providers who offers greater flexibility and benefits, allowing you to choose between ‘basic coverage’ or ‘full’ coverage. This enables you to reduce your insurance costs while still ensuring adequate protection for common medical situations, such as emergencies, or unexpected illnesses. This is an alternative to university-sponsored insurance, providing international students in California with more flexibility and customization in their coverage.
What to except from alternate student health insurance available on American Visitor Insurance?Foreign students on F1 visas studying in California can compare and buy students insurance on American Visitor Insurance. For more details, please contact us at (877)-340-7910 or email, and one of our licensed agents will help you find the best international student insurance.
Yes, many universities in California offer student health insurance plans, and international students are often required to enroll unless they qualify for a waiver. However, these university-sponsored plans are usually:
Because of these limitations, many international students in California opt for private student health insurance plans that satisfy university waiver requirements while providing greater provider flexibility and more affordable monthly premiums.
When choosing the best travel insurance for students studying abroad, understanding the factors that drive the cost is important.
For a detailed breakdown of these factors and tips on choosing the right plan, visit our guide on the factors for buying best student health insurance plan.
Healthcare costs in California are among the highest in the United States, especially for international students who are not eligible for government-sponsored healthcare programs. Even a single medical emergency can lead to thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses if you do not have health insurance.
Average Medical Costs in California (Without Insurance)| Medical Service | Average Cost in California |
|---|---|
| Emergency room visit | $2,500 – $6,500 |
| Ambulance services | $700 – $3,000 |
| Hospital stay | $4,000+ per day |
| MRI / CT scan | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary depending on the hospital, city (Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, etc.), and type of treatment.
Without student health insurance, international students in California are responsible for paying these medical expenses in full, which can cause significant financial stress during their academic journey.
Many international students in California unknowingly choose the wrong health insurance policy, which can lead to claim denials or high out-of-pocket medical expenses. Below are the most common mistakes to avoid when selecting student health insurance in California:
👉 Tip:Always choose a student health insurance plan that meets your university’s requirements and fits your academic, lifestyle, and healthcare needs.
Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.
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Some plans cover high school sports activities.
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Repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.
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Expenses from sudden dental pain and accidental dental injuries.
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Some plans offer coverage for pregnancy, maternity and new born.
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Student Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.
Know more »If you’re an international student planning to study in the USA on an F1 visa, having the right health insurance is essential. Most of the universities typically require health insurance for F1 students that include medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and often mental health or maternity care. To make sure you meet both university and visa requirements, explore our comprehensive guide on best F1 visa health insurance requirements in USA.
International students in the US come from different countries, with diverse economic backgrounds and face different financial needs. At American Visitor Insurance we offer health insurance for international students with flexible payment structures designed to make it more affordable and convenient, whether they are in the US for a semester or for an entire program spanning many semesters.
International Student Insurance Payment Options in the U.S.When buying international student health insurance in USA, students can usually choose between monthly or yearly payment plans. Selecting the right payment option depends on your budget, stay duration, and convenience.
| Payment Period | Highlights | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Student Insurance Plan | Monthly payments with recurring installments for student medical insurance coverage | Flexible with small installments | Overall higher total cost, and time consuming, Student must remember to pay on time to keep student medical insurance active. |
| Yearly International Student Insurance Plan | Pay the full premium up front (for entire policy period usually one year) | Cheaper than monthly payments, no risk of losing coverage by oversight | Larger upfront cost |
There are two simple ways to apply for student health insurance for F1 students and international students in the USA.
| Method | Description | Speed | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Application | Complete your international student insurance application online and make secure payment through American Visitor Insurance | Fast — Policy issued instantly | Most common and use Credit card |
| Paper Application | Submit printed forms and documents manually for student medical insurance plans | Slower — Takes time (few days) to process | Can pay by Check |
For international students who are unable to complete an online purchase, some international student medical insurance plans offer a paper application option. This offline method is ideal for applicants who do not have access to international credit cards, online banking, or U.S.-based payment methods.
American Visitor Insurance assists international students with both paper applications and online insurance purchases. Students can apply without online payment by submitting required documents manually through a paper application, or they may complete enrollment online with step-by-step guidance from experienced representatives. Applications can also be coordinated through schools, sponsors, or program coordinators when needed.
With flexible payment options and multiple enrollment methods, American Visitor Insurance supports F1 students, OPT students, and international students buying health insurance from outside the United States, making it simple to secure reliable student medical insurance coverage before arriving on campus.
The best insurance for international student athletes in the USA depends on the type of sport, level of participation, and university requirements. There are several U.S. student health insurance plans that cover sports activities, but coverage details, limits, and eligibility can vary by plan.
Because sports coverage differs by sport intensity and risk level, there is no single “best” plan for every student athlete. Instead, students should choose a plan that offers the appropriate sports rider and meets school, visa, and athletic program requirements.
At American Visitor Insurance, we offer a range of sports health insurance plans for international students designed for recreational, intercollegiate, and competitive sports participation.
| Coverage level | Monthly Add-On Cost | Sports covered |
|---|---|---|
| Low Option | $12 | Ballet, Baseball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Diving, Equestrian, Fencing, Field Hockey, Golf, Horse Polo, Water Polo, Rowing, Softball, Surfing, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball |
| Middle Option | $26 | Basketball, Competitive Cycling (Road, Track, CX), Ice Hockey, Inline Skating (with helmet/proper gear), Lacrosse, Martial Arts/Karate, Modern Pentathlon, Skiing (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Downhill), Ski Jumping and Wrestling |
| High Option | $80 | Football (No Division I), Gymnastics, Rugby (No Division I) and Soccer |
Best health insurance for international student Athletes.
Choosing American Visitor Insurance for your F1 student health insurance or international travel insurance needs comes with several key benefits:
Choosing the right student health insurance is important to ensure you’re protected from high U.S. healthcare costs while meeting university requirements. Here’s how to choose the best student health insurance plan:
As an international student studying in California, you're likely enrolled automatically in your university’s health insurance plan. While these plans offer solid coverage, they can be expensive. Fortunately, many California universities allow students to waive the school-sponsored insurance if they purchase a private plan that meets certain criteria.
Each university has its own waiver rules. Start by checking your school’s health services website for the required coverage limits, deductible maximums, and specific benefits like mental health, maternity, and emergency evacuation. Schools like UCLA (University of California, University of Southern California (USC), and Stanford University campuses often ask for:
Once you understand the requirements, visit American Visitor Insurance to compare student insurance plans. Choose a PPO-based plan from top providers like:
These plans are more affordable than university-sponsored options and still meet waiver guidelines. After purchasing, you’ll receive instant confirmation and the documents needed for your waiver submission.
Complete your university’s waiver form and attach the insurance documents provided by your private insurer. Be sure to submit everything before the school’s deadline. Some insurers on American Visitor Insurance also assist directly with waiver documentation to make the process easier.
If your waiver is approved, your school will remove the health insurance fee from your tuition bill, and your private insurance will take over coverage. If not, you may need to modify your plan or remain enrolled in the school’s policy.
Waiving your school insurance in California is a great way to save money without sacrificing coverage if done right. With the right plan from a trusted provider, you can stay protected, meet your university's requirements, and avoid high healthcare costs.
Without doubt, all students should have health insurance while they are in the US. The US health care costs are the highest in the world and a minor injury or accident could set you back tens of thousands of dollars. Being healthy and taking care of yourself is, of course, highly recommended, but accidents happen to us all and when we least expect. It is advisable buy cheapest health insurance for students before anything emergency situation arises so that you do not find yourself in serious debt.
Yes, International students can definitely get student medical insurance, we offer many medical insurance for college students in California options on American Visitor Insurance. Quite often, the universities themselves offer student insurance, however this can be expensive. College student health insurance for California that we offer are considerably more affordable than the University insurance plans, while providing similar coverage benefits. However, students should confirm if the University allows students to but insurance outside the University, and if they can get the required insurance waiver for this student insurance.
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.
California is considered a great state for international students due to its prestigious universities, diverse cultural environment, and extensive support services. The state hosts renowned institutions like Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, providing high-quality education and numerous networking opportunities, especially in industries like technology and entertainment. Additionally, California's rich cultural diversity allows students to engage with various communities and traditions, enhancing their overall experience. While the cost of living and tuition can be high, the comprehensive support systems in place help international students adapt and thrive academically and socially.
Yes, international students can work in California, primarily under an F-1 visa. They are allowed to work on-campus without prior authorization, limited to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks. For off-campus employment, they must obtain authorization through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which requires approval from their school's International Student Office and USCIS. It's important for students to follow all regulations to maintain their visa status.
Yes. In California, international students on F 1 or J 1 visas are generally required to purchase and maintain adequate health insurance throughout their studies. This requirement is enforced by both state university systems and many private universities.
Yes, most universities in California allow international students to waive the university-sponsored health insurance plan, but only if you can show proof of comparable private insurance coverage that meets their specific requirements.
Many universities in California allow international students to waive university-sponsored health insurance if they have a private plan that meets the school's coverage requirements.
International student health insurance in the USA costs between $30 and $124 per month. The price varies based on factors such as the student’s age, coverage length, medical benefits, deductible, co-insurance, and whether the plan includes coverage for mental health, dental care, hazardous sports, maternity, and pre-existing conditions.
Common waiver-compliant plans include:
These plans meet university standards for coverage limits, mental health benefits, emergency services, and provider ratings.
If you don’t have health insurance, your university may automatically enroll you in their Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) and charge the premium to your tuition. Without coverage, you could also face high out-of-pocket medical costs and may not meet visa or enrollment requirements if you're an international student.
>Yes, OPT (Optional Practical Training) students in Florida can usually continue using their international student health insurance if the plan allows coverage after graduation or while on OPT. Plans like Student Journey (IMG), StudentSecure (WorldTrips), and Patriot Exchange Program (IMG) can provide continued coverage for OPT students, but you should check the plan terms for eligibility and duration.
To purchase F1 student health insurance in California, you need:
Some providers may also request your student ID number or proof of enrollment. Most plans can be purchased online with digital copies of these documents.
You can compare health insurance plans for California students on American Visitor Insurance allows you to compare top-rated insurance plans based on waiver requirements, coverage benefits, and pricing.
Students can find a doctor or hospital by using the PPO network search tool provided by their insurance plan. After purchasing student health insurance, they receive access to a provider directory where they can search for in-network doctors, clinics, or hospitals by location and specialty. Visiting in-network providers ensures lower out-of-pocket costs and smoother claim processing.Many student insurance plans use the UnitedHealthcare PPO network, one of the most popular and widely accepted healthcare provider networks in the USA. You can follow our step-by-step guide to find UnitedHealthcare PPO doctors and hospitals near you. Always carry your insurance ID card when visiting a provider.
Yes — many international student medical insurance plans offer monthly payment options that allow you to pay small amounts each month instead of a single annual premium. Monthly student insurance plans can be budget-friendly and flexible, especially for students staying for less than a full year. Keep in mind that monthly payments may result in a slightly higher total cost compared to paying annually.
You can compare affordable monthly student health insurance plans for students in california and across the U.S. through American Visitor Insurance.
Some international student health insurance plans support paper application or assisted enrollment, which is helpful if you don’t have a credit card or cannot complete an online payment. Student medical insurance plans such as Patriot Exchange Insurance and StudentSecure Insurance offer options where students can submit a paper application or work with a representative for offline enrollment.
To confirm current paper application availability, approved payment methods, and step-by-step assistance, you can contact American Visitor Insurance at (877)-340-7910 or speak with a licensed expert during the enrollment process.
The information presented on American visitors insurance is for providing resources and health insurance for students in California. The resource provided here is in no any way intended to indicate any relationship between your California school/college/university and our company. International students should verify directly with the concerned California school/college/university to confirm whether this health insurance for college students in California meets the university F1 visa student insurance requirements.
Insurance plans for students on OPT status, OPT student insurance.
Learn More »Compare and buy student health insurance quotes California online.
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