Health Insurance: A Must-Have For International Students

International students often have to navigate a complex healthcare system when studying abroad, and the requirements for health insurance vary depending on the country and institution. In the US, for example, some universities have their own health insurance plans, while others require international students to select their own coverage. While F-1 visa holders are not mandated by the US government to have health insurance, some universities may still require it. J-1 visa holders, on the other hand, are required to have medical insurance for the length of their program. The cost and availability of healthcare can vary greatly, and international students may find themselves underinsured, which can be risky.

Mandatory health insurance for international students

International students on an F1 visa, for instance, are exempt from government-mandated insurance standards. Still, they are required by their universities to show proof of insurance to register for classes. Similarly, J-1 visa students are required under federal mandate to have health insurance to attend classes.

Most schools offer their own health insurance plans, which are typically comprehensive and provide good coverage. However, they tend to be extremely expensive, often costing over $7,000 per semester. Some universities have a mandatory enrollment policy, automatically enrolling students in their health plan. However, some schools allow waivers if students have sufficient coverage through an employer or sponsoring government embassy.

International students can also purchase private health insurance, which is usually the most expensive option. It is important to research and understand the university's policy before buying a private plan, as some schools do not allow international students to purchase a plan outside of the school's policy. There are dozens of international student health insurance companies offering plans designed specifically for international students, with benefits such as emergency medical evacuation, emergency reunion coverage, and repatriation.

When studying abroad, it is crucial to have adequate health insurance. The public subsidies and assistance programs for medical care available to domestic students may not be accessible to international students. Additionally, the cost of medical treatment in the US can be extremely high, and unexpected medical expenses may impact a student's ability to continue their education. Therefore, international students should carefully consider their options and choose a plan that suits their needs and provides financial protection.

Private health insurance

International students can choose from dozens, if not hundreds, of private health insurance companies, ranging from giant global insurance enterprises to smaller, more regionally based operations. The price of private health insurance for international students will depend on where you are studying, how old you are, what type of visa you have, and how much coverage you require. For example, an international student on an F-1 visa enrolled at Louisiana State University has the option of three plans ranging in price from $31-$75 per month. In contrast, a similar student enrolled at the University of the Pacific has only one plan available for $98 per month.

If you are an international student considering private health insurance, it is important to carefully research and compare different plans to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.

School-provided health insurance

International students can get health insurance through their university or a private health insurance policy. Most universities offer their own health insurance plans, and some even make it mandatory to sign up for their insurance. In such cases, students may not be allowed to register for classes without it. This is because universities and colleges require international students to obtain a minimum level of medical coverage for their enrollment period.

For example, if you go to school in Massachusetts, you may not be able to enroll in any health insurance plan other than that of your university because the Massachusetts Universal Health Care Act requires full-time students to have insurance from a qualified domestic insurance program.

If your university does not offer health insurance, you will need to find it through a private insurer. When choosing a private insurer, it is important to do your research and ensure that you get it from a reputable company. The international student office at your university may be able to guide you to the most reputable insurers.

There are several companies that offer international student health insurance plans, such as IMG, ISO, and ISI. These companies provide plans that are designed specifically for international students and offer worldwide coverage, emergency assistance services, and solutions for physical health, mental wellness, financial protection, and crisis support. The plans are also typically budget-friendly and can be tailored to meet visa requirements.

Health insurance for international students on OPT status

As an international student on OPT in the US, you will need to purchase an international student health insurance plan to cover you while working. Although there is no federal mandate for those on F1 OPT to be enrolled, it is highly encouraged due to the high costs of medical services in the country. The United States health care system is the most expensive in the world, and medical treatment can be extremely expensive, so having insurance is essential to protect you from high medical bills.

There are several options for health insurance for international students on OPT. Firstly, some schools may allow you to remain on their international student group insurance plan. However, this is not always the case, as insurance companies may not understand why working adults should receive the same benefits and pricing as students. Additionally, the school's insurance plan may no longer be appropriate once you leave the school's geographic area and no longer have access to their onsite health centre.

Another option is to purchase a separate international student health insurance plan designed specifically for OPT students. These plans can cover you during periods of unemployment, such as when you are job searching after graduation or between jobs. One popular OPT insurance option is the Student Secure plan, which can be purchased while you are still in school or after you have graduated. IMG also offers health insurance plans for international students on OPT, providing coverage in all 50 states through the UnitedHealthCare Network.

When choosing an international student health insurance plan, it is important to consider your individual circumstances, including your health, participation in activities, and financial situation. The cost of the insurance plan, the level of coverage provided, and the convenience of enrolment are also key factors in your decision. It is worth noting that some schools have policies that do not allow international students to purchase a health insurance plan outside of the school policy or require stringent requirements for exceptions. Therefore, it is critical to understand your university's policy before making any decisions.

Health insurance for international students on F, J, Q or M visas

International students on F, J, Q, or M visas are not required by law to have health insurance. However, it is essential to have insurance to protect yourself from the high costs of medical bills in the US, which has the most expensive healthcare system in the world.

Most US universities have set health insurance requirements for international students, and they may require you to show proof of insurance to register for classes. Your school and host country will often require you to purchase a plan that includes a minimum amount of medical coverage for accidents or illnesses. This is because, when living or travelling abroad for extended periods, you will not be covered by either public or private health plans in your home country, and you may not have access to the national health insurance program in your destination country.

There are several different types of health insurance for international students, and each type will have many options and price points. Private health insurance is typically the most expensive option, but you may be able to research and sign up for a plan directly through the health insurance company without going through your university. It is critical to know your university's policy before buying a private plan, as some schools have policies that do not allow international students to purchase a health insurance plan outside of the school policy or enforce stringent requirements before making an exception.

Many universities offer their own health insurance plans, which are designed to meet the requirements of international students. These plans are typically very comprehensive and provide good coverage, but they can also be extremely expensive. Enrolling in your school's plan is very convenient as it is billed as part of your school fees, and some universities have a mandatory enrollment policy.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of international student health insurance companies, ranging from giant global insurance enterprises to smaller, more regionally based operations. Some popular options include IMG, which offers worldwide health insurance for foreign students in the US that follows them wherever they go, and Compass Student Insurance, which provides affordable insurance for international students, scholars, and professionals in the US.

Frequently asked questions