Health insurance for international students in USA: All you need to know

Health insurance is one of the important requirements for international students planning to seek admission to US universities. Candidates are bound to face several challenges when moving to a different country, hence, obtaining a health care plan will help them in covering their medical expenses while studying in the United States.

Getting health insurance for international students in USA is one of the mandatory requirements to get admission to universities in the country. Many top universities in USA provide their own health insurance plans which meets the requirements of a student. This coverage typically includes basic medical care, emergency services, and mental health treatments in some situations.

USA is an expensive country for Indian students, and the healthcare expenses are quite high in the country, hence getting health insurance can help students to face unforeseen situations. Health insurance cost in USA for international students vary widely in terms of coverage, cost, and healthcare providers. Hence, students must choose a health insurance plan based on their funds and needs.

Read the article to know about Health insurance for international students in USA including the best health insurance options, how to get health insurance, health insurance costs, and more.

Is Health Insurance Mandatory for International Students in USA?

Yes, prospective international students should consider medical insurance before applying to and enrolling at a university in the United States. Many United States universities require all students, including international students, to obtain health insurance.

While health insurance is not usually required for F1 student visa in USA, it is however a mandatory requirement to enrol in a university in the country. Hence, candidates must obtain a proper health insurance plan before moving abroad. Students must also check the university’s website to confirm the requirement of health insurance.

What are the Best Health insurance for international students in USA?

The health insurance plans provide coverage of medical expenses while studying in the United States, below are the top health insurance in USA for international students:

• Exchange Guard.

• Student Secure.

• Navigator Student.

• IMG Global: Patriot Exchange Program, Student Health Advantage and Student Health Advantage Platinum

• Cigna Global

• Allianz Worldwide Care: Allianz Care Basic, Allianz Care Pro and Allianz Care Plus

• Foyer Global Health

• GeoBlue

• Diplomat America plan

• Now Health International

How to Get Health Insurance for International Students in USA?

Here are the steps you need to take to receive the best health insurance in USA for international students:

Step 1: Check to see whether your university offers a plan that meets your requirements.

Step 2: Ask if the cost is included with your tuition fee or if there is an additional fee.

Step 3: Search for companies that provide health insurance to international students in the United States.

Step 4: Check with health insurance brokers so that they could potentially help you to get a fair deal.

Step 5: Make a list of your requirements from your health insurance coverage and compare it to the choices that are offered.

Step 6: Consider whether you can include dependents (if applicable).

Step 7: Lastly, select the best plan for yourself and pay to seal the deal. Can International Students get Health Insurance in USA

How much does Health Insurance Cost in USA for International Students?

Health insurance cost in USA for international students vary on several factors such as your university of choice, and state or health background. Some universities have a mandatory requirement of health insurance for foreigners in USA. However, your visa category can create an impact on the requirements that you are required to meet for the health insurance.

Health insurance cost for international students in USA typically cost between USD 1,500 and USD 2,500 per year, with costs varying on extra benefits and coverage options. Some packages are quite affordable, starting at USD 30 per month, while premium plans can cost up to USD 300 per month. However, international students can usually find more affordable deals by purchasing their health insurance coverage before coming to the United States.

How to Find Right Health Insurance for International Students in USA?

There are several US universities that provide health insurance plans in USA for international students, hence students can ask for the benefits covered under the policy directly from the university. There are certain external policies as well, in case students are not satisfied with university’s healthcare plans, they can look for health insurance from external resources to meet their requirements.

Some colleges provide a healthcare plan that students must be purchased separately, while others provide reasonable health insurance for international students that they think would meet their students' requirements. To choose the best health insurance plans, applicants must consider the following questions:

• How much can I afford to pay for a medical emergency?

• How much does the insurance plan cost?

• How much can I afford to pay for coverage on a monthly or annual basis?

• Do I have any current diseases that require healthcare coverage?

• Are there chances that I will require medical treatment in the future?

• Do I engage in any athletic activities that require medical insurance?