Understanding your health and travel insurance options is crucial if you plan to study abroad in the United States. Policies and requirements may vary depending on the type of visa an international student holds. These differences are not always straightforward, which is why we’ll be providing clarity on US health and travel insurance in this blog.
Travel Insurance in the United States
International students planning to study abroad in the US should consider purchasing travel insurance. The purpose of travel insurance is to safeguard you and your belongings during your trip from your home country to the US. Most of the time, international students’ travels go smoothly, but it’s important to plan for all scenarios. As they say, hope for the best and prepare for the worst, and buying travel insurance is a great way to do so.
A typical travel insurance plan includes:
- Medical care in case of an accident or illness
- Reimbursement (up to a certain amount) for the damage, destruction, or loss of baggage and personal belongings
- Personal liability
- For example, if you cause property damage or personal injury to someone else during your travels, the insurance company will pay for consequential losses up to a certain amount
- Trip disruption
- For example, if your connecting flight is delayed, your travel insurance will cover your accommodation and food during your wait time, if necessary
- The cost of bringing a family member or friend to stay with you in case you are hospitalized
Please note that not all travel insurance plans cover all of the above circumstances. It’s your responsibility to do your research and see what travel insurance plans are available to you.
Tip: Some credit cards offer travel insurance, so check with your bank to learn your options!
Health Insurance in the United States
When anticipating your living expenses, you should budget for health insurance. The estimated cost of health insurance is between US$700 and US$1,100 per year. Though this may sound like a lot, it’s a fraction of what US medical care costs without health insurance. It’s recommended that international students begin researching health insurance plans approximately four to five months before they arrive in the United States.
Exploring multiple study abroad destinations? Learn how international students can get health and travel insurance in Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Health Insurance for International Students Holding F and M Student Visas
International students holding F and M student visas must cover all medical costs incurred during their time in the US. Curious about the difference between these two visa types? Please refer to the following definitions:
- F Student Visa: For students studying at a college or university in the US or to study English at a US English language institute
- M Student Visa: For students looking for non-academic or vocational study or training in the US
Many Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified colleges and universities have their own health insurance plans for students, and it’s often mandatory that students opt into these plans. However, fees and requirements associated with health care differ across institutions. Be sure to speak with your designated school officials (DSO) to find out health insurance costs and options. To make accessing health care easier for their students, many colleges and universities have an on-campus health centre that offers general medical care, including first aid treatment for minor injuries and illnesses.
Health Insurance for International Students Holding J Exchange Visas
A J Exchange Visa is for students participating in an academic exchange program at the high school or university level. J-1 exchange visitors and any accompanying J-2 dependents are required to maintain appropriate health insurance for the entirety of their J exchange visitor program. To protect international students and their families from the high cost of US medical care, the US Government has established minimum levels of health insurance coverage. It’s recommended that international students check with their responsible officer (RO) or alternate responsible officer (ARO) to better understand their options.
Minimum levels of health insurance coverage must provide:
- Medical benefits of at least US$100,000 per illness or accident
- A deductible that is not to surpass US$500 per illness or accident
- Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to their home country in the amount of US$50,000
- Repatriation of remains in the amount of US$25,000
Additionally, the insurance company underwriting the policy must have specific ratings. Lastly, it’s important to note that US government regulations require that J programs are to be terminated if a J-1 exchange visitor or their J-2 dependent willfully fails to remain in compliance with insurance requirements.
Now that you have a basic understanding of US health and travel insurance, search for study abroad opportunities in the United States on ApplyBoard!
