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International US

What to know about medical insurance as an international student

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Medical care in the U.S. is expensive, and without proper coverage, even a small emergency could lead to high bills. That’s why medical insurance for international students is often required by universities and sometimes linked to visa compliance.

This page explains how international student health insurance works, what to expect from plans and how to stay protected while studying in the U.S.

Is health insurance required for international students?

J-1 exchange visitors: Yes. Federal regulations require J-1 and J-2 students and their dependents to carry health insurance for the entire length of their program. Coverage must include at least US$100,000 per accident or illness, medical evacuation and repatriation benefits and a deductible of no more than US$500. Program sponsors are responsible for making sure these standards are met.

F-1 students: There is no federal rule that mandates insurance for F-1 visa holders. However, most universities make health insurance a condition of enrollment. Many schools automatically enroll F-1 students in their student plan unless you can prove you have comparable coverage.

What universities often require (examples, not federal law):

  • A minimum coverage amount for accidents or illnesses, plus evacuation and repatriation benefits
  • A deductible cap and coverage for prescriptions and mental health care
  • Continuous coverage for the full academic year or term

Preventive care and ACA compliance: Preventive services are not part of the J-1 federal requirements. Some schools insist on ACA-compliant plans, but many international student plans are not ACA-compliant. Always check your university’s waiver criteria to know exactly what is required.

A student walks out of a university clinic holding a folder labeled.

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Types of health insurance plans for international students

There are generally three ways international students in the U.S. and Canada get covered:

1. University-sponsored plans

These plans are designed specifically for students at your school and often meet all compliance requirements. They may be more expensive but offer broad coverage and simple enrollment.

2. Private international student insurance

Students may buy a private plan if the school allows waivers, but the plan must meet the university’s standards. Confirm minimums like medical benefits, evacuation and repatriation and check whether the school requires ACA compliance. Many international-only plans are not ACA-compliant.

3. Government or embassy-sponsored coverage

Some sponsored exchange programs provide coverage for their participants. For example, U.S. government-funded Fulbright grantees receive health benefits through the Accident and Sickness Program for Exchanges. Certain cultural missions also arrange group coverage for their sponsored students. Coverage terms vary by sponsor, so read the details.

Whichever option you choose, it should be active by the time you begin classes. Your F-1 visa requirements may not list insurance explicitly, but most schools include it in the cost of attendance and their requirements.

What medical costs to expect in the U.S.

Without insurance, a single trip to the emergency room can cost over US$1,000. Even routine care, like a doctor’s visit, can range from US$100 to US$300. Actual costs vary widely depending on your state, provider and whether you have insurance.

Every health insurance plan will vary in what they cover. Here are some items they might include:

  • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Office visits
  • Emergency room care
  • Lab tests and imaging
  • Prescriptions
  • Mental health services

Many schools also operate on-campus clinics that offer basic care or referrals to nearby providers.

Knowing what is and is not included in your plan can help avoid surprise bills. Always keep your insurance card and understand how copays, deductibles and out-of-pocket limits work.

What to do if insurance is unaffordable

If you’re struggling with coverage costs, start by asking your international office or financial aid department about options. Many students qualify for international student aid that includes living or insurance costs.

Other steps include:

  • Applying for a payment plan for your school-sponsored coverage
  • Comparing private plans approved by your university
  • Checking for scholarships or emergency funds

Your health matters, and so does your peace of mind. Do not wait until you need care to find out what your coverage includes.

What to do if insurance is unaffordable

MPOWER Financing’s support for health-related expenses and security

MPOWER Financing helps international students handle real-world costs like tuition and living expenses in the U.S. Health insurance may not be paid directly through loan disbursement, but MPOWER’s resources provide support in other ways.

Here’s how MPOWER helps:

  • Student loan amounts reflect your school’s full cost of attendance, which may include insurance.
  • Student loan documents support visa interviews and enrollment proof.
  • Disbursements sent to schools can help cover other fees so you can focus on health needs.
  • Path2Success resources include budgeting guidance that factors in medical costs.
  • Financial aid scholarships reduce out-of-pocket strain, making coverage more manageable.

A reliable insurance plan is part of a stable student experience. MPOWER helps make that experience possible.

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FAQs

Is medical insurance required for F-1 students?

Most schools require it, even if it’s not listed as a visa requirement. Check with your university to confirm coverage deadlines and rules.

Can I choose my own insurance provider?

Sometimes. If your university allows waivers or for you to choose your own plan, you can choose a private plan that meets their coverage standards.

How much does student health insurance cost?

Plans can range from US$500 to US$2,000 per academic year depending on coverage, provider and location.

What if I don’t have insurance and get sick?

You will be responsible for the full cost of care. Always carry proof of insurance and know where to go in case of illness.

Does MPOWER Financing cover medical insurance?

While MPOWER does not pay insurance directly, loan amounts are based on your university’s cost of attendance, which often includes insurance. Scholarships and support services also help students manage these costs.


*Rates as low as 9.99% (10.89% APR). This interest rate and APR includes a 0.25% discount for automatic recurring payments.

DISCLAIMER – Subject to credit approval, loans are made by Bank of Lake Mills or MPOWER Financing, PBC. Bank of Lake Mills does not have an ownership interest in MPOWER Financing. Neither MPOWER Financing nor Bank of Lake Mills is affiliated with the school you attended or are attending. Bank of Lake Mills is Member FDIC. None of the information contained in this website constitutes a recommendation, solicitation or offer by MPOWER Financing or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments or other assets or provide any investment advice or service.

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