Health insurance for international students in the U.S.
Many international students get confused about shopping for health insurance abroad. Don’t worry! We’re here to help. The American health care system differs from other countries around the world. Let’s break down the basics of student health insurance so international students studying in the U.S. can understand it more easily.
Are international students required to have health insurance?
In the United States, international students on an F or M visa aren’t required by law to have health insurance, but many schools require students to have some type of plan. Some schools in the U.S. offer predetermined plans to make the process easier. While it might be convenient, it’s not always the most cost-efficient option or might not meet your health coverage needs.
Currently, there are four insurance requirement categories at U.S. universities. These options vary greatly from one university to the next and are set by your institution:
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- Mandatory: You must take the school’s insurance policy.
- Mandatory with waiver: You must purchase the school’s plan unless you find an alternative that meets specific requirements set by your school.
- Mandatory choice: You’re required to have an insurance plan, but you can choose any plan that meets your school’s requirements. This is the most common type.
- Optional: You can choose any plan you qualify for, and your school might not even require you to have a plan.
If your school doesn’t require health insurance for international students, it’s still best to have a plan. Having a policy provides peace of mind so in the event that you become ill or injured, you have coverage!
What are some of the key benefits students should look for in an insurance plan?
There’s a wide array of insurance plans available offering different coverage. The first step to identifying the key benefits is to look into your school’s requirements. You’ll gain a solid understanding of what your plan must cover.
Here are some key benefits that your plan cover should cover:
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- Doctor visits
- Hospitalization
- Prescriptions
- Mental health
- Repatriation
- Emergency medical evacuation
Without good coverage for basic medical needs, you may find yourself in financial trouble in the long run.
It’s also crucial to identify hidden limits. Some insurance companies offer plans with sub-limits that limit the amount they will pay for treatment, even if your total plan limit is higher. For example, you might have US$100,000 coverage per hospitalization, but in the fine print, insurance will cover only US$500 per day.
What health insurance benefits are good to have but are not essential?
If you want or need more than just basic health insurance coverage, there are options. Some companies offer plans for international students that cover organized sports injuries, maternity and preexisting conditions.
Most health insurance policies for international students focus on assisting with accidents and illnesses – and not providing preventative treatments. That’s why dental, vision, wellness, congenital disorders and self-inflicted and sport-related injuries are commonly excluded from student health insurance plans. These exclusions help keep the cost of insurance affordable.
Make sure the insurance you’re selecting fits not only your budget but also provides good coverage for your medical needs. To dive deeper into the nuances of international student health insurance, watch to learn more:
What’s the timeline to start looking for a health insurance plan?
It’s good to start looking and researching plans when you’re applying to schools because the cost of insurance will be included as one of the expenses you must cover in order to receive your I-20. However, some schools may require you to show proof of insurance for admission purposes. It’s always better to double-check with your school.
When should a health insurance plan start?
Choosing the start date for your plan is important. Most students choose to start their coverage the same month they begin classes. Make sure your insurance begins the day you arrive in the U.S. Some schools have specific date requirements that you need to take into account as well.
Where do I start exploring options for health insurance?
Having a choice when it comes to selecting health insurance is valuable. Fortunately, there are a wide array of plans available for foreign students.
MPOWER Financing partners with qualified insurance providers to deliver comprehensive health insurance for you. Visit our Student Health Insurance page to learn more and explore available plans.
Foreign students should prioritize health insurance for a worry-free academic journey abroad. Whether required by a school or not, having coverage is essential. When exploring insurance plans, focus on understanding plan benefits and matching them to your needs.
