Health insurance for international students in the US

International students often choose to study in the US, but it can be challenging to understand health insurance. In this article, we describe the operation of the healthcare system and the need for international students studying in the US to have a healthcare plan.

Since there is no national or universal healthcare system that international students can access, healthcare in the United States differs greatly from systems in other nations.  

In the US, individuals needing health insurance are required to select from various private healthcare providers and their available plans. To ensure that they have health insurance as soon as they arrive in the US, international students should investigate their options before starting their studies there.

Why should I take out healthcare insurance in the US?

In the US, medical expenses can be expensive and challenging to pay alone. Depending on the part of the body, an X-ray can cost anywhere from $100 (£82) to $22,000. These costs might be too much for an international student to afford.

Nonetheless, certain health insurance plans may cover most of your medical costs. For instance, students can locate affordable plans created especially for them. You can ensure that you are covered for any medical care or treatment you may require while attending university by purchasing a plan that covers you as an international student studying abroad.

How much does healthcare cost in the US for international students?

Each policy will be different depending on your university, state, or medical history. Certain universities have a program that requires enrollment from every student to ensure that everyone attending the school is covered. Your application requirements may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

If your university does not offer a plan, you can obtain a health insurance policy in another way.

University student health insurance plans range in price from $1,500 to $2,500 per year, depending on additional features and extras you may want. For athletes, sports insurance may provide greater coverage at a higher premium. International students who find and start their plan before travelling to the US will frequently get a better deal. After that, you can use that medical data to support your visa application.

How does health insurance work in the US?

Each type of health cover works slightly differently.

US-based healthcare insurance companies are part of a network that allows them to pay your medical bills directly to the physician, hospital, or clinic, saving you money by not requiring you to make any payments yourself. These plans frequently include a predetermined amount of coverage, such as two annual X-rays and one visit to a specialist. Occasionally, an additional fee may be requested from you, possibly around $100, but the provider will then pay the remaining amount.

Certain providers will pay back any upfront expenses. This does imply that you first need to pay several thousand dollars before receiving any reimbursement. To avoid being caught off guard by this step, you must inquire with your selected provider about how financing your medical bills operates.

Finally, some insurance companies require their clients to complete claim forms and provide supporting documentation before determining whether to pay out on a claim. This does not ensure that your expenses will always be paid for. Ensure you are truthful and include all the information from the start because the insurance company might not cover you if they discover that you have broken any rules or lied on your application.

How can I find the right insurance plan?

You can ask them about the coverage, as many US universities provide group plans to their students. Students can select alternative methods if their university does not offer the range.

While some universities offer a healthcare plan that students must purchase separately, others suggest that international students get reasonably priced health insurance to meet their needs.

To choose the best plan, you should consider the following questions:

What can I afford to pay for a medical emergency?

What is the cost of the insurance plan?

What can I afford to pay monthly/annually for cover?

Do I have any current illnesses that need healthcare coverage?

Will I need medical care in the future?

Do I play any sports for which I should have medical insurance?

You can start comparing the available plans and select the one that best suits your needs once you know what kind of coverage you require and how much you can afford. Ensure you thoroughly investigate each plan and confirm it provides all the necessary coverage. Verify all the details because the least expensive option might only include some things.

How do international students get healthcare in the US?

Here are the steps to secure health insurance as an international student:

• Verify whether the plan offered by your university meets your needs.

• Inquire whether there is an additional fee or your tuition covers the cost.

• Look for US-based organizations that provide health insurance to international students studying there.

• Consult health insurance brokers; they can offer you a better rate.

• Please list what you require from your health insurance and contrast it with the available plans.

• Verify if you can include dependents, if any.

• Choose and pay for the plan that best suits your needs.

What are recommended health insurance plans for international students?

Many companies offer health insurance plans for international students. Highly rated ones for international students include:

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 – Essential, Special and Exclusive

HCCMIS – StudentSecure

GeoBlue

Global Underwriters – Diplomat America plan