These days Universities in the United States are requiring incoming students to show proof of health insurance in order to enroll. For many U.S. residents, this usually doesn’t pose a problem, as they’re often covered by their parents health insurance plans. But for international students visiting the U.S. for a semester or more, this can be an issue. For these students, international student medical insurance provides an ideal solution to this enrollment requirement.
Most schools offer insurance plans of their own to students, but oftentimes international student insurance plans are more comprehensive and convenient options. With a school-administered plan, you may find yourself paying high fees for visits to doctors or clinics outside of your college campus, and high premiums overall. International student health insurance plans give you the freedom to select the healthcare provider you prefer.
International student medical insurance is available to students residing in the United States on student visas, and it can also be used to cover a student’s children and/or spouse. Many university plans do not offer the option to cover dependents and only cover the student himself/herself.
As a student, especially an international one, you probably won’t have a job while attending school, and your disposable income is likely to be limited, so the cost of an international student health insurance plan will be a very important factor for you. And since students usually have less frequent doctor visits and fewer health issues because of their age, it’s not logical to spend a great deal of money on an insurance plan that you won’t often use.
For example, if you don’t often visit the doctor, you may wish to elect a higher deductible, which will lower your premiums. Or you may want to choose a program with a lower overall coverage amount, as this will also minimize your monthly expense for study abroad insurance policies.
As you’re researching your options for international student insurance plans, you?ll find the Internet can be an excellent tool in finding the right plan at the right price. Conduct a few searches online and you should be able to find a plan that offers the right level of coverage at a cost that makes sense for your budget. Before making your purchase, consult with someone in your schools Registrar’s office to ensure the policy you’re buying will meet the school’s requirements.
Try researching these policies on Internet message boards frequented by international students as well. They may have insight for you as to levels of coverage you need, as well as specific recommendations regarding the most cost-effective international student medical insurance plans.
Proof of insurance is now as important a prerequisite for enrollment at many schools as a passing SAT score. Learn your school’s minimum requirements for insurance as you’re preparing to enroll, and then find an international student health insurance policy that best suits your personal needs.
Dan Miller often writes about international student insurance.