Life in the States can be rather costly for international scholars. And, of the things for which you’ll pay in the USA, medical care can be one of the most expensive of all. The costs associated with getting sick in the United States can easily spiral out of control, at the exact time when you don’t need to be worrying about paying for anything.
Thus, having the proper medical coverage is an absolute necessity. With that in mind, here’s what you need to know about international student health insurance in the USA.
Most Schools Require Health Insurance
While scholars studying under a J1 visa are required by U.S. law to have medical insurance, it is not a legal requirement to get an F1 visa. On the other hand, practically every college and university in the country requires F1 students to be insured. Thus, it’s a good idea to check your school’s website during your planning stages, because you’ll need to factor that cost into your U.S. living expenses.
Ideally, you’ll get coverage before you arrive, although it’s perfectly acceptable to do so once you’re in-country. Keep in mind, though, that many schools will only allow you to register for classes when you can show proof of medical insurance.
Travel Insurance is Insufficient
Short term and limited coverage travel insurance will not fulfil student health insurance requirements. This makes sense when you think about it. Travel insurance is short-term coverage to protect your body and your belongings while you’re in transit — or for a limited amount of time while you’re on vacation. It won’t carry you through an entire semester of study.
Moreover, once you enrol in school, your travel insurance issuer will expect you to switch to health insurance and deny claims. Student health insurance is designed specifically to meet medical expenses you may encounter while living and attending classes in the States.
Where to Find Medical Coverage
Most schools serving international students have plans to help them cover health care costs. Some require students to sign up for their specific plan. In such instances, you might find that the cost of the insurance is included in your tuition.
While those plans often provide more comprehensive coverage, they can also be more expensive than individual plans. Because of this, schools are often open to outside insurers providing coverage (the waiver option) if the coverage meets the standards established by the school.
In such instances, an organization like Juno can help get you international student health insurance coverage at considerably lower rates than you’ll find on your own. What’s more, if it turns out your school won’t accept it, the carrier with which Juno works will refund your money.
International Student Health Insurance Requirements
Your basic student health insurance plan should provide coverage of a maximum of at least $50,000, with a reasonable deductible amount for you to pay out of your own pocket before the insurance company covers expenses.
Mental health coverage, maternity coverage, pre-existing conditions, and repatriation of your remains to your home nation, should you suffer a mortal illness or injury in the States, are required as well.
While prescription medications are also usually covered, dental and eye care may be excluded, so you may need to opt for insurance coverage for those as well.
Do Not Try to Go Without It
Of all the things you need to know about international student health insurance in the USA, it is impossible to overstate its importance. Even a minor injury or illness can be exceptionally expensive. You don’t want to find yourself in need of care and lacking the funds to get it.