The US healthcare system is expensive, and many universities require student health insurance so that you can access medical care. Buying the right health insurance before you go abroad is essential for your safety and financial security.
Here’s why you need international student health insurance for the USA
High Cost of Healthcare - The cost of healthcare in the US is very high. A routine checkup might set you back by a large amount.
Lack of Universal Healthcare - The US healthcare system is not a universal system. All hospitalization expenses have to be met out of pocket.
University Requirements - Most universities have mandatory rules which require international students to have student health insurance.
Financial Protection - Without insurance, a trip to the emergency room after a small incident can set you back by a lakh of rupees. Substantial out-of-pocket costs make international student health insurance necessary.
Peace of Mind - Having health insurance provides peace of mind. Knowing that you have access to quality healthcare makes it easier to focus on education.
Types of Student Health Insurance Plans for the USA
Choosing the right health insurance is essential for students studying in the USA. There are several types of health insurance plans available for students in the USA:
University-Sponsored Plans
Many universities offer their own student health insurance plans. These plans are usually the result of collaboration between the university and a large insurance company in the USA.
Private Insurance Plans
You can buy student health insurance plans online. This gives you complete freedom to choose various factors such as hospital stay coverage and additional coverage options such as mental health care, chronic diseases, etc.
Short-Term Plans
These are ideal for students who will be in the USA for a few months. Students on a J-1 visa who are participating in exchange visitor programs in the USA buy such plans.
Compare Health Insurance Providers for Students in the USA
Bank Name
Loan Amount
Interest Rate
Processing Time
Processing Fee
Upto INR 2 Crore
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto INR 2 Crore
9.50% - 13.50%
10 days
0.75 - 1 %
Upto USD 200K
10.5% - 14%
7 days
100USD+ 5%
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
10.15% - 11.15%
25 days
INR 10,000
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
9.75% - 13%
14 days
0.75%
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
10% - 13%
7 days
0.85 - 1 %
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
10.50% - 13%
7 days
1%
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
10.50% - 13%
7 days
1%
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
11.5% - 13.5%
5 days
0.75 - 1 %
Upto INR 1.5 Crore
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto INR 1 Crore
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto INR 1 Crore
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto INR 2 Crore
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto USD 200K
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Upto USD 200K
9.95% - 12%
7 days
0.5 - 1 %
Coverage Details & Benefits of Student Health Insurance
You must understand what your student health insurance covers. This is essential for staying protected while studying in the USA.
Doctor Visits
Covers consultations with medical professionals and specialists.
Hospital Stays
Covers cost of hospital stay for inpatient treatment.
Emergency Services
Covers costs for urgent medical care and ambulance services
Prescription Medications
Some plans cover the cost of prescribed drugs.
Medical Evacuation
Some plans include coverage for medical evacuation in case of a serious medical emergency
Besides these essentials, you can pay for coverage related to dental care, pre-existing conditions, and repatriation to your home country.
How to Apply for Student Health Insurance in the USA
Select a student health insurance for USA plan that fits your necessity.
Compare Providers
There are many providers such as ISO, Cigna Global, and IMG. Evaluate the various based on coverage, pricing, and benefits.
Submit Documents
Submit necessary documents, such asa letter of admission, proof of enrollment, identification, and visa details.
Complete Payment
Use a debit or credit card to complete the payment and retain the invoice and policy details sent to your email.
Student Testimonials: Real Experiences with Health Insurance for USA
At GradRight we have helped thousands of students secure health insurance for the USA. GradRight offers substantial savings in health insurance costs and allows you to compare multiple plans side by side before you purchase. Hear stories and testimonials from our satisfied clients.
Is health insurance required for students studying in the USA?
There is no compulsory mandate for students entering the USA on a F-1 visa to buy student health insurance. However, nearly all US universities require international students to have adequate health insurance coverage as a condition of enrollment. Note that J-1 visa holders are required by law to hold health insurance for the duration of their visa.
Can I get health insurance for studying in the USA from India?
Yes, you can definitely obtain health insurance for studying in the USA from India. You can buy it from your university during admission. Check with your university to see if they offer a plan and what the requirements are.
Otherwise you can buy from providers such as ISO and IMG. Simply visit their website, create a profile and buy the health insurance plan you want.
What does student health insurance cover in the USA?
Here are the essential benefits a student health insurance plan has to cover:
Ambulatory patient services
Emergency services
Hospitalization
Maternity and newborn care
Mental health and substance use disorder treatment
Prescription drugs
Rehabilitative and habilitative services
Laboratory services
Preventive and wellness services
Pediatric services
Besides it may cover dental cover and coverage for chronic conditions.
What is ACA-compliant insurance in the USA?
In the USA, “ACA insurance” refers to health insurance obtained through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.
The provisions of ACA don’t apply to international students studying in the USA. However, buying an ACA-compliant plan means it must cover the 10 essential benefits outlined above.
What is the cost of student health insurance for the USA?
A simple no-frills plan will cost you between $800 and $2,000. Some packages cost as little as $30 per month. More comprehensive plans might cost up to $3500 per year.