Health Insurance for International Students & Exchange Visitors
Find international student insurance that meets your program’s requirements.
Student & Exchange Visitor Health Insurance
Learn More About International Student Insurance
Do you have questions about insurance for international students or scholars? We can answer that!
Browse Insurance GuideFrequently Asked Questions About International Student Insurance in the US
How much does health insurance cost for international students in the US?
The exact cost for international student health insurance in the US depends on a variety of factors including your length of stay, whether or not you are covering any F2 dependents, and the specific plan you choose.
Is insurance required for international students?
The health insurance requirements for international students depend on the school you will be attending. Each college or university will state their insurance requirements for international students. Be sure to purchase a student insurance plan that meets each off them.
What are insurance options for J1 and J2 visa holders?
All J-1 and J-2 visa holders are required to have insurance coverage that meets the minimum standards set by the US Department of State. The J1 insurance plans we offer meet all State Department requirements.
What is OPT health insurance for F1 students?
OPT health insurance is medical insurance specifically for international students taking part in Optional Practical Training, or OPT, a program that allows international graduates to remain in the US for up to 36 months in order to gain relevant work experience in their field of study. If you want to know how to apply for OPT, contact your Designated School Official (DSO).
Optional Practical Training (OPT) Insurance Plans
OPT Medical Insurance for Recent Foreign Graduates
Optional Practical Training (OPT) insurance is short-term health insurance for recent foreign graduates taking part in OPT. Some OPT participants use OPT insurance as a stopgap measure until their employer-sponsored health insurance is available, and others remain on it for the entirety of their OPT program.
Find the best OPT insurance plan tailored for your needs
Benefits of OPT Medical Insurance
Emergency Medical Care
For new medical conditions, accidents or injuries that occur during your program.Emergency Medical Care
PPO Network
For lower rates and direct billing from the provider to the insurance company.PPO Network
Pre-Existing Conditions
Acute onset coverage available with select OPT insurance plans.Pre-Existing Conditions
Trip Interruption
Medical Evacuation/Repatriation
Transportation to the nearest medical facility where adequate care can be given.Medevac
Return of Mortal Remains
Financial assistance in the unfortunate event of your passing away while abroad on OPT.Return of Mortal Remains
Lost Luggage
Financial protection in the event that your airline permanently loses your checked luggage.Lost Luggage
AD&D Coverage
Can provide a lump sum benefit in the event that the insured is dismembered or dies in an accident.Accidental Death & Dismemberment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OPT health insurance for international students?
OPT health insurance is medical insurance specifically for those taking part in Optional Practical Training, or OPT, a program that allows international graduates to remain in the US for up to 36 months in order to gain relevant work experience in their field of study. If you want to know how to apply for OPT, contact your Designated School Official (DSO).
What are the key benefits of OPT insurance?
The key benefits of OPT insurance are its medical coverage. Insurance for OPT students can typically cover new medical conditions that occur after the effective date of the policy. Due to the high price of healthcare in the USA, the best health insurance for OPT students is critically important to have.
Is health insurance mandatory for OPT?
Health insurance for OPT participants is not mandatory. However, it may be the only health insurance OPT students qualify for. Once you graduate, you can no longer be covered by F1 international student insurance, so you will need OPT insurance until you either leave the US or get an H1B visa job with employer-sponsored health benefits.
Can F1 students get Obamacare?
F1 students are not able to purchase PPACA (Obamacare) health insurance. They have the option to either purchase their own international student health insurance, or they may be required to purchase insurance through their school.
How much does an OPT health insurance policy cost?
The cost of OPT health insurance will depend on the specific plan you purchase, the length of coverage, and your personal details. Enter your information in the quote form above to view and compare multiple plans that may meet your needs.