Mechanics of International Student Insurance

Life may be the greatest education of all, but U.S. colleges must come in pretty close, with the U.S. being the top destination for international students! One thing to remember when studying in U.S. colleges and universities is that international student insurance can make or break your life.

Most U.S. colleges offer sponsored international student health insurance. In many cases, a student is automatically enrolled in the college-sponsored plan unless he/she opts out of it. To opt out, an international student usually has to demonstrate comparable insurance from another source.

There are several student health insurance plans available, that satisfy the requirements set forth by most universities. While there is no rule governing insurance requirements for students on an F-1 student visa, most universities have set requirements that include substantial coverage for inpatient and outpatient care, and mental health.

While college-sponsored health insurance includes previously existing conditions, insurance purchased elsewhere may include previously existing conditions after six months of coverage. However, college-sponsored plans have a restricted area of coverage, while other plans usually provide better nationwide coverage.