Where can I get the best international student health insurance?
Many companies offer international student health insurance. While it is difficult to classify one as better than another, it is important when comparing different plans to look at the
- Overall cost
- Coverage options
- Pre-authorization requirements
- Prescription benefits
To find international student health insurance, you can ask your current health insurance carrier, someone in the health services department of your college, or by searching online.
Are you looking to compare health insurance rates online? Start here by entering your zip code in the box above!
There are many different options when it comes to international student health insurance. The purpose of international student health insurance is to offer health insurance coverage to high school and college students that are studying abroad.
In many cases, the health insurance that a student has in the United States through their college or through their parents will not cover them overseas. They must purchase international health insurance to be covered in case of a medical emergency or for an everyday illness. The U.S. Department of State offers information on what medical insurance is required when travelling to different countries.
Are there different types of international student health insurance coverage?
Yes, different plans are available depending on individual needs. For example, different plans will offer different amounts of coverage. Some plans will cover 100% of the medical costs related to an emergency overseas, while other plans will only cover 80% and require the remaining balance to be paid by the insured individual.
Some international health insurance plans offer:
- Dental coverage
- Maternity coverage
- Newborn care
- Other specialty services
Others will only provide the basic necessities such as coverage at a student health center.
Finally, some health insurance policies will have maximum benefits associated with the coverage, so if you need a major medical procedure while you are a student overseas, you might not have enough to cover all the costs. In this case, you may need to find a way to get back to the United States to get the treatment you need.
Are there any restrictions as far as care I can receive with international student health insurance?
Yes, as some health insurance policies will not cover certain conditions. For example, if you have a pre-existing condition or are pregnant before you travel overseas, you will not be covered with the international health insurance.
However, depending on what the purpose of your time overseas is, you may be eligible to receive extended coverage benefits. As an example, if you are overseas on an official college basketball team, you are covered for any sports injury that occurs while you are playing or practicing with your team.
Are there any emergency benefits available with international student health insurance coverage?
Depending on the international student health insurance company, you may be eligible to receive extended emergency dental care. This coverage gives you the coverage for the care and treatment including surgery to either replace or fix a natural tooth that is damaged or lost in an accident while traveling.
Most health insurance plans will assign a maximum coverage amount in an effort to keep overall costs down. For example, a dental accident may be limited to $200 per tooth, or $1000 maximum per occurrence.
Many international health insurance plans will also provide emergency medical transportation following an evaluation that deems you need treatment that is not available locally. While the transportation ultimately has to be approved by your physician in the United States, you can still count of getting the emergency transportation you need to save your life.
Are there any emergency benefits available for family members of an injured or sick student?
Some international health insurance companies offer a coverage known as reunion coverage. This allows an immediate family to receive coverage for a round trip ticket with all transportation included to get to the hospital or medical center where you are being treated.
In addition, this coverage takes care of reasonable living expenses for a family member for up to a month if it is deemed necessary.
What is the best way to shop for international student health insurance?
If you have health insurance through your parents or your school, contact the insurance company and explain your situation, where you are traveling and for how long, and ask them if they have any recommendations.
Some insurance companies may even offer a rider that covers you with your current insurance plan, or they may have an affiliate overseas that can provide similar and familiar coverage.
If you do not have coverage, talk to someone at your college and university and ask if you can purchase health insurance coverage. Finally, if all else fails, search online as there are several companies that provide health insurance coverage for students traveling overseas.
Still searching for international student health insurance rates? Enter your zip below to get started.
