Comparing international student health insurance, Best US Student medical insurance for F1 visa foreign students

International Student Medical Insurance USA

The new college semester is fast approaching it is that time of the year when students are enrolling for the semester courses in US universities.

It is a known fact that healthcare in the US is expensive and since it does not have a nationalized healthcare system, individuals have to pay for all medical expenses.

This means it is required for the foreign students to buy good international student health insurance as it is unimaginable to handle the healthcare costs out of pocket. With many international student medical insurance plans available online in the market.

International student medical insurance

International student medical insurance can be cumbersome and complicated to choose, so a checklist of University requirements is important.
American Visitor Insurance has developed a compare Covid19 student medical insurance tool to help international students find and buy the best student insurance with Covid19 coverage .
To get a free price quote, required inputs include: student’s age, study duration, preferred deductible, preferred medical policy maximum, country of citizenship, and country for education.
The tool provides a summary list of available student health insurance plans with premium price, Underwriter, Rating, Direct Billing details, Co-Insurance, Renewability, and other benefits.
Plan details can be accessed using the "details" button while coverage and benefit details are available through the "Brochure" button

All international health insurance for students on the F1 visa (student Visa) in the US are from top rated insurance providers and are popular.
It is important to check specific University requirements while selecting a plan.
Some basic requested benefits include coverage for pre-existing condition, pregnancy and maternity coverage, mental health and substance abuse, and coverage for sports.
Preventive care services and wellness coverage re available only with some plans, such as the Geoblue Navigator from Geoblue.
The popular plan section lists plans that are popular for unique reasons, and getting a price quote will show more plans and details to help choose the right plan.

📝Note: Coverage for pre-existing conditions usually involves a waiting period of 6 months or 12 months depending on the insurance plan.

✅ Key Benefits to Look For in Insurance Plans

Coverage for pre-existing conditions (usually with waiting period)
Pregnancy and maternity coverage
Mental health and substance abuse coverage
Coverage for sports activities
Preventive care and wellness services (e.g., Geoblue Navigator plan)
Direct billing options
Renewability of the plan

Student Insurance Quotes »

What Are the Advantages of Buying Health Insurance Within a PPO for International Students?

A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) for student health insurance can be extremely beneficial for international students seeking coverage in the USA under emergency.

PPOs offer a large network of doctors, specialists, hospitals, and clinics across the USA. This gives international students a much wider choice of healthcare providers compared to other plan types (like HMOs, which often restrict you to a specific network or require referrals).
When students are in a new country, navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming. A vast PPO network means it's usually easier to find an in-network provider near your university or temporary residence, making it convenient to seek care when needed.
PPOs negotiate discounted rates with their in-network providers. When international students consult an in-network doctor or visit an in-network hospital, they benefit from these lower, pre-negotiated prices.
Student health insurance in USA are typically structured so that the out-of-pocket costs (deductibles, copayments, coinsurance) are significantly lower when you use in-network providers. For example, a common PPO structure might pay 100% of costs after deductible when in-network, but only 60% when out-of-network.
Many in-network providers will bill the insurance company directly, reducing the amount students have to pay upfront and then seek reimbursement for. This simplifies the financial process considerably.
With a PPO, students typically do not need a referral from a primary care physician (PCP) to see a specialist (like a dermatologist, orthopedist, or cardiologist). This means they can directly schedule an appointment with the specialist they need, saving time and simplifying the process, especially when dealing with specific health issues.
International Student Health Insurance PPO plans provide online directories or apps where students can search for in-network doctors, hospitals, and clinics by specialty, location, and even language spoken.
When students receive health care services, they have to present their insurance ID card. The provider will verify the coverage and bill the insurance company directly for the in-network portion.
Lastly the students will be responsible for the deductible amount which they need to pay before the insurance starts covering costs and any copayments or coinsurance which is the student’s share of the costs after the deductible as per the chosen plan's benefits.

A buying student health insurance with good PPO network provides international students with a balance of broad access to quality healthcare providers and significant cost savings when using in-network services. This makes navigating the complex US healthcare system much more manageable and affordable.

Why Is the US a Popular Destination for International Students?

The U.S. continues to be a top choice for international students, offering not only academic excellence but also practical work opportunities through programs like OPT. With rising enrollment and record-high participation in OPT, the country solidifies its position as a leader in global education and career advancement. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities to build a strong foundation for their future careers.

The total number of international students in the U.S. reached 11,26,690 in the academic year 2023-24, marking a 6.6% increase compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the U.S.'s continued appeal as a global education hub. International students now make up 5.9% of the total U.S. student enrollment, reflecting the diversity and global reach of American higher education.

Year	Total international students	% international students
2023-2024	11,26,690	5.9%
2022-2023	10,57,188	5.6%
2021-2022	9,48,519	4.7%

💰 What Is the Cheapest Health Insurance for International Students In the USA?

The Cheapest health insurance for F-1 international students is the Student Journey Lite plan, with premiums starting at just $30 per month.

Other Affordable student health insurance options also includes the StudentSecure Smart plan and the Student Journey Plus plan.

Student Journey Lite

$30 per month

Age: 20 years | $360 per year

Policy maximum: $150,000
Deductible: $100 per injury/illness
Student health center deductible/copay: $45
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
Renewal: Can be renewed from 30 days to 12 months.

Brochure Buy now

StudentSecure Smart

$32 per month

Age: 20 years | $372 per year

Policy maximum: $200,000
Deductible: $0
Student health center copay: $25 per visit
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: No coverage
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.

Brochure Buy now

Student Journey Plus

$48 per month

Age: 20 years | $576 per year

Policy maximum: $300,000
Deductible: $500 per period
Student health center deductible/copay: $25
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
Renewal: Can be renewed from 30 days to 12 months.

Brochure Buy now

🏆 What Is the Best Health Insurance for International Students?

The Best health insurance plans for international students in the USA include Student Journey Platinum by IMG, the Patriot Exchange Program from IMG, and StudentSecure Select from WorldTrips.

Selecting the right plan depends on several factors such as your individual health needs, budget, university insurance requirements, and visa status.

Patriot Exchange Program

$56 per month

Age: 20 years | $938 per year

Policy maximum: $50,000
Deductible: $250 per illness/injury
Student health center deductible/copay: $5
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 12 months of waiting period.
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months

Brochure Buy now

Student Journey Platinum

$74 per month

Age: 20 years | $888 per year

Policy maximum: $500,000
Deductible: $250 per period
Student health center deductible/copay: $15
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.

Brochure Buy now

StudentSecure Select

$106 per month

Age: 20 years | $1248 per year

Policy maximum: $1,000,000
Deductible: $0
Student health center copay: $10 per visit
Direct billing:
Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.

Brochure Buy now

How Much Does F1 Student Health Insurance Cost In the US in 2025?

How much is Low-cost medical insurance for international students in America? How much does Insurance for foreign students in America cost per month?

The monthly cost of international student insurance for USA ranges from $30 to $124, depending on the level of coverage selected.

Insurance Plans	Policy maximum	Deductible	Cost
Student Journey Lite	$150,000	$100	$30
StudentSecure Smart	$200,000	$0	$32
Student Journey Plus	$300,000	$500	$48
StudentSecure Budget	$500,000	$0	$53
Patriot Exchange	$50,000	$250	$56
Diplomat America	$50,000	$250	$71
Student Journey Platinum	$500,000	$250	$74
StudentSecure Select	$1,000,000	$0	$106
Student Health Advantage Standard	$500,000	$250	$124

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

What affects the student health insurance cost?

Several factors influence the price, including:

Student’s age
Coverage duration
Policy maximum & medical benefits
Deductible and co-insurance levels
Optional add-ons (e.g., maternity, mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports and coverage for pre-existing ailments)

International student health insurance USA

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How Much Does Health Insurance for US Students Studying Abroad Cost?

The monthly cost of health insurance for U.S. students studying abroad typically ranges from $26 to $289, depending on the level of coverage selected.

Insurance Plan	Policy Maximum	Deductible	Cost (USD)
StudentSecure Smart ^WorldTrips	$200,000	$0	$26
Patriot Exchange Program ^IMG	$50,000	$250	$39
StudentSecure Budget ^WorldTrips	$500,000	$0	$47
Student Health Advantage Standard ^IMG	$500,000	$250	$82
StudentSecure Select ^WorldTrips	$1,000,000	$0	$80
Student Health Advantage Platinum ^IMG	$1,000,000	$25	$246
Navigator Student ^GeoBlue	Unlimited Coverage	$0	$289

What Factors Affect the Cost for U.S. Students Studying Abroad?

Several factors influence the price, including:

Student’s age
Coverage duration
Policy maximum & medical benefits
Deductible and co-insurance levels
Optional add-ons (e.g., maternity, sports coverage, CFAR)

For example, the best student health insurance for a 20-year-old international student can start as low as $26 per month for basic coverage and go up to $289 per month for comprehensive plans with higher benefits and unlimited coverage.

Health insurance for US students studying abroad

Review student insurance plan benefits.

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What Does International Student Insurance Cover?

local_hospital

Health Care Expenses

Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.

sports_soccer

Sports Activities

Some plans cover high school sports activities.

local_hospital

Repat of Remains

Repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.

dentistry

Dental Coverage

Expenses from sudden dental pain and accidental dental injuries.

pregnancy

Maternity Coverage

Some plans offer coverage for pregnancy, maternity and new born.

cardiology

Pre-existing Conditions

Student insurance who need coverage for existing medical ailments.

What Makes AmericanVisitorInsurance the Smarter Choice for International Students Insurance?

Cost-Effective Alternatives: Enjoy students insurance coverage on par with university-sponsored plans, but at significantly lower premiums—without compromising on benefits. You're getting exceptional value.

Whether you're on an F-1, J-1, OPT, M-1, or even a dependent visa like F-2 or J-2, our plans are engineered to meet those unique requirements so you stay compliant, covered, and stress-free.

From acute illness and chronic condition support to maternity, mental health, sports, and even device protection our plans are flexible and globally effective no more battling campus restrictions when heading off-site or on OPT. Not just limited to semesters renewable coverage through OPT, transfer between universities without hassle, and extensions beyond graduation make our plans a seamless companion throughout your U.S. journey.

International Student Health Insurance Reviews

“ After rigorous searching for suitable student health insurances online, I stumbled upon the American visitor Insurance website and the customer representatives were really patient and helpful in guiding me with the best plan. ”

Anirudh

“ Your customer service provided me with perfect service and helped me very much to find policy I needed (for J2 visa). She was very polite and answered all my questions. I'm fully satisfied with the service. Thank you very much! ”

Amanda

💰What Are the Most Popular International Student Health Insurance Plans?

The cost of international student health insurance starts as low as $30 per month . The exact price may vary depending on several factors such as the student’s age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and coinsurance.

The table below provides a clear side-by-side comparison of some of the most popular student health insurance plans designed for international students. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable monthly premium ,the highest coverage amount, or flexible payment options , this chart will help you choose the plan that best fits your health needs and budget while studying in the U.S.

Costs are based on quotes for 20-year-old students traveling to the USA

Plan name	Max coverage	Deductible	Pre-existing coverage	Monthly cost	Yearly cost	Payment option
Student Journey Lite ^IMG	$150,000 per injury/illness	$100	Covered after 6 months	$30	$360	Annual payment
StudentSecure Smart ^WorldTrips	$200,000 overall maximum	$0	Not covered	$32	$372	Monthly & Annual
Student Journey Plus ^IMG	$300,000 per injury/illness	$500	Covered after 6 months	$48	$576	Annual payment
StudentSecure Budget ^WorldTrips	$500,000 overall maximum	$0	Covered after 12 months	$53	$624	Monthly & Annual
Patriot Exchange ^IMG	$500,000 overall maximum	$500	Covered after 12 months	$66	$794	Annual payment
Student Joureny Platinum ^WorldTrips	$500,000 per injury/illness	$250	Covered after 6 months	$74	$888	Annual payment
Student health advantage standard ^IMG	$500,000 overall maximum	$250	Covered after 12 months	$95	$1,146	Monthly & Annual
StudentSecure Select ^WorldTrips	$1,000,000 overall maximum	$0	Covered after 6 months	$106	$1,248	Monthly & Annual
StudentSecure Elite ^WorldTrips	$5,000,000 overall maximum	$0	Covered after 6 months	$181	$2,135	Monthly & Annual
Student Health Advantage Platinum ^IMG	$1,000,000 overall maximum	$100	Covered after 6 months	$282	$3,389	Monthly & Annual

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

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❓International Student Insurance Faq's

International student health insurance is health insurance coverage for individuals who are studying abroad either short or long term while away from their home countries. Many of the US domestic health insurance plans may not cover a person fully while abroad.

Also, some international programs may require certain levels of health insurance while participating in their programs. Luckily, we at American Visitor Insurance have made it easy to compare and find a student health insurance plan just right for you and your situation.

Yes, international students can and should get good international student health insurance. At American Visitor Insurance, we work with US insurance providers who have designed excellent health insurance for international students studying in the USA as well as for US students studying outside the USA.

International students can compare international student insurance products on our website and buy the best student insurance plan that suits their needs. The student insurance policy document will be emailed to the student on completing the online transaction.

Most international student health insurance plans seem similar on first impressions. However, while they have many benefits in common and the premium is also similar, different student insurance plans do have some additional benefits or perhaps some specific constraints.

In order to choose the best plan based on the students requirements and to get sufficient coverage from the international student insurance plan, it is important to compare different features available in the student health insurance plan.

The following are important factors for comparing student health insurance plans:

Policy Maximum: This is the maximum amount on the insurance plan which normally ranges from $50,000 up to $1,000,000. This is the maximum a policy can cover in case of an extreme emergency as per the policy guidelines and conditions mentioned in the policy.
Deductible: The deductible options can range anywhere from $50 up to $5000 between the plans. A larger deductible means lower premium price and vice versa. Picking a large deductible thus low premium by choosing a comprehensive plan is usually recommended, as most of the comprehensive plans have an one time deductible and is cost effective.
Pre existing condition coverage: This is very important benefit factor as many customers need this benefit. The student plans have a minimum 6 month waiting period for coverage of pre-existing conditions.
Coverage for mental illness and drug abuse: This coverage is required by most of the universities.
Cancellation and Renewability: Each plan have their unique cancellation and renew-ability policies. It is important to pay attention to it if there is any ambiguity while booking insurance initially.
Sports and other unique activities: Some of the plans provide coverage for intercollegiate and interscholastic sports.
Based on these factors, American Visitor Insurance provides an excellent compare student medical insurance facility where getting quotes as per students’ requirements. Once the required information is entered in the form, a summary of popular student insurance plans are displayed which can be compared.