Best health insurance for OPT Students in USA
Medical care in the U.S. can be expensive, even after graduation. OPT health insurance plans start at less than $1/day and let you compare 15+ A-rated insurance options with comprehensive medical coverage, emergency care, prescriptions, and nationwide PPO access, so you can work with confidence during your OPT.
Best OPT Student Health Insurance Plans, Medical insurance for OPT students
Patriot America Plus
$47.12
- Plan Maximum
- Deductible
- descriptionPaper Application
- calendar_monthMonthly payment optionclose
- sports_baseballSportscheck
- pregnant_womanMaternityclose
- ecg_heartPre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months.
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StudentSecure Smart
$47.16
- Plan Maximum $100,000
- Deductible $0
- descriptionPaper Application
- calendar_monthMonthly payment optioncheck
- sports_baseballSportscheck
- pregnant_womanMaternityclose
- ecg_heartCovers Acute on set of pre-existing conditions.
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Patriot Exchange
$47.16
- Plan Maximum
- Deductible
- descriptionPaper Application
- calendar_monthMonthly payment optionclose
- sports_baseballSportscheck
- pregnant_womanMaternityclose
- ecg_heartPre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months.
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Atlas America
$50.22
- Plan Maximum
- Deductible
- descriptionPaper Application
- calendar_monthMonthly payment optioncheck
- sports_baseballSportscheck
- pregnant_womanMaternity check
- ecg_heartPre-existing conditions covers after 6 or 12 months
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Which OPT Health Insurance is Right for You?
- Patriot Exchange Program - Best overall health insurance for OPT students looking for affordable comprehensive coverage, flexible deductibles, and access to the UnitedHealthcare PPO network. Ideal for F-1 students on OPT and STEM OPT.
- Atlas America - Best OPT insurance for students who want high policy maximums, worldwide coverage, and coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions (subject to plan terms).
- StudentSecure Smart - Best low-cost OPT medical insurance with a $0 deductible for healthy international students seeking affordable basic coverage, with both monthly and annual payment options.
- StudentSecure Select available for travelers up to age 99
- Student Journey Platinum - Best health insurance for stem OPT students seeking premium benefits, high policy maximums, wellness coverage, and pre-existing condition coverage after the waiting period.
- Patriot America Plus - Best health insurance for OPT students already in the USA who want comprehensive medical coverage, flexible deductibles, access to the UnitedHealthcare PPO network, and coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions for eligible travelers, subject to the policy terms.
- Student Health Advantage - Best insurance for F-1 students on OPT seeking affordable, ACA-style student health insurance with comprehensive benefits, preventive care, prescription drug coverage, mental health benefits, and access to a nationwide PPO provider network. Ideal for students transitioning from university-sponsored health insurance to OPT.
What Are the Health Insurance Options for STEM OPT Students In the USA?
International students in the United States who have completed their required academic coursework whether or not they have formally graduated but still maintain their F1 visa status, may become eligible to participate in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
The OPT program, international students are granted temporary employment authorization to work in their major field of study, allowing them to gain practical experience in their specialized area.
OPT acts as employment authorization for F1 students during this transitional phase as they move toward becoming full-time employees. However, there are important health insurance considerations:
- Students are no longer eligible for school-sponsored health insurance since they are not enrolled in academic coursework.
- Due to the temporary nature of their employment, most OPT students do not receive health insurance from their employers.
During this period, short-term insurance for OPT students is essential to cover medical expenses arising from unforeseen illness or injury.
At American Student Insurance, we assist international students in finding the most appropriate International student medical insurance during their OPT status.
We provide a comparison facilityfor the best insurance for OPT studentshelping them make informed decisions. Similarly, American Visitor Insuranceoffers a compare OPT student health insurance tool, which offers insights and information about suitable plans for OPT holders.
Several of the best health insurance options for international students on OPT are available. Students can easily obtain an instant quote on this page by entering:
The system will then display price details for STEM OPT health insurance plans based on the information entered.
Some more resourceful health insurance for opt international students information is available here where students can find the important student health insurance factors to consider before buying the popular student OPT health insurance and the reason for buying insurance while on the OPT status.
One of the best health insurance plans for OPT students is the Atlas America insurance offered by WorldTrips. This plan is designed specifically for F1 OPT students and remains available even after completing formal coursework, making it an excellent option for continued coverage during the OPT period.
Can OPT Students buy Health Insurance?
Yes, OPT students can buy health insurance. Since they are not typically eligible for school-sponsored health insurance or employer-provided coverage due to the temporary nature of their employment, OPT students can purchase short-term or specialized health insurance plans. OPT health insurance for students on American Visitor Insurance are designed to provide coverage for medical emergencies, illnesses, and injuries during their OPT period.
Do International Students Need OPT Health Insurance?
Yes, international students on OPT (Optional Practical Training) need health insurance. While they are no longer covered by their university's health plan after completing their coursework, they are required to have health insurance to protect against unexpected medical expenses. Since OPT students are often not eligible for employer-sponsored insurance during their temporary employment, purchasing a separate health insurance plan is essential to ensure they have medical coverage during their OPT period in the U.S.
Will my F-1 student health insurance cover me during OPT?
Many student health insurance plans end when you graduate or drop below full-time enrollment. If you’re starting OPT, your insurance needs may shift both because of employment changes and because OPT coverage isn’t automatically included in traditional F-1 student health insurance plans. For a clear comparison of how these plans differ and what to consider when choosing coverage during your OPT period, see our guide on OPT insurance vs F-1 student insurance
Do I Need Health Insurance During OPT?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you have health insurance during your OPT (Optional Practical Training) period.
While on OPT, you are no longer enrolled in your university’s health insurance plan, and you may not have health insurance through your employer since many OPT jobs do not offer health benefits. Without insurance, you could be responsible for significant medical expenses in case of illness or injury.
Is it worth buying US OPT health insurance:
- Medical emergencies: Accidents or unexpected health issues can occur, and having insurance will cover the cost of treatment, reducing your financial risk.
- F1 visa compliance: Some health insurance plans are required to meet certain standards for F1 visa holders, especially if your university has specific requirements.
- Affordable options: There are several affordable short-term plans available that provide necessary coverage for international students on OPT.
If you're on OPT, it is best to look into a specialized OPT health insurance plan that provides the right coverage for medical or emergency expenses while in USA.
OPT Student Health Insurance Cost Calculator In 2026
How much does OPT student insurance cost per month? How much does health insurance for OPT students cost per month?
The OPT student health insurance cost per month ranges from around $42 to $463. The price depends on different factors like the age of the student, the duration, the medical coverage, the deductible and the co-insurance for the plan. Additionally the student health insurance cost in the US also depends on coverage for mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports, maternity and coverage for pre-existing ailments. Here at American Visitor insurance we have calculated the cost of health insurance for international students to help you compare and make an informed choice while buying the plan.
The average cost of OPT student health insurance for a 25 years opt student for one month.
| Insurance Plans | Policy maximum | Deductible | Cost * | Buy Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Patriot America Plus IMG | $50,000 | $250 | $47 | Buy now |
| Atlas America WorldTrips | $50,000 | $250 | $47 | Buy now |
| StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips | $100,000 | $0 | $65 | Buy now |
| Diplomat America Global Underwriters | $50,000 | $250 | $67 | Buy now |
| Patriot Exchange IMG | $50,000 | $250 | $70 | Buy now |
| Study Abroad Student Insurance BCBS | Unlimited Coverage | $0 | $463 | Buy now |
Source: American Visitor Insurance® | Prices verified for 2026 travel season.
What Are the Best International Health Insurance Options for Students?
- Available for F1/F2 and J1/J2 Visa holders.
- Health insurance for F1 students, satisfy F1 visa insurance requirements.
- Obamacare students insurance.
- F1 student visa insurance coverage available at affordable price.
- Sports & Mental Health coverage available.
- Best student group insurance for 2 or more students.
- Maternity and newborn care for covered pregnancy available.
- Waiver form available on buying health insurance in USA for international students.
- Best OPT health insurance for international students on OPT status.
What Are the Payment Options for International Students?
International students in the US come from different countries, with diverse economic backgrounds and face different financial needs. At American Visitor Insurance we offer health insurance for international students with flexible payment structures designed to make it more affordable and convenient, whether they are in the US for a semester or for an entire program spanning many semesters.
International Student Insurance Payment Options in the U.S.- Student insurance payment options vary based on the insurance provider and the length of coverage selected.
- Most international student health insurance plans offer monthly or annual payment options. Students who prefer flexible payments can learn more about Student Insurance Monthly
- Insurance plans can be purchased online for faster approval or submitted through a paper application for students who prefer offline enrollment or require assistance.
- Monthly payment options may require continuous enrollment and automatic billing, while annual payments are usually made as a one-time payment.
- Students should confirm approved payment methods (credit card, debit card, or other options) with their university’s international student or billing office.
- Choosing the right payment option helps international students select a plan that is cost-effective, reliable, and suitable for their location and healthcare needs.
| Payment Period | Highlights | Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Monthly payments, with recurring installments | Flexible with small installments | Overall higher total cost, and time consuming. Student must remember to pay on time to keep student medical insurance active. |
| Yearly | Pay the full premium up front (for entire policy period, usually one year) | Cheaper than monthly payments, no risk of losing coverage by oversight | Larger upfront cost |
Application Methods: Online vs Paper
| Method | Description | Speed | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Application | Complete online application and payment on American Visitor Insurance | Fast, policy issued instantly | Most common and use credit card |
| Paper Application | Complete paper forms and submit documents by post | Slower, takes a few days to process | Can pay by check |
How can international students apply for insurance without online payment or a credit card?
For international students who are unable to complete an online purchase, some student medical insurance plans offer a paper application option. This offline method is ideal for applicants who do not have access to international credit cards, online banking, or U.S.-based payment methods.
American Visitor Insurance assists international students with both paper applications and online insurance purchases. Students can apply without online payment by submitting required documents manually through a paper application, or they may complete enrollment online with step-by-step guidance from experienced representatives. Applications can also be coordinated through schools, sponsors, or program coordinators when needed.
With flexible payment options and multiple enrollment methods, American Visitor Insurance supports international students applying from outside the United States and those seeking a simple, reliable, non-digital, or assisted way to purchase student medical insurance.
What Are the F-1 Visa Health Insurance Requirements?
If you’re an international student planning to study in the USA on an F1 visa, having the right health insurance is essential. Most of the universities typically require F1 students to have health insurance coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and often mental health or maternity care. To make sure you meet both university and visa requirements, explore our comprehensive guide on best F1 visa health insurance requirements in USA.
What Are the Benefits of OPT insurance?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 international students to gain valuable work experience in the United States after completing their studies. Key benefits of OPT include:
- Up to 12 months of work authorization in your field of study, with an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension for eligible STEM graduates.
- Hands-on professional experience that strengthens your resume and improves future career opportunities.
- The opportunity to build industry skills, expand your professional network, and gain U.S. work experience.
- A pathway to long-term employment, with many students transitioning to employer-sponsored visas such as the H-1B.
While OPT offers significant career advantages, it does not include health insurance coverage. In many cases, your university-sponsored student health insurance ends after graduation. Purchasing health insurance for opt students ensures you remain protected against unexpected medical expenses during your OPT or STEM OPT period, helping you access quality healthcare while working in the United States.
What Is the Best Insurance for International Student Athletes?
There are quite a few US health insurance for students that cover sports activities. It is hard to pick one plan as the best plan. There might be slight differences in the kind of sports activities that they cover. On American Visitor Insurance we offer the best sports health insurance plans for international students.
Diplomat America & Diplomat LongTerm
- school Designed for international students participating in intercollegiate sports.
- add_box Students can choose a specific sports rider (low, medium, or high) depending on the sport to be covered.
- warning Maximum benefit payout is limited to $20,000 for any covered injury or illness resulting from the sports activity.
- sync Diplomat LongTerm Insuranceplan can be extended and offers worldwide coverage, with a minimum purchase period of 90 days.
- sync_disabled Diplomat Americaplan cannot be extended or renewed.
Sports rider options & coverage levels
| Coverage Level | Add-on Cost | Sports Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Low Option | $12.00 | Ballet, Baseball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Diving, Equestrian, Fencing, Field Hockey, Golf, Horse Polo, Water Polo, Rowing, Softball, Surfing, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball |
| Middle Option | $26.00 | Basketball, Competitive Cycling (Road, Track, CX), Ice Hockey, Inline Skating (with helmet/proper gear), Lacrosse, Martial Arts/Karate, Modern Pentathlon, Skiing (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Downhill), Ski Jumping, Wrestling |
| High Option | $80.00 | Football (No Division I), Gymnastics, Rugby (No Division I), Soccer |
Patriot Exchange Insurance
- school More affordable student insurance plan than Diplomat America and covers high school sports teams.
- shield Patriot Exchange insurance cost starts at $73 per month for a young adult without the rider, and it covers up to $250,000 with a $100 deductible.
- block It does not include coverage for varsity sports regulated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) nor the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
- sports_baseball Varsity sports are only covered when the “Add-on” Rider is selected not the Adventure Sports Rider.
Student Health Advantage Insurance
- sports_baseball BothStudent Secure Elite and Student Secure Select plans provide coverage for organized sports including intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural, and club sports. Covers medical expenses related to sports injuries, up to $5,000 per injury or illness.
- paid All four levels of the Student Secure plans (Smart, Budget, Select, and Elite) offer coverage for leisure, recreational, entertainment and fitness activities, with benefits available up to the plan’s overall maximum limit, depending on the selected level.
Student Secure Insurance
- sports_baseball Both Student Secure Elite and Student Secure Select cover intercollegiate, interscholastic, intramural, and club sports — up to $5,000 per injury or illness.
- done_all All four levels — Smart, Budget, Select, and Elite — cover leisure, recreational, entertainment, and fitness activities up to the plan's overall maximum limit.
OPT Student insurance, Health insurance for F1 OPT students FAQs
Our cheap health insurance for OPT students quote comparison facility lists the opt student health insurance plans that satisfy your requirements comparing them based on price and benefit. Compare health insurance for OPT students on American Visitor Insurance to get free OPT medical insurance quotes and find the best f1 opt insurance online.
- International Students with the F1 visa are eligible to get internship on a work permit for 36 months for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) students and 12 months for non STEM students.
- Since these students are no longer taking courses in the university, they are not eligible for student insurance.
- International students cannot buy domestic insurance plans as they are not US citizens or US permanent residents (Green card holders).
- We offer insurance plans for OPT students which are both affordable and comprehensive in their coverage.
Patriot Exchange Program, Atlas America offer a great balance of affordable premiums and comprehensive medical coverage. StudentSecure Smart is a budget-friendly option with a $0 deductible, while StudentSecure Select and Student Journey Platinum are ideal for students looking for higher policy maximums and enhanced benefits.
Compare OPT health insurance plans trough American Visitor Insurance based on your age, coverage dates, deductible, and policy maximum to find the best plan for your needs and get an instant online quote.
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Read More →Which Are The Best Insurance Companies For International Students In USA?
You can find reliable International student health insurance providers through American Visitor Insurance - including International Medical Group (IMG), WorldTrips and Global Underwriters. Compare our best-rated companies for student health coverage to find the plan that best fits your coverage needs and budget.
