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Best Medical Insurance Health Insurance for Canadian Students Studying in the USA

Canadian students who study in the United States encounter some of the highest medical expenses worldwide. Canadian citizens receive free healthcare through their public system, but provincial health insurance programs like OHIP and MSP and RAMQ provide minimal coverage for medical expenses which students incur while studying in the United States.

Most U.S. universities require international students on F-1 or J-1 visas to carry compliant health insurance, and many universities automatically register students in costly university-sponsored insurance programs which students must cancel through the submission of an approved waiver.

Canadian students who need health insurance can save thousands of dollars per year by selecting a private international student health insurance plan which meets university waiver requirements and provides essential medical benefits including medical treatment and mental health services and emergency evacuation services and maternity coverage and OPT coverage..

This page explains the best health insurance options for Canadian students studying in USA, how to meet university waiver requirements, and how to choose a plan that fits your budget and visa status.

What Is the Cheapest Student Health Insurance for international students from Canada in USA?

The cheapest health insurance for Canadian students in USA is the Student Journey Lite Insurance from IMG

Other affordable student health insurance options include:

Student Journey Lite IMG

  • Ideal for : Individuals on J1, F1, and M1 visas.
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed from 30 days to 12 months.
  • The Student Journey Lite insurance cost starts at approximately $30 per month, offering coverage up to $150,000 with a $100 deductible. An annual payment option is available to students.

  • Policy maximum?
    $150,000

  • Deductible options?
    $100 per injury or illness

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 12 months

How Much Does International Student Health Insurance Cost in 2026?

Health insurance costs for international students in USA vary based on age, coverage limits, deductible level, and insurance provider. The monthly cost of international student insurance in the USA typically ranges from $30 to $124 per month.

The monthly cost of health insurance for international students USA varies based on the coverage level selected for students aged 20.

Plan Cost (Monthly) Max Coverage Deductible Pre-existing Best For
Student Journey Lite IMG $30 $150,000 $100 After 6 months Budget-friendly basic coverage
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips $32 $200,000 $0 Acute onset covered Zero deductible + acute onset coverage
Student Journey Plus IMG $48 $300,000 $500 After 6 months Higher coverage with affordable premium
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips $53 $500,000 $0 After 12 months Budget-friendly plan with higher coverage limits
Patriot Exchange Program IMG $56 $50,000 $250 After 12 months Short-term students & adventure sports
Diplomat America Global Underwriters $71 $50,000 $250 After 12 months Acute onset covered
Student Journey Platinum IMG $74 $500,000 $250 After 6 months Comprehensive coverage with higher limits
StudentSecure Select WorldTrips $106 $1,000,000 $0 After 6 months Maximum coverage & premium benefits
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG $124 $500,000 $250 After 12 months Comprehensive student health coverage

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

Important: WorldTrips StudentSecure Insurance is not available to individuals who are physically located in Canada at the time of purchase.

What Are the Best Health Insurance for International Students from Canada in USA?

The best health insurance for international students in the USA is Patriot Exchange Program plan by IMG, with prices starting at $56 per month.

Other top student health insurance for USA include Student Journey Platinum and Student Health Advantage plan from IMG.

Most Popular

Patriot Exchange Program

$56 / month

Age: 20 years · $938 / year

  • Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $5 per visit
  • Medical Evacuation: $50,000 policy maximum
  • Urgent Care Clinic: 90% In-Network Coverage / $50 Copay
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High Coverage

Student Journey Platinum

$74 / month

Age: 20 years · $888 / year

  • Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $25
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Unlimited
  • Urgent Care Clinic: 80% In-Network Coverage / $50 Copay
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Premium

Student Health Advantage

$128 / month

Age: 20 years · $1486 / year

  • Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $5 per visit
  • Medical Evacuation: Up to $500,000 lifetime maximum
  • Urgent Care Center: Included
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What Does International Student Insurance Cover?

What Factors Determine International Student Health Insurance Cost?

When choosing the best travel insurance for students studying abroad, understanding the factors that drive the cost is important.

1. Student’s Age

  • Younger students usually pay lower premiums.
  • The prices for best health insurance for f1 students in USA increase with age due to higher medical risk.

2. Duration of Coverage

  • Whether it's a short summer program or a full multi-year degree, longer coverage = higher cost.
  • Most student plans are priced monthly or daily, so your total cost scales with time.

3. Deductible Amount

  • A higher deductible reduces your monthly premium.
  • Lower deductible = better emergency coverage, but increased plan cost.

4. Type of Insurance Plan

  • Budget plans cover essentials only (emergency care, accidents).
  • Comprehensive plans include broader protection (checkups, mental health, maternity) — priced higher.

5. Visa or University Requirements

  • Some visas (like F-1 or J-1) or universities require a minimum coverage standard.
  • This can increase cost if your plan needs an upgrade to meet the requirements.

6. Optional Add-on Benefits

  • If the students need additional coverage for specific activities like adventure sports mental illness, preventive care services, home country would cost more.

7. Maximum F1 Student Insurance Coverage

  • Plans typically range from $50,000 to $500,000+.
  • Higher coverage = more protection, but also higher premiums.
  • The cost of F1 student health insurance is less for lower medical maximum and increases with higher medical maximum coverage.
  • Important to meet visa or university requirements.

For a detailed breakdown of these factors and tips on choosing the right plan, visit our guide on the factors for buying best student health insurance plan.

What Are The Steps To Buy Medical Insurance For F1 Students?

1 Check With Your University or College
Ask if they provide the best health insurance for international students in the USA and whether enrollment in their plan is mandatory.
2 Understand Your University’s Requirements
If your university offers a plan, determine whether you must purchase it or if you can choose an alternative plan that meets their standards.
3 Compare Alternative Plans
If alternatives are allowed, compare the most affordable and best-rated F1 student health insurance options on American Visitor Insurance.
4 Evaluate Coverage and Costs
Compare university-offered insurance with alternative plans, considering price, coverage benefits, deductibles, co-pays, and exclusions.
5 Include Dependents If Needed
If you have dependents, review options for F2 visa health insurance and J2 visa medical insurance to ensure everyone is covered.
6 Choose the Best Plan
Select the F1 student health insurance that fits your budget, meets your healthcare needs, and complies with university requirements.
7 Complete Enrollment
After purchasing your plan, keep all documents you receive by email, as they may be needed for enrollment verification at your university.

Which Is the Popular Health Insurance for International Students in USA 2026?

The following are some of the best international student health insurance plans in USA. If you want a side-by-side comparison of the most popular and highly rated options, explore our top 5 best health insurance plans for international students in the USA.

Patriot Exchange Program IMG

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
  • Pre-existing condition: Comprehensive plan with high medical maximum and pre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months of waiting period.
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months.
  • Patriot Exchange Program insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $56 per month ($675 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.

  • Policy maximum?
    $50,000 to $5,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0 to $500

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

Student Journey Platinum IMG

  • Ideal for : J1, F1, A1 and M1 visas, Adventure Sports, Maternity
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 6 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 40 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to 30 days max
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.
  • Student Journey Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $74 per month ($888 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.

  • Policy maximum?
    $500,000

  • Deductible options?
    $250

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 12 months

StudentSecure Select Worldtrips

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
  • Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
  • Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 30 visits, Inpatient: Max 30 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
  • Student Secure Select insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $106 per month ($1248 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.

  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Standard IMG

  • Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
  • Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from 118 per month ($1,416 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available. Offers high policy maximum and good coverage for various medical emergencies.

  • Policy maximum?
    $500,000

  • Deductible options?
    $250

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

StudentSecure Elite Worldtrips

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
  • Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
  • Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 40 visits, Inpatient: Max 40 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
  • Student Secure Elite insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $181 per month ($2135 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.

  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Platinum IMG

  • Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports, Maternity
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
  • Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $353 per month ($4,236 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.

  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $100

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

How International Student Insurance Works?

  1. You purchase a student insurance plan online
  2. Visit a doctor or hospital (preferably in-network)
  3. Pay the deductible (if applicable)
  4. The insurance pays eligible expenses as per policy terms
  5. Claims are processed directly or reimbursed

At American Visitor Insurance, we provide a detailed guide explaining how international student health insurance works, including how benefits are applied and how medical bills are processed, so you can confidently choose the right student medical insurance plan for your university requirements.

A Working Example of Using Patriot Exchange Program Insurance

Below is a sample scenario to help students understand how Patriot Exchange insurance works in practice while studying abroad.

In this example:

  • Medical Bill: $25,100
  • Deductible: $100
  • Selected Policy Maximum: $50,000

Coverage Overview

Item Details
Insurance Coverage Up to $50,000
Deductible $100 per certificate period
Medical Expenses (Claimed) $25,100

How the Claim Is Settled

After the insured pays the $100 deductible, the Patriot Exchange plan applies its standard cost-sharing structure:

  • The plan pays 80% of the first $5,000 of eligible medical expenses.
  • Then it pays 100% thereafter up to the policy maximum.

Since the total medical bill is $25,100, the insured is responsible for 20% of the first $5,000, which equals $1,000.

All remaining eligible charges are paid by the insurance company. Because the policy maximum is $50,000, the full claim amount fits within the allowed limit.

Final Calculation

Expense Type Amount Billed Amount Insurance Pays Amount Student Pays
Deductible $100 $0 $100
Hospital Room Rent $9,000 $8,000 $1,000 (20% of first $5k)
Surgery $15,000 $15,000 $0
X-ray & Diagnostics $1,000 $1,000 $0
Total $25,100 $24,000 $1,100 (Deductible $100 + Coinsurance $1,000)

Summary for Students

In this example, the student pays a total of $1,100 ($100 deductible + $1,000 coinsurance), and Patriot Exchange covers the remaining $24,000. This demonstrates how the plan protects students from major medical expenses while studying abroad.

Disclaimer

We have made every effort to ensure the information above is accurate and current. However, policy terms, benefits, and limits may change periodically. Please refer to the official Patriot Exchange policy brochure for exact details.

Can I Buy Any Insurance Plan If My University Doesn’t Have Restrictions?

Yes. If your university does not require enrollment in a specific student health insurance plan or does not impose minimum coverage requirements, you are generally free to choose the insurance plan that best fits your needs and budget.

You can select either a student insurance plan or a travel medical insurance plan depending on what coverage you prefer.

Cheapest Student Insurance Plans (Recommended for F1 Students)

  • Student Journey Lite – Budget-friendly student insurance for international students studying in the USA. The Student Journey Lite insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $30 per month ($360 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.
  • StudentSecure Smart – Comprehensive international student insurance plan with benefits such as mental health coverage, pre-existing condition protection, and medical evacuation. The StudentSecure Smart insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $32 per month ($372 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.

Alternative Student Health Insurance Options

If you prefer private or non-university health insurance plan instead of student-specific plans, you can consider these popular options:

  • Patriot America Lite – Emergency medical insurance for international students studying in the USA. The Patriot America Lite insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $44 per month ($513 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.
  • Atlas America – Comprehensive travel medical insurance for students and visitors traveling to the USA. The Atlas America insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $50 per month ($590 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.

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 health insurance for F1 students that include 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 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 buying student health 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 Options for International Student Health Insurance

When buying international student health insurance in USA, students can usually choose between monthly or yearly payment plans. Selecting the right payment option depends on your budget, stay duration, and convenience.

Payment Period Highlights Advantage Disadvantage
Monthly Student Insurance Plan Monthly payments with recurring installments for student medical insurance coverage 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 International Student Insurance Plan 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

How to Apply for International Student Insurance (Online vs Paper)?

There are two simple ways to apply for student health insurance for F1 students and international students in the USA.

Method Description Speed Highlight
Online Application Complete your international student insurance application online and make secure payment through American Visitor Insurance Fast — Policy issued instantly Most common and use Credit card
Paper Application Submit printed forms and documents manually for student medical insurance plans Slower — Takes time (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 international 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 F1 students, OPT students, and international students buying health insurance from outside the United States, making it simple to secure reliable student medical insurance coverage before arriving on campus.

What Is the Best Insurance for International Student Athletes?

The best insurance for international student athletes in the USA depends on the type of sport, level of participation, and university requirements. There are several U.S. student health insurance plans that cover sports activities, but coverage details, limits, and eligibility can vary by plan.

Because sports coverage differs by sport intensity and risk level, there is no single “best” plan for every student athlete. Instead, students should choose a plan that offers the appropriate sports rider and meets school, visa, and athletic program requirements.

At American Visitor Insurance, we offer a range of sports health insurance plans for international students designed for recreational, intercollegiate, and competitive sports participation.

Top Sports Insurance Plans for International Students

Diplomat America & Diplomat LongTerm Insurance (Global Underwriters)

Best for: International students participating in intercollegiate sports
  • Designed specifically for student athletes
  • Allows students to select a sports rider based on risk level: Low, Medium, or High
  • Maximum benefit payout: $20,000 per covered sports-related injury or illness
Diplomat LongTerm Insurance
  • Can be extended
  • Offers worldwide coverage
  • Minimum purchase period: 90 days
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Diplomat America
  • Cannot be extended or renewed
  • Offers coverage in the USA
  • Minimum purchase period: 15 days
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Sports Rider Options – Diplomat Insurance

Coverage level Monthly Add-On Cost Sports covered
Low Option $12 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 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 and Wrestling
High Option $80 Football (No Division I), Gymnastics, Rugby (No Division I) and Soccer
👉 View Diplomat Insurance sports rider options and adventure sports travel insurance coverage.

Patriot Exchange Insurance (IMG)

Best for: Budget-conscious students and high school sports teams
  • More affordable student insurance compared to Diplomat plans
  • Patriot Exchange insurance cost starts at $73 per month (young adult, without rider)
  • Coverage up to $250,000 with a $100 deductible
  • Does NOT cover varsity sports regulated by:
    • National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
    • National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
  • Varsity sports coverage is available only with the Add-on Rider (not the Adventure Sports Rider)
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Student Secure Insurance (WorldTrips)

Best for: Flexible sports and recreational activity coverage
  • Student Secure Select and Elite plans cover:
    • Intercollegiate sports
    • Interscholastic sports
    • Intramural sports
    • Club sports
  • Covers sports-related medical expenses up to $5,000 per injury or illness
  • All four plan levels (Smart, Budget, Select, Elite) include coverage for:
    • Leisure activities
    • Recreational sports
    • Fitness and entertainment activities
  • Benefits are available up to the plan’s overall maximum, depending on the selected plan level
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Group travel insurance

Student Sports Group Travel Insurance

Best health insurance for international student Athletes.

Get your group insurance quote »

What Are the Best International Health Insurance Options for Students?

Student insurance USA

Why Choose American Visitor Insurance for Student Health Insurance?

Choosing American Visitor Insurance for your F1 student health insurance or international travel insurance needs comes with several key benefits:

  • Wide Choice of Plans: American Visitor Insurance offers top-rated health insurance options for F1 visa holders, OPT students, J1 visa holders, and visitors, with coverage from reputed insurers such as IMG and WorldTrips
  • Affordable Pricing: The platform provides budget-friendly plans with customizable deductibles, maximum coverage limits, and optional add-ons. These are often more economical than many university-sponsored plans while still meeting insurance requirements.
  • Easy Online Comparison & Purchase: American Visitor Insurance allows you to compare student insurance and buy online with a easy secure online purchase process which then provides instant confirmation.
  • Expert Guidance & Support: Licensed insurance agents provide free support to help you choose the right plan and understand university waiver requirements and policy details.
  • Covers Unique Needs: Specialized plans are available for students on OPT, mental health coverage, maternity, sports injuries, and more, with flexible coverage start dates either from your home country or upon arrival in the U.S.
  • Reputable Platform with Years of Experience: Trusted by thousands of international students and visitors, American Visitor Insurance has a strong track record of customer satisfaction and reliable service.

How to Buy the Best International Student Insurance in USA?

Choosing the right US health insurance for international students is essential to stay protected from high healthcare costs in the United States while also meeting your university’s insurance requirements. Here’s how to choose the best student health insurance plan:

  • Check university insurance requirements
    Many U.S. universities require students to enroll in their own health plans unless proof of comparable coverage is provided. Before buying, review the university’s waiver form for criteria such as minimum policy maximum (e.g., $100,000 or more), deductible limits (e.g., under $500), and required coverage for mental health, maternity, and pre-existing conditions.
  • Compare coverage options
    Look for plans that offer comprehensive medical coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, and prescriptions; emergency services such as ambulance, evacuation, and repatriation; mental health and maternity care as required by the school; and COVID-19 coverage if still mandated.
  • Check premium and deductible
    Lower premiums may lead to higher out-of-pocket costs, so balance monthly affordability with deductibles and co-insurance amounts you’re comfortable with.
  • Provider reputation & network
    Choose plans from trusted companies like IMG and WorldTrips available on American Visitor Insurance. Make sure they offer easy online claims and access to large hospital networks in the U.S.
  • Additional benefits
    Some plans include extra perks like coverage during Optional Practical Training (OPT), free telemedicine, and discounts on prescriptions.

How International Student Health Insurance Works?

Before buying student insurance coverage, it’s important to understand how your policy actually works. Many international students are unsure about deductibles, copays, provider networks, and pre-existing condition coverage. Whether you need international student health insurance in the USA or coverage that meets F1 visa requirements, understanding the basics helps you avoid unexpected medical expenses.

At American Visitor Insurance, we provide a detailed guide explaining how international student health insurance works, including how benefits are applied and how medical bills are processed, so you can confidently choose the right student medical insurance plan for your university requirements.

Why Should Canadian Students Compare Health Insurance?

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 Canadian students requirements and to get sufficient coverage from the health insurance plan for students from Canada, it is important to compare different features available in the best health insurance for Canadian students in USA:
The following are important factors for comparing cheapest health insurance for Canadian students 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.

Can Canadian Students Waive School Health Insurance by Buying a Private Plan?

Yes. Canadian students studying in the USA may be able to waive their university’s health insurance plan if they purchase a private international student health insurance policy that meets the school’s waiver requirements.

University waiver compliance allows students to choose an out of campus insurance by showing proof of equivalent international student health insurance. The private plan must usually offer these coverages:

  • A policy maximum of $100,000 or more
  • A deductible of $500 or less
  • Inpatient and outpatient mental health coverage
  • Coverage for maternity and pre-existing conditions (as required by the school)
  • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Access to a PPO network of U.S. healthcare providers

Universities provide a waiver form outlining the minimum required benefits. Submit this form along with your insurance proof by the school’s deadline.

⚠️ Important: Waiver requirements vary by university. Always review your school’s insurance guidelines before purchasing a private student health insurance plan.

Student insurance for US from Canada FAQ's

1. Do you offer student insurance even if I am not taking any courses on campus?

Yes, we do have student insurance plans for international students on a valid student visa, who are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and are currently not taking any courses on campus.

2. Is Medicare available as health insurance for canadian students studying in the US?

No. International students are not eligible for US Medicare benefits.Medicare is a United States government program available only to US citizens or US permanent residents who have paid into the US tax system.

3. What is international student health insurance for studying in the USA?

International student health insurance is health insurance for individuals who are studying outside their home country. Most US domestic health insurance plans do not cover a person 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.

4. What health insurance can Canadian students purchase?

International students cannot apply to 'regular' health care plans available to citizens.However, we have options for you through our website.

Note that if you do get the option of an institutional health plan these will likely be more expensive than what we offer, but they are very complete.They are, in fact, domestic policies not otherwise available to visitors.They are very complete and cover wellness, pre-existing conditions, maternity, mental health, and pretty much all health care needs.

If those are not main concerns and if you are looking for more economical options, there are plans for international students available.

5. What plans do you recommend for Canadian students and why?

Canadians that wish to study in the US can get health insurance through our website.The best options are those offered by IMG and Global Underwriters

The Global Underwriter plans are best if the student is on an official sports team or club.You can choose an optional collegiate sports rider to cover injuries related to that sport (low, medium, and high; unfortunately there is no coverage for football).

IMG has several student options available (Patriot Exchange,Student Health Advantage and Student Health Advantage Platinum).Patriot Exchange offers a very economical price, but note the exclusion of maternity and mental health coverage.

Student plans must be purchased for whole months.If you purchase one month and three days you will pay for two months.Therefore, you may as well sign up for two whole months.When the student returns home, the plans are terminated.

6. Do international students have health insurance in USA? Is student travel insurance Canada required?

Yes, in fact many international students studying in the United States are required to have student travel insurance USA coverage to satisfy University needs. The specific requirements for best health insurance for international students varies depending on the educational institution, state regulations, and the type of visa the student holds.

Some key points to consider:

  • University/College Requirements: Most US universities and colleges have specific health insurance requirements for international students. Universities may mandate that all enrolled international students purchase and maintain a specific health insurance plan that meets certain criteria. Student insurance plans offered on American Visitor Insurance are comparable to University insurance plans but are cheaper and with similar benefits.
  • Visa Requirements: The US government also has specific health insurance requirements for certain visa types. For example, J-1 and J-2 visa holders (Exchange Scholars) are generally required to have health insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by the United States Department of State.
  • Coverage and Benefits: The required student health insurance plans typically need to provide a minimum level of coverage for medical services, hospitalization, emergency care, and repatriation of remains, among other benefits.
  • Waivers: International students who buy student insurance on American Visitor Insurance and have comparable health insurance coverage may apply for a waiver to the university's insurance requirement. Usually, the existing coverage must meet or exceed the university's specified criteria.

At American Visitor Insurance we offer the best health insurance for international student in USA plans from top rated insurance providers.

7. Which insurance is best health insurance for Canadians students in USA?

The "best" USA student health insurance for students from Canada varies depending on Students’ needs, preferences, and budget. Different factors should be considered when choosing the most suitable medical insurance for students, such as coverage, cost, benefits, network of healthcare providers, and the specific requirements of your educational institution. Here are some options to consider:

Best health insurance for international students on American Visitor Insurance: American Visitor Insurance specializes in providing health insurance for Canadians students studying in USA. These plans may offer a range of options and coverage levels, and some may be accepted by various educational institutions. Student insurance plans offered on American Visitor Insurance are comparable to University insurance plans but are cheaper and with similar benefits.

When comparing student health insurance plans, consider the following factors:

  • Coverage: Look for plans that provide comprehensive coverage for medical services, hospitalization, emergency care, prescription drugs, and preventive care.
  • Network of health care providers (PPO Network): Check if the plan has a network of healthcare providers and hospitals near your university or college to ensure easy access to medical services.
  • Cost: Compare premiums, deductibles, co-payments, co-insurance , and any additional fees to find a plan that fits your budget. Coverage benefits: Evaluate the additional benefits provided by the plan, such as mental health coverage, maternity coverage, and coverage for pre-existing conditions.
  • Customer Service: Consider the customer service reputation of the insurance provider and customer testimonials to ensure a smooth experience when dealing with claims and inquiries.
  • Policy Duration: Make sure the student medical insurance plan's coverage duration aligns with your academic program's duration, including any optional practical training (OPT) periods.

Before buying the best student insurance on American Visitor Insurance, it is essential to compare student medical insurance plans and read the policy details and terms carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us or call us at 877-340-7910.

Finally, the best health insurance for international students is one that provides adequate coverage and aligns with their specific needs, budget and circumstances of the student.

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Best Health Insurance for International Students in USA

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Best health insurance for international students in Canada

Is it too late to buy student travel insurance for Canada?

It's never too late to buy student travel insurance for Canada.The only time it is too late is if a person is already sick or injured.As long as the student is healthy, you can purchase a Canada student travel insurance to have coverage for future accident or illness. Compare and buy the best student travel insurance for Canada.

How Much Does Health Insurance for US Students Abroad Cost in 2026?

The US student abroad cost ranges from $26 to $289 per month. The price depends on the factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance.

The best student health insurance abroad cost per month for an international student aged 20 years.

Insurance Plans Policy maximum Deductible Cost
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
Study Abroad Student Insurance BCBS Unlimited Coverage $0 $289

Source:American Visitor Insurance®

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U.S. Student Trip Cancellation Insurance

Student travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is also called trip cancellation insurance or trip interruption insurance and offers coverage to protect students against financial losses in case they need to cancel or interrupt their travel plans for covered reasons. Student trip cancellation insurance is useful for US students who are studying outside the USA or participate in international educational trips. This Student trip cancellation insurance helps reimburse non-refundable expenses incurred for the trip, such as airfare, accommodations, and other prepaid costs.
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US student trip cancellation Insurance