IMG Student Journey Lite Insurance
The cheapest international student health insurance in the USA for F1, J1, and M1 visa holders. Covers hospital, ER, surgery, telehealth, and pre-existing conditions after 6 months.
What is Student Journey Lite Health Insurance?
Student Journey Lite is IMG's budget student insurance plan designed for international students studying in the United States on F1, J1, or M1 visas. It's designed to help satisfy visa and university insurance requirements while keeping monthly costs affordable providing coverage for the accidents, illnesses, and medical emergencies that are most likely to occur during your studies without paying for benefits that many healthy students rarely use.
The plan uses the UnitedHealthcare Options PPO network, one of the largest provider networks in the country, giving students access to healthcare providers nationwide. Student Journey Lite keeps premiums low through a modest deductible, a six-month waiting period before pre-existing conditions become eligible for coverage, and by excluding benefits such as maternity and long-term chronic care management that most students typically do not need during their first year of study in the USA.
Note for New York and Washington residents: Benefit limits and maximums under Student Journey Lite may vary for residents of New York (NY) and Washington (WA) due to state-specific insurance regulations. Your exact Certificate of Insurance will reflect any state-specific adjustments - confirm your state's terms before purchasing if you reside in NY or WA.
Who Is Student Journey Lite Best Suited For?
Budget-conscious students who need visa- and university-compliant coverage without paying for extras they won't use.
Coverage starts as soon as 30 days from purchase and can be extended up to 12 months.
Spouses (F2/J2/M2) and children can be added to the same policy.
Students with chronic pre-existing conditions needing immediate coverage, those who need maternity coverage from day one, or students at universities that mandate higher limits or a $0 deductible plan (consider Student Journey Plus or Student Journey Platinum instead)
What Students Actually Need to Check First?
Not every "cheap student insurance" plan checks these boxes. Here's how Student Journey Lite stacks up against what actually matters.
Why Buy Student Journey Lite Insurance?
Student Journey Lite is an affordable student health insurance plan engineered for international students who want essential protection without paying for benefits they don't need. It provides low-cost student medical coverage while still meeting the insurance benchmarks most U.S. universities and visa categories require.
- check_circleF1, J1, and M1 visa-compliant meets most university insurance mandates and U.S. Department of State J1 exchange visitor requirements.
- check_circle$150,000 per illness or injury, up to a $400,000 policy maximum - well above the $100,000 minimum required for J1 visa holders.
- check_circlePre-existing conditions covered after a 6-month waiting period a benefit many budget plans skip entirely.
- check_circleUnitedHealthcare PPO network access, over 1.4 million physicians, 6,797 hospitals, and 67,000 pharmacies nationwide.
- check_circleCoverage from 30 days up to 12 months extendable to spouses and children.
- check_circleOptional Adventure Sports Rider for students who want coverage for skydiving, whitewater rafting, and similar activities.
Student Journey Lite is consistently ranked among the cheapest health insurance options for international students in the USA, making it a go-to choice for students searching for cheap student insurance that still satisfies visa and school requirements.
Who Can Buy Student Journey Lite Insurance?
Hold an F1/F2, J1/J2, M1/M2, or A1/A2 visa, as the primary participant, spouse, or accompanying child.
At least 31 days old, and not yet 65 years old at the time of application.
Physically and legally present in the U.S. with the intent to stay at least 30 days, both at effective date and renewal.
Not hospitalized, disabled, pregnant, or HIV+ on the date your coverage is set to begin.
- You're a healthy F1, J1, or M1 student enrolling for the first time or renewing standard coverage.
- Your university accepts outside/private insurance plans (confirm with your international student office).
- You want the lowest visa-compliant premium and are comfortable with essential-only benefits.
- You are already hospitalized, pregnant, or have a disability as of your intended effective date.
- You are 65 or older - look at IMG's senior-specific travel plans instead.
- Your university requires a $0 deductible or higher coverage limits than this plan offers.
Can Student Journey Lite Be Extended or Renewed?
Student Journey Lite can be purchased for a minimum of 30 days up to a maximum of 12 continuous months. Coverage can be extended (reapplied for) as long as the premium is paid on time and the student continues to meet eligibility requirements. Students who need protection beyond 12 months, or who want indefinite renewability, should compare Patriot Exchange or Student Health Advantage
Renew Now →
What Are the Restrictions of Student Journey Lite Insurance?
Student Journey Lite does not provide coverage for residents of, or travelers visiting, Belarus, Russia, or Ukraine. Contact our team if you need guidance on alternative coverage for these regions.
How Much Does Student Journey Lite Insurance Cost?
The Student Journey Lite cost per month ranges between $30 to $96, depending on:
- Age of the student - older applicants pay higher premiums
- Selected policy maximum - $150,000 per illness/injury is standard for Lite
- Deductible amount - Lite carries a fixed $100 deductible
Note: For senior travelers aged 80 to 99, the cost is $143, with a maximum coverage of $10,000 and a deductible of $100.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Student Journey Lite Insurance
Advantages
7 benefitsAmong the cheapest international student health insurance plans available, starting at $30/month
Meets F1, J1, and M1 visa insurance requirements and most university mandates
Low $100 deductible compared to Plus ($500) and higher-tier plans
100% eligible medical expense coverage on core benefits like physician visits, telehealth, urgent care, and walk-in clinics
Access to the extensive UnitedHealthcare PPO network
Pre-existing conditions covered after 6 months - not offered by all budget student plans
Coverage can be extended to spouses and children
Disadvantages
5 limitsLower per-illness maximum ($150,000) than Plus ($300,000) or Platinum ($500,000)
6-month waiting period before pre-existing conditions are covered
Not available to students already pregnant or hospitalized at the time of purchase
May not meet some universities' stricter minimum coverage or $0-deductible requirements - check with your school first
Maximum policy period is 12 months per application (must reapply, not auto-renew, beyond that)
No coverage for residents of, or travelers visiting, Belarus, Russia, or Ukraine. Contact our team if you need guidance on alternative coverage for these regions.
What Are the Optional Benefits of Student Journey Lite Insurance?
Available at the time of application for students up to age 65.
Activities covered (lifetime maximum applies): Abseiling, BMX, bobsledding, bungee jumping, canyoning, caving, hot air ballooning, jungle zip lining, parachuting, paragliding, parascending, rappelling, skydiving, spelunking, whitewater kayaking or whitewater rafting in water less than Class V difficulty, wildlife safaris, and windsurfing.
Each and every activities are carried out in strict adherence with the instruction, best practices, and recommendations for safe practices as prescribed by a Governing Body or Authority
| Age | Maximum Limit |
|---|---|
| 0–49 years | $50,000 per injury or illness |
| 50–59 years | $30,000 per injury or illness |
| 60–64 years | $15,000 per injury or illness |
What Are the Benefits of Student Journey Lite Student Insurance?
| Eligible Medical Expenses | 100% |
| Hospital room and board | $1,000 per day, 30 days max |
| Surgeon | $3,000 max |
| Intensive Care | $1,525 per day, 8 days max |
| Hospital Emergency Room | Up to 80%. $350 illness deductible if not admitted |
| Outpatient Diagnostic Laboratory / X-ray | $500 per examinaiton + additional $350 if Cat scan, PET scan, or MRI |
| Outpatient Diagnositc Radiology | $500 per examinaiton + additional $350 if Cat scan, PET scan, or MRI |
| Anesthesia | 100% |
| Chiropractic | Included (medical order or treatment plan required) |
| Physical Therapy | Outpatient $35 per visit, 1 visit per day, 12 visit max |
| Physician Visits | $50 per visit, 1 visit per day, 30 days max |
| Urgent Care Clinic | 100% |
| Walk-In Clinic | 100% |
| Chemotherapy / Radiation Therapy | $1,000 max Inpatient and Outpatient combined |
| Assistant Surgeon | 25% of Surgeon's payable benefit (20% of primary surgeon’s eligible fee) |
| Mental/Nervous | Outpatient: 80% up to 40 visits or $5,000 max per policy period Inpatient: 80% up to 30 days max |
| Prescription Drugs and Medication | $100 per prescription 30 days dispensing maixmum per prescription |
| Pre-Admission Testing | $900 max |
| Traumatic Dental Injur | 100% Rendered at a hospital facility due to a covered accidental injury and subject to the sublimits, deductible, coinsurance and copayment amounts listed in the benefit summary. |
| Dental Treatment | $500 max (unexpected pain or non-emergent accidents only) |
| Scheduled Outpatient or Day Surgery | $1,000 max |
| Durable Medical Equipment | $1,000 max |
| Hospital Miscellaneous Expenses (operating room, lab tests, x-ray, rx, therapeutic services, supplies) | $500 per day, 30 days max |
| Maternity | $5,000 normal delivery $7,500 for c-section delivery |
| Newborn Care | $500 maximum |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Up to $60,000 |
| Repatriation for Medical Treatment | $25,000 |
| Return of Mortal Remains or Cremation/Burial | $50,000 Local Burial / Cremation at place of death Maximum Limit: $5,000 |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Up to $60,000 |
| Emergency local ambulance | Up to $400 |
| Interfacility Ambulance Transfer | $400 | Accidental death & dismemberment | Principal Sum Maximum: $10,000 |
| Acute Onset of Pre-Existing* | After 6 months of waiting period | |
Is Student Journey Lite right for you?
- A healthy F1, J1, or M1 student who mainly needs protection against the unexpected
- Looking for the lowest premium that still meets your visa requirement
- Comfortable with a $100 deductible and essential-only benefits
- Not currently pregnant or managing a chronic condition needing ongoing treatment
- Need maternity coverage or are planning to become pregnant
- Have a pre-existing or chronic condition needing frequent, ongoing treatment
- Need more extensive mental health or prescription drug coverage
- Attend a university with stricter minimums (higher coverage limits, low/zero deductible)
Compare All Student Journey Plans Side by Side
Lite covers the basics at the lowest price. If you need more protection, here's exactly what you gain by upgrading to Plus or Platinum.
| Feature | Student Journey Lite | Student Journey Plus | Student Journey Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Healthy students, lowest cost | Students wanting broader everyday coverage | Students wanting the highest limits & lowest deductible options |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered after 6 months | Covered after 6 months | Covered after 6 months |
| Deductible options | $100 only | $500 per period of coverage INN $750 OON |
$250 per period of coverage INN $400 OON |
| Student Health Center Deductible/Copay | $45 | $25 | $15 |
| Maternity coverage | $5,000 normal delivery $7,500 for c-section delivery |
80% INN / 60% OON | 80% INN / 60% OON |
| Cost per day | $1.00 | $1.50 | $2.15 |
| Monthly cost | From $30 | From $48 | From $74 |
| Explore Plan | View Plan » | View Plan » | View Plan » |
| Get Started | shopping_cart Buy Now | shopping_cart Buy Now | shopping_cart Buy Now |
Ready to Protect Your Health While Studying in the USA?
Student Journey Lite Health Insurance from $30/month
What Is a PPO Network in Student Journey Lite Insurance?
A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) network is a group of doctors, hospitals, and clinics contracted to provide care at pre-negotiated, lower rates to insured students.
Student Journey Lite uses the UnitedHealthcare Options network, which is a longstanding reputable tier one network that gives you more access to more doctors and services. You can also enjoy access to quality healthcare worldwide with our proprietary IPA network that includes over 18,550 physicians and facilities.
Because UnitedHealthcare providers offer direct billing, you typically won't need to pay large sums upfront and wait for reimbursement — the provider bills IMG directly for in-network care.
If you purchase Student Journey Lite insurance from IMG with a United Healtcare logo on your insurance card, please state the following when informing your healthcare provider about your IMG travel insurance - "My healthcare coverage uses the United Healthcare travel health insurance network."
Lower out-of-pocket costs: Visiting an in-network provider means the provider bills IMG directly, reducing surprise bills for budget-conscious international students.
Global access: Outside the U.S. or when traveling, students also have access to IMG's proprietary IPA network of over 18,550 physicians and facilities worldwide.
Find a UHC Doctor »How Do I File a Claim With Student Journey Lite Insurance?
To file a claim with Student Journey Lite Insurance, follow these steps:
Student Journey Lite Insurance Cancellation and Refund Information?
Before the effective date (free look period): Most IMG plans, including Student Journey Lite, offer a short review window (typically within 3 days of purchase) during which you can cancel for a full premium refund if you're not satisfied with the coverage.
After the Effective Date (After 3 Days): Cancellation is still possible, but the refund amount depends on whether any claims have been filed:
- If a claim has been filed, the premium is considered fully earned and no refund is issued.
- If no claim has been filed, the refund is calculated on a pro-rated basis for the unused portion of the coverage period, minus any applicable cancellation fee.
Refunds are typically processed within 7–14 business days. See our full cancellation policy for details.
How Does Student Journey Lite Insurance Work?
Your policy covers sudden illness, accidental injury, COVID-19 (treated as any other illness), and acute onset of pre-existing conditions after the 6-month waiting period. Routine checkups, elective procedures, and non-emergency dental/vision care are excluded.
Call IMG first for major events: 1-800-628-4664 - available 24/7 in multiple languages.
Show your IMG insurance ID card at a UnitedHealthcare PPO provider to minimize out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-network providers are allowed, but you pay upfront and file for reimbursement.
Hospital admission?: Pre-certification is required for non-emergency admissions - skipping it can cut your benefit by 50%.
Pay your $100 deductible, then Student Journey Lite pays according to its fixed benefit schedule (e.g., 100% on physician visits, telehealth, urgent care; 80% with a $350 illness deductible on unadmitted ER visits).
Submit your claim documents to IMG for reimbursement of covered expenses. Keep every receipt, itemized bill, and doctor's note.
IMG contact: Phone 1-800-628-4664 · Email [email protected] · Mail: PO Box 240429, Apple Valley, MN 55124, USA
Processing time: 10–30 business days after IMG receives all documents. Claim denied? You have 60 days to appeal.
IMG pays covered amounts by cheque or direct deposit in U.S. dollars. Your policy remains active until it expires or your $150,000 per-illness / $400,000 total maximum is reached.
IMG Student Journey Lite - FAQs
Why Buy Student Journey Lite Insurance Through American Visitor Insurance?
Easy Plan Comparison and Purchase: Compare Student Journey Lite, Plus, and Platinum side by side, review benefits and pricing, and complete your purchase securely online in minutes.
Helpful Resources for Better Decisions: We offer detailed FAQs, blog, and guides built from real student and parent questions to help you choose the right plan for your visa type and university.
Experienced Customer Support: Licensed support staff with 20+ years of experience in international student and visitor insurance, ready to answer questions about coverage, waivers, and claims.
Nationwide Support: Teams on both the East and West Coast of the U.S. across multiple time zones, available to help with applications and claims.
Licensed & Trusted Platform: American Visitor Insurance is a licensed US-based insurance platform (NJ License #1181604).