IMG Student Journey Platinum Insurance
The best international student health insurance for F1, J1, and M1 visa students who want the highest coverage limits and richest benefits in the Student Journey lineup - including maternity coverage and unlimited emergency medical evacuation.
What Is Student Journey Platinum International Student Health Insurance?
Student Journey Platinum is IMG's highest level of international student health insurance for students studying in the United States on F1, J1, and M1 visas. Designed for students who want the most comprehensive protection, it offers higher coverage limits and enhanced benefits compared to Student Journey Lite and Student Journey Plus.
With a $500,000 policy maximum, 80% in-network / 60% out-of-network coinsurance after the deductible, and low copays for routine medical care ($15 physician visits and $50 specialist visits), Student Journey Platinum helps reduce out-of-pocket healthcare costs while providing broad medical coverage.
The plan also includes valuable benefits such as maternity coverage, coverage for pre-existing conditions after a 6-month waiting period (subject to policy terms), unlimited emergency medical evacuation, and access to the UnitedHealthcare Options PPO network. Eligible dependents, including spouses and children, can also be covered under the plan.Student Journey Platinum is an excellent choice for students seeking the highest level of protection with minimal coverage gaps while studying in the USA.
Note for New York and Washington residents: Benefit limits and maximums under Student Journey Platinum 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 Platinum Best Suited For?
who want the highest available coverage limit and the broadest benefit set, and whose university or personal budget can support a higher premium than Lite or Plus.
Platinum covers maternity at $5,000 for normal delivery and $7,500 for a C-section, plus up to $500 for newborn care - a benefit not available at this level on Lite.
Students transitioning from full-time study to OPT work authorization often want maximum coverage while their status and income are in flux - OPT student health insurance needs typically favor a higher-limit plan like Platinum.
Since Platinum's limits comfortably clear the U.S. Department of State's minimum J1 insurance requirements with room to spare.
budget-conscious students who mainly want visa-compliant coverage at the lowest monthly cost - see Student Journey Lite for the cheapest option, or Student Journey Plus for a mid-tier balance of cost and coverage.
What Students Actually Need to Check First?
Not every plan marketed as "best international student health insurance" actually delivers on maternity, evacuation, and network access. Here's how Platinum stacks up against what actually matters.
Why Buy Student Journey Platinum Medical Insurance?
Student Journey Platinum is a comprehensive international student health insurance plan built for F1, J1, and M1 visa students who want the strongest coverage IMG offers under the Student Journey name - a genuine fit for students searching for the best international student health insurance USA has to offer.
- check_circleF1, J1, and M1 visa-compliant meets most university insurance mandates and U.S. Department of State J1 exchange visitor requirements, with substantial headroom above the minimums.
- check_circle$500,000 per illness or injury, the highest limit in the Student Journey lineup.
- check_circle80% in-network / 60% out-of-network coinsurance with low fixed copays ($15 physician, $50 specialist, $50 urgent care) for predictable routine costs.
- check_circleMaternity coverage included, $5,000 normal delivery / $7,500 C-section, plus $500 newborn care.
- check_circleUnlimited emergency medical evacuation and $50,000 repatriation for medical treatment.
- check_circleMental health coverage outpatient at $50 copay up to $150/session, inpatient at 80%/60% coinsurance.
- check_circlePre-existing conditions covered after a 6-month waiting period.
- check_circleUnitedHealthcare PPO network access across the U.S.
- check_circleCoverage from 30 days up to 12 months, extendable to F2/J2/M2 spouses and children.
- check_circleOptional Adventure Sports Rider available up to age 65.
Students who specifically searched for best insurance for F1 students, health insurance F1 visa, or best insurance for international students in USA are usually looking for exactly this tier - maximum protection rather than minimum cost.
Who Can Buy Student Journey Platinum Insurance?
You're a good fit for this F1 visa health insurance and J1 visa insurance plan if you meet all of the following:
Non-U.S. individual coming to the USA (or its territories) on an F1, J1, or M1 visa.
At least 31 days old, and not yet 65 years old at the time of application.
Spouse or child of a participant, residing outside their primary country of residence, can be added as covered dependents.
Physically and legally residing in the USA with the intent to reside there for at least 30 days from the effective date.
The U.S. Department of State requires J1 Exchange Visitor insurance to include at least $100,000 in medical benefits per accident/illness, $50,000 in medical evacuation, and $25,000 in repatriation of remains coverage. Student Journey Platinum provides $500,000 per illness/injury, unlimited medical evacuation, and $50,000 for repatriation - comfortably exceeding the government minimums.
Student Journey Platinum is not available for residents of Belarus, Russia, Iran, and Ukraine, and is not available for travel to those countries. Coverage is also secondary to any other applicable health insurance, and is not available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Can Student Journey Platinum Be Extended or Renewed?
Student Journey Platinum can be purchased for a minimum of 30 days up to a maximum of 12 continuous months. Coverage can be reapplied for - not automatically renewed - as long as the premium is paid on time and the student continues to meet eligibility requirements. Students who need protection beyond 12 months should compare Patriot Exchange or Student Health Advantage
Renew Now →
How Much Does Student Journey Platinum Insurance Cost?
The Student Journey Platinum cost per month ranges between $74 to $293, depending on:
- Age of the student - older applicants pay higher premiums
- Selected policy maximum - $500,000 is standard for Platinum
- Deductible amount - Platinum carries a fixed $250 deductible per injury or illness
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 Platinum Insurance
Advantages
8 benefitsHighest policy maximum in the Student Journey lineup - $500,000
Maternity coverage included ($5,000 normal / $7,500 C-section, $500 newborn)
Unlimited emergency medical evacuation, no per-incident cap
$50,000 repatriation for medical treatment
Low fixed copays for routine care: $15 physician visit, $50 specialist, $50 urgent care
Mental/nervous outpatient care at a modest $50 copay up to $150/session
Meets F1, J1, and M1 visa insurance requirements with significant headroom above minimums
Coverage extendable to F2/J2/M2 spouses and children
Disadvantages
5 limitsHighest monthly premium of the three Student Journey tiers ($74–$293 vs. Lite's $30–$96 and Plus's from $48)
6-month waiting period before pre-existing conditions are covered, same as Lite and Plus
Not available to students already pregnant or hospitalized at time of purchase
Not available to residents of, or travelers visiting, Belarus, Russia, Iran, or Ukraine
Maximum policy period is 12 months per application (must reapply, not auto-renew, beyond that)
What Are the Optional Benefits of Student Journey Platinum 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 Platinum Student Insurance?
| Eligible Medical Expenses | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Hospital room and board | $300 deductible per confinement |
| Surgeon | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Intensive Care | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Hospital Emergency Room | $350 deductible per confinementd |
| Outpatient Diagnostic Laboratory / X-ray | Laboratory / X-Ray: $30 copay per day including interpretation of results Radiology: $100 copay per day including interpretation of results |
| 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 | $15 copay Specialist $50 copay |
| Urgent Care Clinic | $50 copay 80% In-Network / 60% Out-of-Network |
| Walk-In Clinic | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Chemotherapy / Radiation Therapy | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Assistant Surgeon | 25% of Surgeon's payable benefit (20% of primary surgeon’s eligible fee) |
| Mental/Nervous | $50 copay up to $150 per sessio |
| Prescription Drugs and Medication | 70% out of network Dispensing maximum: 30 days per prescription |
| Pre-Admission Testing | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Traumatic Dental Injury | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Dental Treatment | $500 max (unexpected pain or non-emergent accidents only) |
| Scheduled Outpatient or Day Surgery | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Durable Medical Equipment | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Hospital Miscellaneous Expenses (operating room, lab tests, x-ray, rx, therapeutic services, supplies) | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Maternity | In-Network: 80% up to policy maximum Out-Network: 60% up to policy maximum |
| Newborn Care | $500 maximum |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Unlimited |
| Repatriation for Medical Treatment | $50,000 |
| Return of Mortal Remains or Cremation/Burial | Unlimited |
| Emergency local ambulance | 100% |
| Interfacility Ambulance Transfer | 100% | Accidental death & dismemberment | Principal Sum Maximum: $10,000 |
| Pre-Existing Condition | After 6 months of waiting period | |
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 Platinum | Student Journey Lite | Student Journey Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Students wanting the highest limits & lowest deductible options | Healthy students, lowest cost | Students wanting broader everyday coverage |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered after 6 months | Covered after 6 months | Covered after 6 months |
| Deductible options | $250 per period of coverage INN $400 OON |
$100 only | $500 per period of coverage INN $750 OON |
| Student Health Center Deductible/Copay | $15 | $25 | $45 |
| Maternity coverage | 80% INN / 60% OON | $5,000 normal delivery $7,500 for c-section delivery |
80% INN / 60% OON |
| Cost per day | $2.15 | $1.00 | $1.50 |
| Monthly cost | From $74 | From $30 | From $48 |
| Explore Plan | View Plan » | View Plan » | View Plan » |
| Get Started | shopping_cart Buy Now | shopping_cart Buy Now | shopping_cart Buy Now |
Ready for Premium Student Health Coverage in the USA?
Student Journey Platinum Health Insurance from $74/month
What Is a PPO Network in Student Journey Platinum 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.
Inside the U.S., IMG routes Student Journey Platinum members through the UnitedHealthcare Options PPO network — a tier-one network that gives students access to more doctors, clinics, and hospitals nationwide, generally at a lower cost than going out-of-network.
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 Platinum 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 Platinum Insurance?
To file a claim with Student Journey Platinum Insurance, follow these steps:
Student Journey Platinum Insurance Cancellation and Refund Information?
Before the effective date (free look period): Most IMG plans, including Student Journey Platinum, 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.
IMG Student Journey Platinum - FAQs
Why Buy Student Journey Platinum Insurance Through American Visitor Insurance?
Easy Plan Comparison and Purchase: Compare Student Journey Platinum, 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).