Affordable F1 student health insurance plans that meet Alabama university requirements – starting from $30/month
As the population of international students continues to expand, Alabama has become a popular place for these students - more than 10,000 international students currently studying in Alabama - and they have a significant impact on Alabama's economy by providing nearly $348 million through tuition, living expenses, and other expenditures.
Institutions such as The University of Alabama attract students from nearly 100 countries, creating a diverse and globally connected academic environment. Indian students make up a significant portion of Alabama’s international student population, followed by students from China and Nigeria.
In addition to academic opportunities and a relatively affordable cost of living, Alabama universities emphasize the importance of international student health insurance for Alabama.
Most institutions require students to maintain active health coverage that meets university standards, helping protect against the high cost of medical care in the United States. By comparing plans on American Visitor Insurance, international students can secure reliable health coverage, meet school guidelines, and study in Alabama without worrying about unexpected medical expenses.
Health insurance costs for international students in Alabama vary based on age, coverage limits, deductible level, and insurance provider. The cost of health insurance for college students in Alabama can range approximately:
These private plans offer affordable student insurance in Alabama and can provide excellent value compared to university-sponsored policies while still providing strong protection for emergencies, hospitalization, and routine care.
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®
The cheapest health insurance for F1 students in Alabama is the Student Journey Lite insurance plan, with premiums starting at just $30 per month.
Other affordable Alabama student health insurance option includes Student Secure Smart insurance and Student Journey Plus insurance.
To compare more budget-friendly plans and understand how to choose the cheapest health insurance for international students in USA, check our complete guide dedicated to helping students find the best and most affordable coverage.
Cheapest
Age: 20 years · $360 / year
Recommended
Age: 20 years · $372 / year
Best Coverage
Age: 20 years · $576 / year
The Best health insurance for college students in Alabama is Patriot Exchange Program plan by IMG, with prices starting at $56 per month.
Other top student health insurance program in Alabama include the Student Journey Platinum by IMG and the StudentSecure Select plan from WorldTrips.
To compare more budget-friendly plans and understand how to choose the Best student health insurance, check our complete guide to the Best health insurance for international students in the USA
Most Popular
Age: 20 years · $938 / year
High Coverage
Age: 20 years · $888 / year
Premium
Age: 20 years · $1248 / year
A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan can be very helpful for international students studying in Alabama because it offers greater flexibility, convenience, and cost savings when accessing medical care.
The health insurance requirements for international students in Alabama generally include the following:
University health insurance plans are health coverage options provided directly by universities to their students, including international students. These plans are designed to address the unique healthcare needs of students during their time at the university. These plans are designed to address the unique healthcare needs of students during their time at the university.
For international students, these plans offer comprehensive coverage that typically includes medical services like doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, mental health support, and sometimes dental and vision care. Enrollment in these plans is often mandatory for international students, with the cost included in their tuition fees to ensure coverage from the start of their academic program.
University sponsored health insurance plans in Alabama provide comprehensive coverage but often quite expensive. The cost, often included in tuition and mandatory fees, can put a financial strain on students, especially those with limited budget. In cases where students prefer a different plan, some universities in Alabama offer an opt-out option, allowing students to waive the university-sponsored plan by providing proof of equivalent private health insurance.
In the US there are reputed private insurance providers who offers greater flexibility and benefits, allowing you to choose between ‘basic coverage’ or ‘full’ coverage. This enables you to reduce your insurance costs while still ensuring adequate protection for common medical situations, such as emergencies, or unexpected illnesses. This is an alternative to university-sponsored insurance, providing international students in Alabama with more flexibility and customization in their coverage.
What to except from alternate student health insurance available on American Visitor Insurance?Foreign students on F1 visas studying in Alabama can compare and buy students insurance on American Visitor Insurance. For more details, please contact us at (877)-340-7910 or email, and one of our licensed agents will help you find the best international student insurance.
Yes, many universities in Alabama offer student health insurance plans, and international students are often required to enroll unless they qualify for a waiver. However, these university-sponsored plans are usually:
As a result, many international students choose private student health insurance plans that meet university waiver requirements while offering greater flexibility, broader provider networks, and lower monthly costs.
When choosing the best travel insurance for students studying abroad, understanding the factors that drive the cost is important.
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.
Healthcare costs in Alabama can be very high, especially for international students who are not eligible for government-sponsored healthcare programs. Even a single medical emergency can result in thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses if you do not have health insurance.
Average Medical Costs in Alabama (Without Insurance)| Medical Service | Average Cost in Alabama |
|---|---|
| Emergency room visit | $1,800 – $4,500 |
| Ambulance services | $500 – $2,000 |
| Hospital stay | $2,500+ per day |
| MRI / CT scan | $1,200 – $3,500 |
Note: Costs are estimates and may vary depending on the hospital, city, and type of treatment. Without student health insurance, international students are responsible for paying these medical costs in full, which can create serious financial stress during their studies.
Many international students unknowingly choose the wrong health insurance policy, which can lead to claim denials or high out-of-pocket medical expenses. Below are some of the most common mistakes to avoid when selecting student health insurance in Alabama:
Visitor insurance plans often do not meet university requirements and may exclude essential benefits such as mental health services, preventive care, or maternity coverage.
The U.S. does not provide free healthcare to international students. Even a minor emergency room visit in Alabama can cost thousands of dollars without insurance.
👉 Tip: Always choose a student health insurance plan that meets your university requirements and matches your lifestyle and health needs.
Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.
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Some plans cover high school sports activities.
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Repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.
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Expenses from sudden dental pain and accidental dental injuries.
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Some plans offer coverage for pregnancy, maternity and new born.
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Student Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.
Know more »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.
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.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 |
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 |
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.
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.
| 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 |
Best health insurance for international student Athletes.
Choosing American Visitor Insurance for your F1 student health insurance or international travel insurance needs comes with several key benefits:
Choosing the right student health insurance is important to ensure you’re protected from high U.S. healthcare costs while meeting university requirements. Here’s how to choose the best student health insurance plan:
As an international student studying in Alabama, you're likely enrolled automatically in your university’s health insurance plan. While these plans offer solid coverage, they can be expensive. Fortunately, many Alabama universities allow students to waive the school-sponsored insurance if they purchase a private plan that meets certain criteria.
Each university has its own waiver rules. Start by checking your school’s health services website for the required coverage limits, deductible maximums, and specific benefits like mental health, maternity, and emergency evacuation. Schools in Alabama such as The University of Alabama (UA), Auburn University, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Alabama A&M University, and Troy University often ask for:
Once you understand the requirements, visit American Visitor Insurance to compare student insurance plans. Choose a PPO-based plan from top providers like:
These plans are more affordable than university-sponsored options and still meet waiver guidelines. After purchasing, you’ll receive instant confirmation and the documents needed for your waiver submission.
Complete your university’s waiver form and attach the insurance documents provided by your private insurer. Be sure to submit everything before the school’s deadline. Some insurers on American Visitor Insurance also assist directly with waiver documentation to make the process easier.
If your waiver is approved, your school will remove the health insurance fee from your tuition bill, and your private insurance will take over coverage. If not, you may need to modify your plan or remain enrolled in the school’s policy.
Waiving your school insurance in Alabama is a great way to save money without sacrificing coverage if done right. With the right plan from a trusted provider, you can stay protected, meet your university's requirements, and avoid high healthcare costs.
Without doubt, all students should have health insurance while they are in the US. The US health care costs are the highest in the world and a minor injury or accident could set you back tens of thousands of dollars. Being healthy and taking care of yourself is, of course, highly recommended, but accidents happen to us all and when we least expect. It is advisable buy cheapest health insurance for students before anything emergency situation arises so that you do not find yourself in serious debt.
Yes, International students can definitely get student medical insurance, we offer many medical insurance for college students in Alabama options on American Visitor Insurance. Quite often, the universities themselves offer student insurance, however this can be expensive. College student health insurance for Alabama that we offer are considerably more affordable than the University insurance plans, while providing similar coverage benefits. However, students should confirm if the University allows students to but insurance outside the University, and if they can get the required insurance waiver for this student insurance.
Alabama is considered a great state for international students due to its prestigious universities, diverse cultural environment, and extensive support services. Alabama's rich cultural diversity allows students to engage with various communities and traditions, enhancing their overall experience. While the cost of living and tuition can be high, the comprehensive support systems in place help international students adapt and thrive academically and socially.
Yes, international students can work in Alabama, primarily under an F-1 visa. They are allowed to work on-campus without prior authorization, limited to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during breaks. For off-campus employment, they must obtain authorization through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), which requires approval from their school's International Student Office and USCIS. It's important for students to follow all regulations to maintain their visa status.
Yes. In Alabama, international students on F 1 or J 1 visas are generally required to purchase and maintain adequate health insurance throughout their studies. This requirement is enforced by both state university systems and many private universities.
Yes, most universities in Alabama allow international students to waive the university-sponsored health insurance plan, but only if you can show proof of comparable private insurance coverage that meets their specific requirements.
Many universities in Alabama allow international students to waive university-sponsored health insurance if they have a private plan that meets the school's coverage requirements.
Common waiver-compliant plans include:
These plans meet university standards for coverage limits, mental health benefits, emergency services, and provider ratings.
If you don’t have health insurance, your university may automatically enroll you in their Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) and charge the premium to your tuition. Without coverage, you could also face high out-of-pocket medical costs and may not meet visa or enrollment requirements if you're an international student.
Yes, OPT (Optional Practical Training) students in Alabama can usually continue using their international student health insurance if the plan allows coverage after graduation or while on OPT. Plans like Student Journey (IMG), StudentSecure (WorldTrips), and Patriot Exchange Program (IMG) can provide continued coverage for OPT students, but you should check the plan terms for eligibility and duration.
To purchase F1 student health insurance in Alabama, you need:
Some providers may also request your student ID number or proof of enrollment. Most plans can be purchased online with digital copies of these documents.
You can compare health insurance plans for Alabama students on American Visitor Insurance allows you to compare top-rated insurance plans based on waiver requirements, coverage benefits, and pricing.
Students can find a doctor or hospital by using the PPO network search tool provided by their insurance plan. After purchasing student health insurance, they receive access to a provider directory where they can search for in-network doctors, clinics, or hospitals by location and specialty. Visiting in-network providers ensures lower out-of-pocket costs and smoother claim processing. Always carry your insurance ID card when visiting a provider.
Yes — many international student medical insurance plans offer monthly payment options that allow you to pay small amounts each month instead of a single annual premium. Monthly student insurance plans can be budget-friendly and flexible, especially for students staying for less than a full year. Keep in mind that monthly payments may result in a slightly higher total cost compared to paying annually.
You can compare affordable monthly student health insurance plans for students in Alabama and across the U.S. through American Visitor Insurance.
Some international student health insurance plans support paper application or assisted enrollment, which is helpful if you don’t have a credit card or cannot complete an online payment. Student medical insurance plans such as Patriot Exchange Insurance and StudentSecure Insurance offer options where students can submit a paper application or work with a representative for offline enrollment.
To confirm current paper application availability, approved payment methods, and step-by-step assistance, you can contact American Visitor Insurance at (877)-340-7910 or speak with a licensed expert during the enrollment process.
The information presented on American visitors insurance is for providing resources and health insurance for students in Alabama. The resource provided here is in no any way intended to indicate any relationship between your Alabama school/college/university and our company. International students should verify directly with the concerned Alabama school/college/university to confirm whether this health insurance for college students in Alabama meets the university F1 visa student insurance requirements.
Insurance plans for students on OPT status, OPT student insurance.
Learn More »Compare and buy student health insurance quotes Alabama online
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Know More »Compare and buy the best health insurance in Alabama for students online.
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