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Best Health Insurance for International Students in California

International student medical insurance cost California

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Why do international students need health insurance in California?

Healthcare in the USA is very expensive and is not free for international students. While many Universities offer student insurance but these plans are quite expensive. Given that there is no f1 visa health insurance requirements mandated by US consulates, and unless the University insists on the College insurance plans, students can compare international student insurance plans offered by popular US student insurance providers and buy the F1 student health insurance that they like best.

Which California colleges have the largest number of international students?

International Student Information

  • 1.4 million international students
  • 3.5% of all students
  • $3.2 billion spent by international students

List of universities in California for international students

Academy of Art University, San Francisco Academy of Chinese Culture and Health Sciences, Oakland
Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College, Berkeley Allan Hancock College, Santa Maria
Alliant International University, San Diego Alliant International University-System Office, San Francisco
American Academy of Dramatic Arts-West, Los Angeles American Baptist Seminary of the West, Berkeley
American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, San Francisco American Conservatory Theater, San Francisco
American Heritage University of Southern California American Intercontinental University, Los Angeles
American Jewish University, Los Angeles American River College, Sacramento
American Sports University, San Bernardino American University of Health Sciences, Long Beach
Anaheim University, Anaheim Antelope Valley College, Lancaster
Antioch University-Los Angeles Branch, Culver City Anthem College, Sacramento
Apollos University, Huntington Beach Argosy University-Inland Empire, San Bernardino
Argosy University-Orange County, Santa Ana Argosy University-San Diego, San Diego
Argosy University-San Francisco Bay Area, Alameda Art Center College of Design, Pasadena
Azusa Pacific University, Azusa Allied American University, Laguna Hills
Azusa Pacific University, Azusa American Film Institute Conservatory, Los Angeles
Antioch University-Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Argosy University-Los Angeles, Santa Monica
Anaheim Discovery Christian, Anaheim Bradshaw Christian School
Bakersfield College, Bakersfield Barstow Community College, Barstow
Bethel Seminary San Diego, San Diego Bethesda Christian University, Anaheim
Biola University, La Mirada Booker T Crenshaw Christian Leadership University Inc, San Diego
Brooks College, Sunnyvale Bryan College, Gold River
Bryan College, Los Angeles Bethany University, Scotts Valley
Berkeley City College, Berkeley Brooks College, Long Beach
Butte College, Oroville Cabrillo College, Aptos
California Christian College, Fresno California College of the Arts, Oakland
California College-San Diego, San Diego California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco
California State University-Bakersfield California Baptist University, Riverside
California Culinary Academy, San Francisco California State University-Chico
Chapman University, Orange Chaffey College, Rancho Cucamonga
College of the Canyons Apostles Lutheran School

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International Student Insurance California - Disclaimer

The information presented on American visitors insurance is for providing resources and health insurance for students in California. The resource provided here is in no any way intended to indicate any relationship between your California school/college/university and our company. International students should verify directly with the concerned California school/college/university to confirm whether this health insurance for college students in California meets the university F1 visa student insurance requirements.

What is international student health insurance?

International student health insurance is a specialized insurance plan designed for students studying abroad either short or long term while away from their home countries. This type of insurance is essential for international students, as it provides financial protection against high healthcare costs in USA. It covers a wide range of medical expenses including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, prescription medications and medical evacuation.

Many of the US domestic health insurance plans may not cover a person fully while abroad. Also, some international programs may require certain levels of health insurance while participating in their programs. We at American Visitor Insurance offer cheapest health insurance for international students while studying in the USA.

What does international student insurance cover?

What are the health insurance requirements for international students in California?

International students studying in California are generally required to have health insurance as a condition of enrollment. Here are the main requirements:

  • Mandatory Coverage: All F-1 and J-1 visa students in California must purchase health insurance before registering for classes. This requirement is enforced by various universities within the California State University (CSU) system and other institutions.
  • Minimum Coverage Levels: Insurance policies must usually have at least $100,000 in medical benefits per accident or illness and also include coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation.
  • University specific plans: Many universities in California offer their own health insurance plans that fulfill the required coverage for international students. However, if a student already has comparable coverage from another provider, they may be allowed to waive the university's plan.
  • Enrollment and Verification: Students must present proof of insurance coverage to their university's international student office before registration. Failure to do so may result in a hold on course registration.
  • Dependent Coverage: If international students have dependents, they must also ensure that their dependents are covered under an adequate health insurance plan.

What are the types of student insurance plans for international students in California?

University Sponsored Health Insurance Plans

In California, many universities, including those within the California State University (CSU) system, offer health insurance plans specifically for their students, including international students. 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 California 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 California offer an opt-out option, allowing students to waive the university-sponsored plan by providing proof of equivalent private health insurance.

Student health insurance plans on American Visitor Insurance for international students in California

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 California with more flexibility and customization in their coverage.

What to except from alternate student health insurance available on American Visitor Insurance?
  • You can customize your plan to meet your specific healthcare needs and budget
  • Private plans allows you to choose level of coverage, deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in), and benefits that best suit you
  • You can opt for additional coverage, such as for pre-existing conditions, maternity care, mental health services, or sports injuries, which may not be included in university-sponsored plans.
  • If you're bringing family members on an F2 visa, many private health insurance plans allow you to add them to your policy, offering convenient coverage for your dependents.
  • Offers coverage for emergency medical evacuation or repatriation, ensuring you are protected in case of serious illness, injury, or death.

Foreign students on F1 visas studying in California 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.

Why is medical insurance important for international students in California?

In the USA, healthcare isn’t free and given the high cost of healthcare in the US, student health insurance is very important. Routine doctor visits, diagnostic tests, or treatments can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. Students medical insurance not only provides financial protection but also ensures access to quality healthcare when needed. For International students in California having health insurance is strongly recommended. Most universities in California also require international students to have health insurance.

Student Medical Insurance

How much does F1 visa student health insurance cost in the US in 2025?

How much is insurance for international students in the USA? How much does International student insurance cost per month?

The international student insurance for USA cost per month ranges from $30 to $463. The price depends on the factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance. Additionally the student health insurance cost in the US also depends on coverage for mental illness, dental expenses, hazardous sports, maternity and coverage for pre-existing ailments. Here at American Visitor insurance we have calculated the cost of health insurance for international students to help you compare and make an informed choice while buying the plan.

Insurance Plans Policy maximum Deductible Cost *
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips $100,000 $0 $32
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips $250,000 $0 $53
Patriot Exchange IMG $50,000 to $500,000 $0 to $500 $53 - $70
Diplomat America Global Underwriters $50,000 $250 $63
Student Health Advantage IMG $500,000 $250 $115
Navigator Student GeoBlue Unlimited Coverage $0 $463

* The cost of health insurance for an international student per month aged 20 years.

What does Atlas MedEvac insurance offer for international students?

Many international students already have insurance for their time abroad but need evacuation and repatriation coverage to meet their school or visa requirements. These students choose Atlas MedEvac insurance. This supplemental plan can provide the coverage you need without the added benefits and cost.

  • Available for non U.S. citizens traveling to the United States or any destination outside their home country
  • Lifetime Maximum: Coverage up to $75,000
  • Deductible: $0
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $50,000
  • Repatriation of Remains: Up to $25,000
  • Local Burial or Cremation: Up to $5,000
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Atlas MedEvac Insurance

How is student medical insurance cost calculated in the USA?

  • Student's age: The student's age determines the cost of US student medical insurance. Students under age 20 can expect health insurance costs ranging from $30 to $450 per month, or $400 to $4,200 per year. The prices for best health insurance for f1 students in USA increases with the age of the student.
  • Length of health insurance for F1 students: The cheapest student health insurance in the US can be either monthly or on a daily basis. The price increases with the duration of coverage required.
  • Maximum F1 student insurance coverage: The cost of health insurance for international students in the US is directly dependent on the medical maximum coverage required. The cost of F1 student health insurance is less for lower medical maximum and increases with higher medical maximum coverage.
    Click here to read more »

Best health insurance for international medical graduates in USA

How much does F1 visa health insurance cost?

American Visitor Insurance offers cheap health insurance for f1 students in USA. Plans like Student Student Secure Smart and Student Secure budget are designed to meet the needs of international students studying abroad.

Features Student Secure Smart Student Secure budget
Cost* $32 $53
Medical Maximum $100,000 $250,000
Deductible $0 $0
Payment Option Monthly or Annual Monthly or Annual
Paper Application Application Application
Pre-existing condition Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions Covered after 12 months
Medical Evacuation $50,000 maximum $250,000 maximum
Maternity Not Covered Up to $5,000
Hospital copayment $200 per visit $150 per visit
Urgent care $100 co-payment $75 co-payment
Local Ambulance $300 per injury $500 per injury

* The cost of F1 visa health insurance per month for an international student aged 20 years.

What is the best health insurance for OPT students?

OPT (Optional Practical Training) insurance is designed for international students on an F1 visa who are working in the U.S. after graduation. It provides essential health coverage during the OPT period, ensuring protection against high medical costs in the U.S. The best student health insurance plan for someone on OPT status is generally the Atlas America insurance.

Features Atlas America Patriot Exchange Program
Cost # $50 $70
Medical Maximum $50,000 $50,000
Deductible $250 $250
Payment Option Monthly or Annual Annual
Paper Application Application Application
Pre-existing condition Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions Covered after 12 months
Medical Evacuation $1,000,000 maximum $50,000 maximum
Maternity Covered Not covered
Repatriation Equal to overall maximum limit $100,000
Urgent care $15 co-payment $50 co-payment
Sports coverage Sports & activities Optional adventure sports

# The cost of OPT student health insurance per month for an international student aged 25 years.

What is the best health insurance in California for international students?

Here are some of the best health insurance providers in California:
  • Student Secure Insurance: by WorldTrips provides excellent insurance cover to international students and scholars outside their home country. This plan is ideal for J1 and F1 and OPT students.
  • Student Health Advantage: by IMG designed for International students or Cultural Exchange scholars. This plan covers covers Maternity Newborn Care.
  • Patriot Exchange Insurance: by IMG designed for International students or Cultural Exchange scholars. It is a very affordable plan and meets J visa requirements and F Visa for international students.
  • Geoblue Navigator for Student: by GeoBlue offers worldwide coverage for international students and faculty outside their home country. Offers Unlimited annual and lifetime medical maximum.

What is the cheapest health insurance in California for international students?

The affordable international student health insurance in California is the StudentSecure Smart plan. The cost for this plan starts at around $32 per month, providing coverage up to $100,000 with a $0 deductible. This plan is designed to meet the needs of international students while studying in the U.S. and offers essential medical benefits.

How does one find the best health insurance as an international student in California?

Comparing international students insurance is easy on American Visitor Insurance ! Some institutions have specific requirements that must be met and others don’t. Check those first. If you want to be able to pay monthly (most require a one-time payment), then the Student Secure insurance offered by World Trips are a great option. You can choose to purchase them monthly (so you will be charged each month on a credit card) or as a one-time fee.

Note that there are four levels of the plan (Smart, Budget, Select, and Elite) which allows you to customize your plan and only get what you want or need without over paying for coverage you don’t want or need. You can compare Student Secure Insurance plan benefits and coverage. If you need help figuring out your institution’s requirements, give us a call and we’ll be happy to find something that will work for your situation! We can also help provide the student insurance waiver form that is required by some universities.

Cheapest health insurance for international students in USA – FAQ's

1. Do F1 students need health insurance for California?

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.

2. Can international students get health insurance for California?

Yes, International students can definitely get student medical insurance, we offer many medical insurance for college students in California options on American Visitor Insurance. Quite often, the universities themselves offer student insurance, however this can be expensive. College student health insurance for California 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.

3. Can international students get medicare?

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

4. Is California a good state for international students?

California is considered a great state for international students due to its prestigious universities, diverse cultural environment, and extensive support services. The state hosts renowned institutions like Stanford, UC Berkeley, and UCLA, providing high-quality education and numerous networking opportunities, especially in industries like technology and entertainment. Additionally, California'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.

5. How to compare & buy cheapest health insurance in California for students?

  • Complete the California student insurance quote request form by providing details of the student and insurance requirements.
  • Compare the price and the benefits of the different health insurance for students options to identify what fits your needs best.
  • Purchase the plan that fits your needs and budget best by using a credit card and completing the online application.
  • Review the student health insurance for California documents received by email closely for coverage details and relevant contact numbers

6. Can international students work in California?

Yes, international students can work in California, 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.

6. Can international students work in California?

Yes, international students can work in California, 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.

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You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), WorldTrips, GeoBlue insurance.

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