Best Health Insurance for International Students in Georgia

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. Students should have proper insurance 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 student insurance options on American Visitor Insurance. Quite often, the universities themselves offer student insurance, however this can be expensive. At student insurance plans 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.

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.

International student health insurance is health insurance coverage for individuals who are studying abroad either short or long term while away from their home countries. 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. 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.

Yes. In Georgia, 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 Georgia 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 Georgia allow international students to waive university-sponsored health insurance if they have a private plan that meets the school's coverage requirements.

International student health insurance in the USA costs between $30 and $124 per month. The price varies based on factors such as the student’s age, coverage length, medical benefits, deductible, co-insurance, and whether the plan includes coverage for mental health, dental care, hazardous sports, maternity, and pre-existing conditions.

Common waiver-compliant plans include:

• Patriot Exchange
• Student Secure Elite/Select
• Student Health Advantage Platinum

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.

No, OPT (Optional Practical Training) students are not eligible for university-sponsored student insurance plans after graduation. However, they can purchase specialized OPT health insurance plans from private providers like ISO, IMG, or International Student Insurance that meet their visa requirements and provide essential coverage during their OPT period.

To purchase F1 student health insurance in Georgia, you need:

• Passport
• F1 Visa copy
• I-20 form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
• School information (name, address, start/end dates)
• Personal details (name, date of birth, contact info)

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 Georgia 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.