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Best Health Insurance for International Students in Iowa

International student medical insurance cost Iowa

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Why do international students need health insurance in Iowa?

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 Iowa colleges have the largest number of international students?

International Student Information

  • 11,164 total international students
  • 2.7% of all students
  • $306.3-million spent by international students

List of universities in Iowa for international students

Allen College, Waterloo Ashford University
Buena Vista University, Storm Lake Brown Mackie College-Quad Cities, Bettendorf
Briar Cliff University, Sioux City Central College, Pella
Clarke College, Dubuque Coe College, Cedar Rapids
Cornell College, Mount Vernon Clinton Community College, Clinton
Des Moines Area Community College, Ankeny Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center, Des Moines
Divine Word College, Epworth Dordt College, Sioux Center
Drake University, Des Moines Eastern Iowa Community College District, Davenport
Ellsworth Community College, Iowa Falls Faith Baptist Bible College and Theological Seminary, Ankeny
Graceland University-Lamoni, Lamoni Grand View College, Des Moines
Grinnell College, Grinnell Hamilton Technical College, Davenport
Hawkeye Community College, Waterloo Indian Hills Community College, Ottumwa
Iowa Central Community College, Fort Dodge Iowa Lakes Community College, Estherville
Iowa State University, Ames Iowa Wesleyan College, Mount Pleasant
Iowa Western Community College, Council Bluffs Iowa State University of Science & Technology, Ames
ITT Technical Institute - Clive, Clive Kaplan University, Davenport
Kaplan University-Cedar Falls Campus, Cedar Falls Kaplan University-Cedar Rapids Campus, Cedar Rapids
Kaplan University-Mason City Campus, Mason City Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids
Loras College, Dubuque Luther College, Decorah
North Iowa Area Community College, Mason City Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield
Mercy College of Health Sciences, Des Moines Morningside College, Sioux City
Muscatine Community College, Muscatine Upper Iowa University, Fayette
Northwest Iowa Community College, Sheldon Northwestern College, Orange City
Palmer College of Chiropractic, Davenport Saint Ambrose University, Davenport
Simpson College, Indianola Southeastern Community College, West Burlington
Southwestern Community College, Creston Scott Community College, Bettendorf
University of Iowa, Iowa City University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls
Wartburg College, Waverly Wartburg Theological Seminary, Dubuque
Western Iowa Tech Community College, Sioux City William Penn University, Oskaloosa
Emmaus Bible College Mount Mercy College, Cedar Rapids
Vennard College, University Park Marshalltown Community College, Marshalltown
Northeast Iowa Community College-Calmar, Calmar St Luke's College, Sioux City
University of Dubuque, Dubuque Vatterott College, Des Moines
Waldorf College, Forest City

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International Student Insurance Iowa - Disclaimer

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

What does international student insurance cover?

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

The cheapest health insurance for F1 students in Iowa is offered by the Student Journey Lite insurance plan, starting at just $30 per month. Other affordable student health insurance option includes Student Secure Smart insurance and Student Journey Plus insurance. This cost mainly depends on different factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance.

Student Journey Lite
IMG logo

$30 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $360 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $150,000
  • Deductible: $100 per injury/illness
  • Student health center deductible/copay: $45
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed from 30 days to 12 months.
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StudentSecure Smart
worldtrips logo

$32 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $372 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $200,000
  • Deductible: $0
  • Student health center copay: $25 per visit
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: No coverage
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
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Student Journey Plus
IMG logo

$48 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $576 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $300,000
  • Deductible: $500 per period
  • Student health center deductible/copay: $25
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed from 30 days to 12 months.
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What are the best health insurance plans for international students in Iowa?

The best health insurance plans for international students in Iowa include the Student Journey Platinum by IMG, Patriot Exchange Program from IMG, StudentSecure Select from WorldTrips. Choosing the best health insurance for international students in the USA depends on factors such as personal health needs, budget, university insurance requirements, and visa status.

Patriot Exchange Program
IMG logo

$56 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $938 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $50,000
  • Deductible: $250 per illness/injury
  • Student health center deductible/copay: $5
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 12 months of waiting period.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months
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Student Journey Platinum
IMG logo

$74 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $888 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $500,000
  • Deductible: $250 per period
  • Student health center deductible/copay: $15
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.
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StudentSecure Select
worldtrips logo

$106 for 1 month

Age: 20 years | $1248 for 12 months

  • Policy maximum: $1,000,000
  • Deductible: $0
  • Student health center copay: $10 per visit
  • Direct billing: United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Pre-Existing Conditions: Covers after 6 months of waiting period.
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
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What are the health insurance requirements for international students in Iowa?

The health insurance requirements for international students in Iowa generally include the following:

  • University of Iowa (UI): Mandatory enrollment in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Dependents can be added.
  • Iowa State University (ISU): All international students and dependents must enroll in the ISU Student and Scholar Health Insurance Program (SSHIP). Private insurance plans are not accepted.
  • University of Northern Iowa (UNI): Automatic enrollment in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Exceptions allowed for government or corporate-sponsored plans.
  • Drake University: Mandatory enrollment in the university's health insurance plan. Dependents can be added upon request.
  • Hawkeye Community College: F-1 students are required to enroll in the college-provided insurance plan.
  • Review University Policies: Each institution has specific health insurance requirements. Contact your university’s international student office for detailed guidance.
  • Verify Coverage: If you opt for a private insurance plan, ensure it meets university and visa requirements, including those for J-1 visa holders.
  • Maintain Active Insurance: Continuous coverage is essential to comply with policies and avoid unexpected medical costs.
  • University specific plans: Many universities 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 Iowa?

University Sponsored Health Insurance Plans

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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa

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 Iowawith 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 Iowa 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 Iowa?

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 Iowa having healthinsurance is strongly recommended. Most universities in Iowa also require international students to have health insurance.

Student Medical Insurance

How much does F1 visa health insurance cost?

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

Features Student Journey Lite Student Secure budget
Cost* $30 $53
Medical Maximum $150,000 $500,000
Deductible $100 $0
Payment Option Annual Monthly or Annual
Paper Application Not Available Application
Pre-existing condition Covered after 6 months of waiting period Covered after 12 months
Medical Evacuation $60,000 maximum $250,000 maximum
Maternity $5,000 (normal), $7,500 (C-section) Up to $5,000
Hospital copayment Not Covered $150 per visit
Urgent care 100% $75 co-payment
Local Ambulance $400 per injury $500 per injury

* The cost of F1 visa health insurance per month for an international student aged 20 years. Source: American Visitor Insurance®

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. Source: American Visitor Insurance®

What factors determine international student health insurance cost?

  • 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 $124 per month. 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. Annual plans tend to be more expensive than short-term policies, but they offer more comprehensive benefits. The price increases with the duration of coverage required.
  • Maximum F1 student insurance coverage: Comprehensive plans that offers higher policy maximums and extensive coverage including benefits like mental health, dental, maternity, and pre-existing conditions generally comes with higher premiums. The cost of F1 student health insurance is less for lower medical maximum and increases with higher medical maximum coverage.
  • Deductibles and Co-insurance: Plans with lower deductibles (the amount the student pays out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins) and lower coinsurance, (the percentage the student pays for most medical costs after the deductible), will also have higher premiums.
  • Type of student health insurance: University-sponsored health insurance plans are often mandatory and offers comprehensive coverage, but usually are more expensive and allow for less flexibility. The private health insurance for international students available on American Visitor Insurance offer university requirements comparable coverage and are often more affordable than the university-sponsored plans making them flexible and cost-effective.
  • Coverage region: There is significant variance in the cost of student health insurance depending on the country the student will be studying in. Student medical insurance in the US is typically more expensive than in many other countries.
  • Optional add-on benefits: if the students need additional coverage for specific activities like adventure sports mental illness, preventive care services, home country would cost more.

Best health insurance for international medical graduates in USA

What are the benefits of choosing American Visitor Insurance?

Choosing American Visitor Insurance for your F1 student health insurance or international travel insurance needs comes with several key benefits:

  • Wide Choice of Plans
    • Compare top-rated health insurance plans for F1 visa holders, OPT students, J1 visa holders, and visitors.
    • Plans from reputed insurers like IMG, Trawick International, WorldTrips, and Seven Corners.
  • Affordable Pricing
    • Access budget-friendly options with customizable deductibles, maximum coverage limits, and optional add-ons.
    • Often more economical than many university-sponsored plans while still meeting university insurance requirements.
  • Easy Online Comparison & Purchase
    • Use American Visitor Insurance user-friendly comparison tools to evaluate multiple policies side-by-side.
    • Quick and secure online purchase process with instant confirmation.
  • Expert Guidance & Support
    • Free support from licensed insurance agents to help you choose the right plan.
    • Assistance in understanding university waiver requirements and policy details.
  • Covers Unique Needs
    • Specialized plans for students on OPT, mental health coverage, maternity, sports injuries, and more.
    • Flexible coverage start dates even from your home country or upon arrival in the U.S.
  • Reputable Platform with Years of Experience
    • Trusted by thousands of international students and visitors for over a decade.
    • Strong track record of customer satisfaction and reliable service.

How to choose the right student health insurance for international students in the USA?

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 plan:

  1. Check university insurance requirements
    Many U.S. universities require international students to enroll in their own health plans unless you provide proof of comparable coverage. Before buying, review the university’s waiver form for:
    • Minimum policy maximum (e.g., $100,000 or more)
    • Deductible limit (e.g., under $500)
    • Mental health, maternity, pre-existing condition coverage
  2. Compare coverage options
    Look for plans that offer:
    • Comprehensive medical coverage (doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs)
    • Emergency services (ambulance, evacuation, repatriation)
    • Mental health and maternity care (as per school rules)
    • COVID-19 coverage (still required by some schools)
  3. Check premium and deductible
    Lower premiums may come with higher out-of-pocket costs. Balance:
    • Monthly premium affordability
    • Deductibles and co-insurance you’re comfortable with
  4. Provider reputation & network
    Choose plans from trusted companies like IMG, Trawick International, or WorldTrips, available on American Visitor Insurance. Ensure they have:
    • Easy online claims
    • Access to large hospital networks in the U.S.
  5. Additional benefits
    Some plans offer extra perks such as:
    • Coverage during Optional Practical Training (OPT)
    • Free telemedicine
    • Discounts on prescriptions

How to buy & waive Iowa student health insurance?

As an international student studying in Iowa, you're likely enrolled automatically in your university’s health insurance plan. While these plans offer solid coverage, they can be expensive. Fortunately, many Iowa universities allow students to waive the school-sponsored insurance if they purchase a private plan that meets certain criteria.

Step 1: Know your university’s requirements

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 like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and CSU campuses often ask for:

  • Minimum policy maximum of $100,000 or more
  • Deductible below $500
  • Coverage for mental health, maternity, and emergency evacuation

Step 2: Buy a compliant private insurance plan

Once you understand the requirements, visit American Visitor Insurance to compare student insurance plans. Choose a PPO-based plan from top providers like:

  • IMG
  • Trawick International
  • WorldTrips

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.

Step 3: Submit your waiver form

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.

Step 4: Approval and Savings

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.

In Conclusion

Waiving your school insurance in Iowa 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.

Health insurance for international students in USA FAQ's

1. Do F1 students need health insurance for Iowa?

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 Iowa?

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

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.

5. Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Iowa?

Yes. In Iowa, 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.

6. Can I waive university-sponsored health insurance in Iowa?

Yes, most universities in Iowa 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.

7. Which universities in Iowa allow insurance waivers?

Many universities in Iowa allow international students to waive university-sponsored health insurance if they have a private plan that meets the school's coverage requirements.

8. What is the cost of student health insurance in Iowa?

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.

9. Which student insurance plans meet Iowa university waiver requirements?

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.

10. What happens if I don’t have health insurance as a student in Iowa?

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.

11. Can OPT students in Iowa continue using student insurance?

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.

12. What documents are needed to buy F1 student insurance in Iowa?

To purchase F1 student health insurance in Iowa, 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.

13. Where can I compare health insurance plans for Iowa students?

You can compare health insurance plans for Iowa students on American Visitor Insurance allows you to compare top-rated insurance plans based on waiver requirements, coverage benefits, and pricing.

14. How do students find a doctor or hospital with student health insurance?

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.

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