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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 is the cheapest health insurance for international students in California?

The cheapest health insurance for F1 students in California 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

$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

$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

$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 California?

The best health insurance plans for international students in California 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

$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

$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

$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 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 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 $124. 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.

The cost of health insurance for an international student per month aged 20 years.
Insurance Plans Policy maximum Deductible Cost
Student Journey Lite IMG $150,000 $100 $30
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips $200,000 $0 $32
Student Journey Plus IMG $300,000 $500 $48
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips $500,000 $0 $53
Patriot Exchange IMG $50,000 $250 $56
Diplomat America Global Underwriters $50,000 $250 $71
Student Journey Platinum IMG $500,000 $250 $74
StudentSecure Select WorldTrips $1,000,000 $0 $106
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG $500,000 $250 $124

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

International student health insurance USA

Review student insurance plan benefits.

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Who are the best health insurance providers for international students in the USA?

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. Some insurance providers offer reliable and best plans that are designed for international students.

Best health insurance providers for international students in the USA are:
  • International Medical Group (IMG): Offers a wide range of plan options like Student Journey, which is designed for international students and scholars who are looking for an affordable student insurance with comprehensive coverage for medical expenses and hospitalization.
  • WorldTrips: Offers comprehensive student medical insurance plans like StudentSecure Smart plan starting at $31 per month with comprehensive coverage and a $0 deductible, which is an excellent and affordable option, covers emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation and repatriation of remains.
  • GeoBlue: Offers the great option like Navigator Student plan, designed for both U.S. students studying abroad and international students in the USA. It offers comprehensive coverage, including an unlimited medical maximum and global provider access.

Which is the popular health insurance for international students in USA?

Patriot Exchange Program IMG

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
  • Pre-existing condition: Comprehensive plan with high medical maximum and pre-existing conditions coverage after 12 months of waiting period.
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 24 months.
  • Patriot Exchange Program insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $56 per month ($675 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.
  • Policy maximum?
    $50,000 to $5,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0 to $500

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

Student Journey Platinum IMG

  • Ideal for : J1, F1, A1 and M1 visas, Adventure Sports, Maternity
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 6 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 40 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to 30 days max
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 12 months.
  • Student Journey Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $74 per month ($888 per year). An annual payment option is available to students.
  • Policy maximum?
    $500,000

  • Deductible options?
    $250

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 12 months

StudentSecure Select Insurance Worldtrips

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
  • Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
  • Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 30 visits, Inpatient: Max 30 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
  • Student Secure Select insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $106 per month ($1248 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.
  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Standard IMG

  • Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
  • Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from 118 per month ($1,416 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available. Offers high policy maximum and good coverage for various medical emergencies.
  • Policy maximum?
    $500,000

  • Deductible options?
    $250

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

StudentSecure Elite Insurance Worldtrips

  • Ideal for : F1 & J1 students visa holder, Maternity, Sports coverage
  • Acute on set of pre-existing condition: $25,000 up to policy maximum
  • Mental health: Physician Office Visit: Max 40 visits, Inpatient: Max 40 days (includes drug and alcohol abuse)
  • Direct Billing: United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 4 years.
  • Student Secure Elite insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $181 per month ($2135 per year). You can buy the plan either on a monthly or a yearly basis.
  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $0

  • Period of coverage?
    30 days to 364 days

Student Health Advantage Platinum IMG

  • Ideal for : F1, J1,M1 and A1 students visa holder, Adventure Sports, Maternity
  • Pre-existing condition: Covers after 12 months of waiting period
  • Mental health: Out Patient : Max 50 visits, maximum limit, Inpatient: Up to $10,000
  • Direct Billing: First healthcare network First health care Provider Network or United HealthCare United Healthcare Provider Network
  • Renewal: Can be renewed and extended up to 60 months.
  • Student Health Advantage Platinum insurance cost for a 20 years old student starts from $353 per month ($4,236 per year), both monthly and annual payment options are available.
  • Policy maximum?
    $1,000,000

  • Deductible options?
    $100

  • Period of coverage?
    1 month up to 12 months

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

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. 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 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 California student health insurance?

As an international student studying in California, you're likely enrolled automatically in your university’s health insurance plan. While these plans offer solid coverage, they can be expensive. Fortunately, many California 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 California 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 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.

7. 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.

8. Is health insurance mandatory for international students in California?

Yes. In California, 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.

9. Can I waive university-sponsored health insurance in California?

Yes, most universities in California 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.

10. Which universities in California allow insurance waivers?

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

11. What is the cost of student health insurance in California?

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.

12. Which student insurance plans meet California 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.

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

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.

14. Can OPT students in California 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.

15. What documents are needed to buy F1 student insurance in California?

To purchase F1 student health insurance in California, 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.

16. Where can I compare health insurance plans for California students?

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

17. 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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