Best Health Insurance for International Students in New York 2026

How Much Does New York Student Health Insurance Cost in 2026?

Health insurance costs for international students in New York vary based on age, coverage limits, deductible level, and insurance provider. The cost of health insurance for college students in New York can range approximately:

• Cheapest student health insurance in New York: $30 – $48 per month (budget-friendly plans)
• Best New York Health Insurance for Students: $56 - $106 per month (comprehensive plans)

These private plans offer affordable student insurance in New York and can provide excellent value compared to university-sponsored policies while still providing strong protection for emergencies, hospitalization, and routine care.

Compare Top Student Health Insurance Plans in New York

What Is the Cheapest Health Insurance for Students in New York?

To compare more budget-friendly plans and understand how to choose the cheapest student health insurance, check our complete guide to the cheapest health insurance for international students in the USA

Cheapest

Student Journey Lite

$30 / month

Age: 20 years · $360 / year

• Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $45
• Emergency Medical Evacuation: $60,000
• Urgent Care Clinic: Pays 100%

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Recommended

StudentSecure Smart

$32 / month

Age: 20 years · $372 / year

• Student Health Center Copay: $25 per visit
• Medical Evacuation: $250,00,000 lifetime maximum
• Urgent Care Clinic: $30 per visit

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Best Coverage

Student Journey Plus

$48 / month

Age: 20 years · $576 / year

• Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $25
• Medical Evacuation: $120,000
• Urgent Care Clinic: 80% In-Network Coverage / $50 Copay

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Best Health Insurance for International Students in New York?

Most Popular

Patriot Exchange Program

$56 / month

Age: 20 years · $938 / year

• Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $5 per visit
• Medical Evacuation: $50,000 policy maximum
• Urgent Care Clinic: 90% In-Network Coverage / $50 Copay

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High Coverage

Student Journey Platinum

$74 / month

Age: 20 years · $888 / year

• Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $25
• Emergency Medical Evacuation: Unlimited
• Urgent Care Clinic: 80% In-Network Coverage / $50 Copay

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Premium

StudentSecure Select

$106 / month

Age: 20 years · $1248 / year

• Student Health Center Deductible/Copay: $10 per visit
• Medical Evacuation: Up to $300,000 lifetime maximum
• Urgent Care Center: $50 per visit

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Top New York Universities with Large International Student Populations

Why International Students Need Health Insurance in New York?

Healthcare in the United States is not free, and medical costs in New York can be very high. Routine doctor visits, diagnostic tests, emergency care, or hospital treatment can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. Since international students are not eligible for government-funded healthcare programs such as Medicaid or Medicare, health insurance becomes essential.

Most universities in New York strongly require F-1 and J-1 international students to maintain active medical insurance throughout their studies. Having approved coverage helps students meet university and visa requirements while ensuring access to quality healthcare when needed.

• Access medical care without financial stress
• Comply with university and visa insurance requirements
• Stay protected during emergencies, accidents, and illnesses
• Avoid large out-of-pocket medical expenses that could disrupt studies

Choosing the right student health insurance in New York provides both financial protection and peace of mind, allowing students to focus on their education with confidence.

Health Insurance Requirements for International Students in New York?

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

• New York University (NYU): International students are required to have health insurance. Students are automatically enrolled in the NYU-sponsored plan, with an option to waive it if they meet the minimum coverage criteria.
• University at Buffalo (UB): International students must carry health insurance available through SUNY or comparable coverage.
• Stony Brook University: Full-time, matriculated international students are automatically enrolled in the student health insurance plan.
• New York State Health Insurance Options: International students may be eligible to enroll in Qualified Health Plans through the New York State of Health Marketplace, and potentially access the Essential 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.
• Mandatory Coverage: Most universities and colleges in New York require international students to have health insurance as a condition of enrollment.
• 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 International Student Insurance in New York?

What Factors Determine International Student Health Insurance Cost?

When choosing the best travel insurance for students studying abroad, understanding the factors that drive the cost is important.

1. 1

   Student’s Age

   • Younger students usually pay lower premiums.
   • The prices for best health insurance for f1 students in USA increase with age due to higher medical risk.
2. 2

   Duration of Coverage

   • Whether it's a short summer program or a full multi-year degree, longer coverage = higher cost.
   • Most student plans are priced monthly or daily, so your total cost scales with time.
3. 3

   Maximum F1 Student Insurance Coverage

   • Plans typically range from $50,000 to $500,000+.
   • Higher coverage = more protection, but also higher premiums.
   • The cost of F1 student health insurance is less for lower medical maximum and increases with higher medical maximum coverage.
   • Important to meet visa or university requirements.
4. 4

   Deductible Amount

   • A higher deductible reduces your monthly premium.
   • Lower deductible = better emergency coverage, but increased plan cost.
5. 5

   Type of Insurance Plan

   • Budget plans cover essentials only (emergency care, accidents).
   • Comprehensive plans include broader protection (checkups, mental health, maternity) — priced higher.
6. 6

   Visa or University Requirements

   • Some visas (like F-1 or J-1) or universities require a minimum coverage standard.
   • This can increase cost if your plan needs an upgrade to meet the requirements.
7. 7

   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.

For a detailed breakdown of these factors and tips on choosing the right plan, visit our guide on the factors for buying best student health insurance plan.

What Does International Student Insurance Cover?

Doctor Visit

Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.

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Sports Activities

Some plans cover high school sports activities.

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Repat of Remains

Repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.

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Dental Coverage

Expenses from sudden dental pain and accidental dental injuries.

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Maternity Coverage

Some plans offer coverage for pregnancy, maternity and new born.

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Pre-existing Conditions

Student Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions.

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What Are the F-1 Visa Health Insurance Requirements?

If you’re an international student planning to study in the USA on an F1 visa, having the right health insurance is essential. Most of the universities typically require health insurance for F1 students that include medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and often mental health or maternity care. To make sure you meet both university and visa requirements, explore our comprehensive guide on best F1 visa health insurance requirements in USA.

What Are the Payment Options for International Students?

International students in the US come from different countries, with diverse economic backgrounds and face different financial needs. At American Visitor Insurance we offer health insurance for international students with flexible payment structures designed to make it more affordable and convenient, whether they are in the US for a semester or for an entire program spanning many semesters.

• Student insurance payment options vary based on the insurance provider and the length of coverage selected.
• Most international student health insurance plans offer monthly or annual payment options. Students who prefer flexible payments can learn more about buying student health insurance monthly.
• Insurance plans can be purchased online for faster approval or submitted through a paper application for students who prefer offline enrollment or require assistance.
• Monthly payment options may require continuous enrollment and automatic billing, while annual payments are usually made as a one-time payment.
• Students should confirm approved payment methods (credit card, debit card, or other options) with their university’s international student or billing office.
• Choosing the right payment option helps international students select a plan that is cost-effective, reliable, and suitable for their location and healthcare needs.

How to Apply for International Student Insurance (Online vs Paper)?

There are two simple ways to apply for student health insurance for F1 students and international students in the USA.

How can international students apply for insurance without online payment or a credit card?

For international students who are unable to complete an online purchase, some international student medical insurance plans offer a paper application option. This offline method is ideal for applicants who do not have access to international credit cards, online banking, or U.S.-based payment methods.

American Visitor Insurance assists international students with both paper applications and online insurance purchases. Students can apply without online payment by submitting required documents manually through a paper application, or they may complete enrollment online with step-by-step guidance from experienced representatives. Applications can also be coordinated through schools, sponsors, or program coordinators when needed.

With flexible payment options and multiple enrollment methods, American Visitor Insurance supports F1 students, OPT students, and international students buying health insurance from outside the United States, making it simple to secure reliable student medical insurance coverage before arriving on campus.

What Is the Best Insurance for International Student Athletes?

The best insurance for international student athletes in the USA depends on the type of sport, level of participation, and university requirements. There are several U.S. student health insurance plans that cover sports activities, but coverage details, limits, and eligibility can vary by plan.

Because sports coverage differs by sport intensity and risk level, there is no single “best” plan for every student athlete. Instead, students should choose a plan that offers the appropriate sports rider and meets school, visa, and athletic program requirements.

At American Visitor Insurance, we offer a range of sports health insurance plans for international students designed for recreational, intercollegiate, and competitive sports participation.

Top Sports Insurance Plans for International Students

How to Buy the Best International Student Insurance in 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 student health insurance plan:

• Check university insurance requirements
  Many U.S. universities require students to enroll in their own health plans unless proof of comparable coverage is provided. Before buying, review the university’s waiver form for criteria such as minimum policy maximum (e.g., $100,000 or more), deductible limits (e.g., under $500), and required coverage for mental health, maternity, and pre-existing conditions.
• Compare coverage options
  Look for plans that offer comprehensive medical coverage for doctor visits, hospitalization, and prescriptions; emergency services such as ambulance, evacuation, and repatriation; mental health and maternity care as required by the school; and COVID-19 coverage if still mandated.
• Check premium and deductible
  Lower premiums may lead to higher out-of-pocket costs, so balance monthly affordability with deductibles and co-insurance amounts you’re comfortable with.
• Provider reputation & network
  Choose plans from trusted companies like IMG and WorldTrips available on American Visitor Insurance. Make sure they offer easy online claims and access to large hospital networks in the U.S.
• Additional benefits
  Some plans include extra perks like coverage during Optional Practical Training (OPT), free telemedicine, and discounts on prescriptions.

How to Buy and Waive New York Student Health Insurance?

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

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

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

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Best Health Insurance for International Students in USA

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