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Why Do UK Students Need Health Insurance in the USA?

UK students studying in the United States on an F-1 student visa are required by most US universities to maintain adequate health insurance coverage for the entire duration of their academic program. Although US immigration law does not mandate a specific federal insurance requirement for F-1 students, universities hold the authority to create mandatory health insurance requirements as part of enrollment and visa compliance.

Student health insurance for UK students in the USA usually includes:
  • Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Mental health treatment and limited dental coverage

UK students studying in the USA must pay all their medical costs since they do not receive NHS coverage. Students without qualified health insurance will face denied enrollment, loss of waiver approval, or out-of-pocket medical costs that can be financially devastating.

If your university allows international students to buy US student insurance outside the college then you can explore UK student health insurance for USA in American Visitors insurance. Our student insurance plans are comparable to university insurance plans but are significantly cheaper. Before purchasing any US student insurance for UK students, compare compare international student insurance plans on American Visitor Insurance and ensure that the coverage meets your specific needs.

How Much Does International Student Health Insurance Cost in 2026?

Health insurance costs for international students in USA vary based on age, coverage limits, deductible level, and insurance provider. The monthly cost of international student insurance in the USA typically ranges from $30 to $106 per month.

The monthly cost of international student insurance in the USA depends on the coverage level chosen for students aged 20.

Plan Cost (Monthly) Max Coverage Deductible Pre-existing Best For
Student Journey Lite IMG $30 $150,000 $100 After 6 months Budget-friendly basic coverage
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips $32 $200,000 $0 Acute onset covered Zero deductible + acute onset coverage
Student Journey Plus IMG $48 $300,000 $500 After 6 months Higher coverage with affordable premium
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips $53 $500,000 $0 After 12 months Budget-friendly plan with higher coverage limits
Patriot Exchange Program IMG $56 $50,000 $250 After 12 months Short-term students & adventure sports
Diplomat America Global Underwriters $71 $50,000 $250 After 12 months Acute onset covered
Student Journey Platinum IMG $74 $500,000 $250 After 6 months Comprehensive coverage with higher limits
StudentSecure Select WorldTrips $106 $1,000,000 $0 After 6 months Maximum coverage & premium benefits
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG $124 $500,000 $250 After 12 months Comprehensive student health coverage

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

What Is the Cheapest Health Insurance for Uk Students in USA?

The cheapest health insurance for UK students in USA is the Student Journey Lite insurance plan, with premiums starting at just $30 per month.

Other popular cheap insurance for international students includes:

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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What Does International Student Insurance Cover?

When Should UK Students Buy US Health Insurance?

UK students should purchase health insurance before travelling to the United States, ideally immediately after receiving their Form I-20 and confirming their university’s health-insurance requirements.

The purchase of US student health insurance should occur before the start of classes because it guarantees continuous medical coverage which allows students to fulfill university requirements while protecting them from expensive US healthcare expenses starting on their first day of school.

Recommended Timelines for UK Students

🎫 Before Visa Interview
F-1 visa interviews do not require health insurance, but students who bring insurance information show their ability to study in the USA while they organize their necessary coverage.

✈️ Before Departure from the UK
UK students are strongly advised to purchase US student health insurance before flying to the USA, with coverage starting on or before the arrival date. Medical emergencies can occur immediately after landing, and treatment without insurance can be extremely expensive.

🏫 Before University Enrollment Deadline
All US universities require students to provide valid health insurance before allowing students to register for classes or attend orientation. Students must either:

  • Enroll in the university-sponsored plan, or
  • Submit proof of a private international student health insurance plan that meets waiver requirements.

Missing the insurance deadline may result in automatic enrollment into a costly university plan.

💼 For OPT and Continuing Students
UK students transitioning to OPT or continuing their studies should renew or purchase health insurance before their current policy expires. Maintaining continuous coverage helps avoid gaps in protection and maintain university or visa compliance.

⚠️ Note: Why Buying Health Insurance Early Is Important for UK Students in the USA

  • Avoids last-minute university insurance enrollment
  • Ensures continuous coverage from the first day in the USA
  • Helps meet university waiver requirements on time
  • Protects against high US medical costs from day one

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. 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. 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. Deductible Amount

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

4. Type of Insurance Plan

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

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

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 Are The Steps To Buy Medical Insurance For F1 Students?

1 Check With Your University or College
Ask if they provide the best health insurance for international students in the USA and whether enrollment in their plan is mandatory.
2 Understand Your University’s Requirements
If your university offers a plan, determine whether you must purchase it or if you can choose an alternative plan that meets their standards.
3 Compare Alternative Plans
If alternatives are allowed, compare the most affordable and best-rated F1 student health insurance options on American Visitor Insurance.
4 Evaluate Coverage and Costs
Compare university-offered insurance with alternative plans, considering price, coverage benefits, deductibles, co-pays, and exclusions.
5 Include Dependents If Needed
If you have dependents, review options for F2 visa health insurance and J2 visa medical insurance to ensure everyone is covered.
6 Choose the Best Plan
Select the F1 student health insurance that fits your budget, meets your healthcare needs, and complies with university requirements.
7 Complete Enrollment
After purchasing your plan, keep all documents you receive by email, as they may be needed for enrollment verification at your university.

Which Is the Popular Health Insurance for International Students in USA 2026?

The following are some of the best international student health insurance plans in USA. If you want a side-by-side comparison of the most popular and highly rated options, explore our top 5 best health insurance plans for international students in the 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 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 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

How International Student Insurance Works?

  1. You purchase a student insurance plan online
  2. Visit a doctor or hospital (preferably in-network)
  3. Pay the deductible (if applicable)
  4. The insurance pays eligible expenses as per policy terms
  5. Claims are processed directly or reimbursed
A Working Example of Using Patriot Exchange Program Insurance

Below is a sample scenario to help students understand how Patriot Exchange insurance works in practice while studying abroad.

In this example:

  • Medical Bill: $25,100
  • Deductible: $100
  • Selected Policy Maximum: $50,000

Coverage Overview

Item Details
Insurance Coverage Up to $50,000
Deductible $100 per certificate period
Medical Expenses (Claimed) $25,100

How the Claim Is Settled

After the insured pays the $100 deductible, the Patriot Exchange plan applies its standard cost-sharing structure:

  • The plan pays 80% of the first $5,000 of eligible medical expenses.
  • Then it pays 100% thereafter up to the policy maximum.

Since the total medical bill is $25,100, the insured is responsible for 20% of the first $5,000, which equals $1,000.

All remaining eligible charges are paid by the insurance company. Because the policy maximum is $50,000, the full claim amount fits within the allowed limit.

Final Calculation

Expense Type Amount Billed Amount Insurance Pays Amount Student Pays
Deductible $100 $0 $100
Hospital Room Rent $9,000 $8,000 $1,000 (20% of first $5k)
Surgery $15,000 $15,000 $0
X-ray & Diagnostics $1,000 $1,000 $0
Total $25,100 $24,000 $1,100 (Deductible $100 + Coinsurance $1,000)

Summary for Students

In this example, the student pays a total of $1,100 ($100 deductible + $1,000 coinsurance), and Patriot Exchange covers the remaining $24,000. This demonstrates how the plan protects students from major medical expenses while studying abroad.

Disclaimer

We have made every effort to ensure the information above is accurate and current. However, policy terms, benefits, and limits may change periodically. Please refer to the official Patriot Exchange policy brochure for exact details.

Can I Buy Any Insurance Plan If My University Doesn’t Have Restrictions?

Yes. If your university does not require enrollment in a specific student health insurance plan or does not impose minimum coverage requirements, you are generally free to choose the insurance plan that best fits your needs and budget.

You can select either a student insurance plan or a travel medical insurance plan depending on what coverage you prefer.

Cheapest Student Insurance Plans (Recommended for F1 Students)

  • Student Journey Lite – Budget-friendly student insurance for international students studying in the USA. The Student Journey Lite insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $30 per month ($360 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.
  • StudentSecure Smart – Comprehensive international student insurance plan with benefits such as mental health coverage, pre-existing condition protection, and medical evacuation. The StudentSecure Smart insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $32 per month ($372 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.

Alternative Student Health Insurance Options

If you prefer private or non-university health insurance plan instead of student-specific plans, you can consider these popular options:

  • Patriot America Lite – Emergency medical insurance for international students studying in the USA. The Patriot America Lite insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $44 per month ($513 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.
  • Atlas America – Comprehensive travel medical insurance for students and visitors traveling to the USA. The Atlas America insurance cost for a 20-year-old student starts from $50 per month ($590 per year). The plan can be purchased on a monthly or yearly basis.

Do I Need Health Insurance for an F1 Visa?

The U.S. Department of State does not mandate specific health insurance requirements for F1 visa holders. However, most U.S. universities require international students to have valid health insurance as a condition of enrolment and registration.

F-1 student health insurance requirements for UK students in USA are set by individual schools. check with your school to see what coverage is mandatory to have, if any, you can find a plan that fits both your needs and the school’s requirements on American visitor insurance. Some universities require students to enrol in a school-sponsored insurance plan, while others allow students to purchase a private international student health insurance plan that meets the school’s coverage criteria.

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 F1 students to have health insurance coverage for 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.

International Student Insurance Payment Options in the U.S.
  • 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.
Payment Period Highlights Advantage Disadvantage
Monthly Monthly payments, with recurring installments Flexible with small installments Overall higher total cost, and time consuming, Student must remember to pay on time to keep student medical insurance active.
Yearly Pay the full premium up front (for entire policy period usually one year) Cheaper than monthly payments, no risk of losing coverage by oversight Larger upfront cost

Application Methods: Online vs Paper

Method Description Speed Highlight
Online Application Complete online application and payment on American Visitor Insurance Fast — Policy issued instantly Most common and use Credit card
Paper Application Complete paper forms and submit documents by post Slower — Takes time (few days) to process Can pay by Check

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 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 international students applying from outside the United States and those seeking a simple, reliable, non-digital, or assisted way to purchase student medical insurance.

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

Diplomat America & Diplomat LongTerm Insurance (Global Underwriters)

Best for: International students participating in intercollegiate sports
  • Designed specifically for student athletes
  • Allows students to select a sports rider based on risk level: Low, Medium, or High
  • Maximum benefit payout: $20,000 per covered sports-related injury or illness
Diplomat LongTerm Insurance
  • Can be extended
  • Offers worldwide coverage
  • Minimum purchase period: 90 days
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Diplomat America
  • Cannot be extended or renewed
  • Offers coverage in the USA
  • Minimum purchase period: 15 days
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Sports Rider Options – Diplomat Insurance

Coverage level Monthly Add-On Cost Sports covered
Low Option $12 Ballet, Baseball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Diving, Equestrian, Fencing, Field Hockey, Golf, Horse Polo, Water Polo, Rowing, Softball, Surfing, Swimming, Tennis, Track & Field, Volleyball
Middle Option $26 Basketball, Competitive Cycling (Road, Track, CX), Ice Hockey, Inline Skating (with helmet/proper gear), Lacrosse, Martial Arts/Karate, Modern Pentathlon, Skiing (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Downhill), Ski Jumping and Wrestling
High Option $80 Football (No Division I), Gymnastics, Rugby (No Division I) and Soccer
👉 View Diplomat Insurance sports rider options and adventure sports travel insurance coverage.

Patriot Exchange Insurance (IMG)

Best for: Budget-conscious students and high school sports teams
  • More affordable student insurance compared to Diplomat plans
  • Patriot Exchange insurance cost starts at $73 per month (young adult, without rider)
  • Coverage up to $250,000 with a $100 deductible
  • Does NOT cover varsity sports regulated by:
    • National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
    • National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
  • Varsity sports coverage is available only with the Add-on Rider (not the Adventure Sports Rider)
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Student Secure Insurance (WorldTrips)

Best for: Flexible sports and recreational activity coverage
  • Student Secure Select and Elite plans cover:
    • Intercollegiate sports
    • Interscholastic sports
    • Intramural sports
    • Club sports
  • Covers sports-related medical expenses up to $5,000 per injury or illness
  • All four plan levels (Smart, Budget, Select, Elite) include coverage for:
    • Leisure activities
    • Recreational sports
    • Fitness and entertainment activities
  • Benefits are available up to the plan’s overall maximum, depending on the selected plan level
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Group travel insurance

Student Sports Group Travel Insurance

Best health insurance for international student Athletes.

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What Are the Best International Health Insurance Options for Students?

Student insurance USA

Why Choose American Visitor Insurance for Student Health 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: American Visitor Insurance offers top-rated health insurance options for F1 visa holders, OPT students, J1 visa holders, and visitors, with coverage from reputed insurers such as IMG and WorldTrips
  • Affordable Pricing: The platform provides budget-friendly plans with customizable deductibles, maximum coverage limits, and optional add-ons. These are often more economical than many university-sponsored plans while still meeting insurance requirements.
  • Easy Online Comparison & Purchase: American Visitor Insurance allows you to compare student insurance and buy online with a easy secure online purchase process which then provides instant confirmation.
  • Expert Guidance & Support: Licensed insurance agents provide free support to help you choose the right plan and understand university waiver requirements and policy details.
  • Covers Unique Needs: Specialized plans are available for students on OPT, mental health coverage, maternity, sports injuries, and more, with flexible coverage start dates either 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, American Visitor Insurance has a 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 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.

Why Should UK Students Compare Health Insurance?

Most international student health insurance plans seem similar on first impressions. However, while they have many benefits in common and the premium is also similar, different student insurance plans do have some additional benefits or perhaps some specific constraints. In order to choose the best plan based on the UK students requirements and to get sufficient coverage from the health insurance plan for students from UK, it is important to compare different features available in the best health insurance for UK students in USA:
The following are important factors for comparing cheapest health insurance for UK students plans:

  • Policy Maximum: This is the maximum amount on the insurance plan which normally ranges from $50,000 up to $1,000,000. This is the maximum a policy can cover in case of an extreme emergency as per the policy guidelines and conditions mentioned in the policy.
  • Deductible: The deductible options can range anywhere from $50 up to $5000 between the plans. A larger deductible means lower premium price and vice versa. Picking a large deductible thus low premium by choosing a comprehensive plan is usually recommended, as most of the comprehensive plans have an one time deductible and is cost effective.
  • Pre existing condition coverage: This is very important benefit factor as many customers need this benefit. The student plans have a minimum 6 month waiting period for coverage of pre-existing conditions.
  • Coverage for mental illness and drug abuse: This coverage is required by most of the universities.
  • Cancellation and Renewability: Each plan have their unique cancellation and renew-ability policies. It is important to pay attention to it if there is any ambiguity while booking insurance initially.
  • Sports and other unique activities: Some of the plans provide coverage for intercollegiate and interscholastic sports...

Based on these factors, American Visitor Insurance provides an excellent compare student medical insurance facility where getting quotes as per students’ requirements. Once the required information is entered in the form, a summary of popular student insurance plans are displayed which can be compared.

Can UK Students Waive School Health Insurance by Buying a Private Plan?

Yes. UK students studying in the USA may be able to waive their university’s health insurance plan if they purchase a private international student health insurance policy that meets the school’s waiver requirements.

University waiver compliance allows students to choose an out of campus insurance by showing proof of equivalent international student health insurance. The private plan must usually offer these coverages:

  • A policy maximum of $100,000 or more
  • A deductible of $500 or less
  • Inpatient and outpatient mental health coverage
  • Coverage for maternity and pre-existing conditions (as required by the school)
  • Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Access to a PPO network of U.S. healthcare providers

Universities provide a waiver form outlining the minimum required benefits. Submit this form along with your insurance proof by the school’s deadline.

⚠️ Important: Waiver requirements vary by university. Always review your school’s insurance guidelines before purchasing a private student health insurance plan.

Not on an F1 Visa? Please Review These Other Visa Categories

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OPT Status within F1 visa

Insurance plans for students on OPT status, OPT student insurance.

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Medical insurance for students on vocational training.

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Health insurance for international students in USA FAQ’s

1. Why do international students in the US need health insurance?

International medical insurance for students studying abroad is essential for covering medical expenses during your stay in the USA. It ensures you have access to necessary healthcare services and protects you from high healthcare costs.

2. Can I use my UK health insurance in the USA?

In most cases, UK health insurance does not provide coverage in the USA. International students are required to purchase a dedicated student health insurance plan for the US that meets the specific requirements of their educational institution.

3. What happens if I need to visit the UK during my studies?

A good medical insurance for students studying abroad should offer coverage during visits to your home country. Confirm this aspect in your policy and ensure it meets your needs for both U.S. and international travel.

4. How can I compare different student health insurance plans for international students in the UK?

International students can compare student health insurance plans on American Visitor Insurance online and get guidance from licensed insurance advisors at 877-340-7910 to make an informed decision. Students should consider factors such as coverage limits, premiums, deductibles, and additional benefits while making a decision.

5. Do UK students need to buy health insurance for their U.S. studies?

Yes, UK students studying in the U.S. are strongly encouraged to buy health insurance for students studying abroad, even though it’s not a legal requirement by U.S. immigration authorities. Most universities mandate valid student health insurance for enrollment, and students are often auto-enrolled in expensive school plans.

However, you can often waive this if you buy a comparable private student health insurance plan. Since U.S. healthcare is costly, having medical insurance for students studying abroad ensures that UK students are financially protected from unexpected medical issues during their academic journey.

ECFMG & J-1 Visa Health Insurance Requirements for International Medical Graduates

Understand mandatory insurance rules for ECFMG-sponsored J-1 physicians and compare compliant health insurance plans.

Compare ECFMG-Approved Plans »

Best Health Insurance for International Students in USA

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Going to the US to Study?

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International Student health insurance in USA

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Best Student Health Insurance UK from USA

Which Is the Best Health Insurance for International Students in the UK?

International students in the UK often need to consider specific insurance options to ensure they are adequately covered during their stay. While the NHS provides healthcare services, it might be beneficial to have additional health insurance. This can cover additional medical expenses, repatriation, and other services not covered by the NHS. International students may benefit from travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other travel-related issues. UK student insurance covers personal belongings within your accommodation, protecting against theft, fire, and other risks.

Student Personal Liability Insurance can cover legal expenses if you accidentally cause injury to someone or damage their property. When choosing health insurance for international students in UK, it's essential to carefully review the policy terms and coverage on American Visitor Insurance to ensure it meets your specific needs. Always compare UK international student insurance quotes from different insurance providers to find the best coverage for your situation.

How Much Does Health Insurance for US Students Abroad Cost in 2026?

The US student abroad cost ranges from $26 to $289 per month. The price depends on the factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance.

The best student health insurance abroad cost per month for an international student aged 20 years.

How much does health insurance for US student abroad costs?

The US student abroad cost ranges from $26 to $289 per month. The price depends on the factors such as student's age, coverage duration, medical benefits, deductible, and co-insurance.

The best student health insurance abroad cost per month for an international student aged 20 years.

Insurance Plans Policy maximum Deductible Cost
StudentSecure Smart WorldTrips $200,000 $0 $26
Patriot Exchange Program IMG $50,000 $250 $39
StudentSecure Budget WorldTrips $500,000 $0 $47
Student Health Advantage Standard IMG $500,000 $250 $82
StudentSecure Select WorldTrips $1,000,000 $0 $80
Student Health Advantage Platinum IMG $1,000,000 $25 $246
Study Abroad Student Insurance BCBS Unlimited Coverage $0 $289

Source:American Visitor Insurance®

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Is It Too Late to Buy Student Travel Insurance for UK?

It's never too late to buy student travel insurance for UK. The only time it is too late is if a person is already sick or injured. As long as the student is healthy, you can purchase a UK student travel insurance to have coverage for future accident or illness. Compare and buy the best student travel insurance for UK.

U.S. Student Trip Cancellation Insurance

Student travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage is also called trip cancellation insurance or trip interruption insurance and offers coverage to protect students against financial losses in case they need to cancel or interrupt their travel plans for covered reasons. Student trip cancellation insurance is useful for US students who are studying outside the USA or participate in international educational trips. This Student trip cancellation insurance helps reimburse non-refundable expenses incurred for the trip, such as airfare, accommodations, and other prepaid costs.
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US student trip cancellation Insurance