How to Get Cheap Health Insurance for Students in USA?
Almost every university offers insurance plans to its students. They generally do this by having partnerships with insurance companies. The average health insurance plans given to students by universities cost around $1500-$2000; this might be costly for many international and domestic students as well.
Many universities take up more money than needed for a normal health insurance plan. This is a huge drawback for students who come to the U.S. to study and have no option but to spend a large amount of money than required.
However, some institutions allow their students to choose an external insurance provider as long as they meet the requirements laid out by the university. There are much cheaper health insurance plans which are included right below.
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Insurance Under the Parents
For U.S. citizens under the age of 26, their parents can keep them on their insurance plan. However, some insurance plans are state-specific so, students who are going out-of-state for studies might need an insurance plan of their own.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health insurance, it is only applicable for U.S. citizens/lawful permanent residents who fall under the eligibility criteria in their respective states.
Beneficiaries should be residents of the state they plan to receive the aid from, have low-income, is under the age of 65. They also provide insurance for children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
Students who earn less can apply for Medicaid.
Employer-Sponsored Insurance
Some employers provide health insurance as a benefit to their employees. Students who are working part-time or full-time can qualify depending on their respective employer’s policies.
Student Blue
Student Blue is a part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield specifically for university students in North Carolina requiring health insurance.
Marketplace Health Plan
Students can enroll in a Marketplace health insurance plan. They can shop over there for specific coverages according to their requirements. It is only eligible for a resident of the United States.
International Medical Group Insurance (IMG)
IMG provide health insurance to international students on an F1 visa and meets J1 visa requirements. Students who are from the U.S studying abroad can also use their insurance plans in Schengen visa countries. Their long-and short-term plans are budget friendly, and specifically made for international students. They provide COVID-19 coverage as well.
They offer three plans:
- The Patriot Exchange Program
The Patriot Exchange Program offers medical coverage for students, families and groups while studying abroad. Most of this plan’s options are designed to meet the U.S. J1 and J2 visa travel insurance requirements.
- Student Health Advantage
The Student Health Advantage is made for students or scholars participating in a sponsored study abroad program. This plan meets student visa requirements, includes benefits for maternity, mental health, organized sports, and international emergency care.
- Student Health Advantage Platinum
The Student Health Advantage Platinum is made for students or scholars participating in a sponsored study abroad program. This plan meets student visa requirements, includes benefits for maternity, mental health, organized sports, and international emergency care. It’s the same as Student Health Advantage but offers double the maximum coverage.
American Visitor Insurance
American Visitor Insurance provides international students with cheap and proper health insurance services that also cover COVID-19. Many F1 student health insurances does not cover COVID-19 but their services give the Coronavirus coverage as well. This is only available for F1/F2 and J1/J2 visa holders and their dependents.
International Student Insurance (ISI)
International Student Insurance is a specialized insurance agency which sells health and travel insurances to students from other countries. All the insurance plans they offer are catered towards the insurance requirements set by schools and governments.
StudentSecure Insurance by HCCMIS
StudentSecure offers insurance to international students and scholars studying abroad. They offer four levels of coverage: Elite, Select, Budget, and Smart. Their insurance coverage meets the requirements of most schools, universities, and governments (including J-1 visa requirements).
Liason Student Travel Medical Insurance-Seven Corners
The Liason Student Plan is for full-time students, faculty member, or a scholar between the ages 12-64 years, who is engaged in full-time educational or research activities while residing outside their home country.
The Liason Student Plus is their other insurance plan for students and faculty who need protection for COVID-19.
It is always recommended to first check if the insurance company provides healthcare services that match your school/university requirements. After you have found a list of suitable insurance providers, compare their prices, renewability/duration of the insurance and check if there are any other additional services they provide.
Keep in track if the insurance providers have good credibility and mail them if you have any inquiries. Make sure the services you get is 100% worth the money you invested and help you in any medical need.
