- US F‑1 visa approvals depend on proving genuine student intent, showing credible funding matching the I‑20, and presenting a strong return‑to‑India plan.
- Interviews focus on study plans, university fit, academic readiness, financial proof, and post‑graduation goals, so answers must be concise and fully consistent with your I‑20 and DS‑160.
- Chances improve when you state exact costs and funding splits, carry complete proof documents, and answer confidently while staying calm under follow‑up questions.
- Health Insurance Requirements for Different U.S. Visas
- Types of Health Insurance Plans for International Students
- University Health Insurance Requirements for International Students
- Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan
- Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Heading off to study in the United States is exciting, but the healthcare system there is unlike what you may know. Medical bills can climb into the thousands, and without the right insurance, you could face large out-of-pocket costs or delays in registering for classes. This guide explains key insurance terms, highlights the benefits you need, and offers practical tips to avoid serious financial mistakes and have a good quality of life in the U.S.
Health Insurance Requirements for Different U.S. Visas
Health insurance requirements for international students vary depending on the type of visa you hold. Some visa types may only require insurance at the university level, while others are mandated by the U.S. government. For example, F-1 visa holders usually follow university-specific health insurance rules rather than government regulations. Below is a detailed guide for each visa category.
F-1 & F-2 Visa Health Insurance Requirements
The U.S. government does not mandate health insurance for F-1 or F-2 visa holders. However, most universities require international students to have coverage. Even if your program does not make insurance compulsory, medical care in the U.S. can be extremely expensive. Without insurance, paying for unexpected treatments out-of-pocket may significantly impact your budget and ability to focus on studies.
Estimated Costs:
- F-1 Students: Monthly premiums typically range from $30 to $124 (approximately ₹2,500 to ₹10,500), depending on factors like age, coverage duration, and benefits such as mental health, dental, and pre-existing conditions coverage.
- F-2 Visa Holders: Annual premiums can range from $400 to $1,500 (approximately ₹33,000 to ₹1,25,000), influenced by the level of coverage chosen.
Popular Insurance Providers:
- IMG (International Medical Group): Offers plans like Student Journey Lite starting at $30/month(approximately ₹2,500/month), providing coverage up to $400,000.
- ISO (International Student Insurance): Provides plans such as Silver, Gold, Compass PPO, ISO Secure, and Platinum, catering to various needs.
- Trawick International: Known for plans like Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, suitable for F-2 visa dependents.
J-1 & J-2 Visa Health Insurance Requirements
All J-1 and J-2 visa holders must maintain health insurance while in the U.S. The insurance policy must meet government-mandated minimum standards, including:
- Medical benefits: Coverage of at least $100,000 (₹8,300,000) per accident or illness
- Repatriation of remains: Minimum coverage of $25,000 (₹2,075,000)
- Medical evacuation: Coverage of $50,000 (₹4,150,000) for transporting the exchange visitor to their home country if needed
- Deductible: Cannot exceed $500 (₹41,500) per accident or illness
These requirements ensure that exchange visitors are adequately protected in case of serious medical emergencies while studying in the U.S.
Health Insurance for Other Visa Types
Family members or dependents may also have specific insurance requirements depending on the visa type. For example, J-2 dependents of J-1 visa holders must follow the same insurance standards as the primary visa holder.
It’s essential to confirm your coverage requirements with your U.S. university to ensure compliance. Additionally, services like Shorelight can assist with visa preparation, including F-1 visa guidance, and help you meet all insurance obligations for international students.
Types of Health Insurance Plans for International Students
International students in the U.S. have several health insurance options, each varying in cost, coverage, and eligibility. Understanding these differences is essential to select a plan that meets both visa and university requirements while staying within budget.
| Plan Type | Typical Monthly Premiums(USD / INR) | Deductible & Co-pays | Key Coverage | Major Exclusions | Eligibility / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University-Sponsored SHIP | $200–$350 (₹16,600–₹29,050) | Deductible: $250–$500; Co-pay: $20–$50 per visit | On-campus clinics, hospital care, preventive care, emergency care | Limited customization; may not cover off-campus providers outside network | Mandatory for many universities; automatic enrollment; waiver sometimes available |
| Private International Student Plans | $120–$250 (₹9,950–₹20,750) | Deductible: $300–$700; Co-pay: $15–$40 per visit | Hospital & doctor visits, emergency care, mental health, preventive services | Pre-existing conditions may be limited; plan must meet university waiver requirements | Flexible; can be used to waive SHIP if approved by university |
| Short-Term / Travel Insurance | $50–$150 (₹4,150–₹12,450) | Deductible: $500–$1,000; Co-pay varies | Emergency care, basic doctor visits | Pre-existing conditions, mental health, preventive care; often fail university waiver standards | Only for coverage gaps, OPT transitions, or short trips; not primary plan |
| ACA Marketplace Plans | $200–$400 (₹16,600–₹33,200) | Deductible: $1,000–$3,000; Co-pay: $20–$50 | Comprehensive coverage, preventive services, emergency care, mental health | Subsidies often not available for international students; state-dependent networks | Only available to “lawfully present” visa holders; eligibility varies by state |
| Employer-Sponsored / Assistantship Plans | $100–$250 (₹8,300–₹20,750, sometimes partially covered by employer) | Deductible: $200–$500; Co-pay: $10–$40 | Full employee coverage including dependents, preventive care, mental health | Limited if role does not include benefits | Available to graduate assistants, research or teaching assistants; check HR for eligibility |
| Medicaid / CHIP | Free or very low cost | Very low or zero deductible; minimal co-pays | Primary & preventive care, hospitalization, emergency care | Usually excludes non-eligible visa holders | Available only in select states; most international students do not qualify; check state-specific rules |
University-Sponsored Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
Most U.S. universities offer a proprietary Student Health Insurance Plan designed specifically for their students. SHIP advantages include easy integration with campus health services, automatic alignment with academic calendars, and no risk of waiver rejection. However, these plans often carry the highest premiums, typically 50–100% more than private alternatives and offer limited flexibility in benefit customization.
Top Short-Term Insurance Providers:
- UnitedHealthcare Short-Term Plans
- Pivot Health
- Everest Short-Term Medical
- National General Short-Term Plans
- IHC Group Short-Term Health Plans
Private International Student Insurance Plans
Private plans are tailored by insurers to meet international student needs. They generally feature lower premiums (30–60% less than SHIP), customizable benefit packages, and direct insurer relationships. These plans require careful verification to ensure they meet all university waiver criteria, such as minimum coverage levels, network adequacy, mental health parity, and may involve more complex enrollment and claims processes.
Top Private Insurance Providers:
- ISO Insurance
- IMG (International Medical Group)
- GeoBlue
- Compass Student Insurance
- International Student Insurance (ISI)
Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term or travel insurance offers temporary coverage during enrollment gaps, OPT transitions, or short trips home. They are affordable but usually exclude pre-existing conditions, mental health, and preventive care, and often don’t meet university waiver requirements. Best used only for coverage gaps, not as a primary student plan..
Top Short-Term Insurance Providers:
- UnitedHealthcare Short-Term Plans
- Pivot Health
- Everest Short-Term Medical
- National General Short-Term Plans
- IHC Group Short-Term Health Plans
Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace Plans
Although primarily intended for U.S. residents, some international students under F-1 or J-1 visas classified as “lawfully present” may qualify to purchase ACA plans during open enrollment or a qualifying life event. ACA plans offer broad coverage and include preventive services at no extra cost. Subsidies are rarely available to international students due to income and residency requirements.
Top ACA Marketplace Providers:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Kaiser Permanente
- Cigna Health Insurance
- Ambetter Health
- Molina Healthcare
Employer-Sponsored or Assistantship Plans
Graduate assistants, teaching assistants, and research assistants employed by their universities often receive access to employee health insurance plans. These plans can cover dependents and provide robust benefits, sometimes at reduced rates. Eligibility and coverage details vary by university and employment contract, so check with your department’s human resources office for precise information.
Top Employers Offering Health Insurance:
- University of California System
- University of Texas System
- University of Michigan
- University of Washington
- University of Illinois
Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Medicaid and CHIP are state-run programs offering free or low-cost coverage to eligible low-income individuals. Most international students do not qualify due to immigration status and income thresholds, but a few states may have specific provisions allowing certain visa holders to enroll. Always verify state-specific rules before applying.
States with Potential Eligibility:
- California
- New York
- Washington
- Oregon
- Minnesota
University Health Insurance Requirements for International Students
U.S. universities often mandate that international students maintain adequate health insurance coverage during their studies. While specific requirements can vary by institution, common expectations include:
- Mandatory Enrollment or Waiver: Many universities require international students to enroll in the university’s Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) or provide proof of equivalent coverage.
- Minimum Coverage Standards: Institutions may set minimum coverage levels for accident and sickness, prescription drugs, preventive care, and mental health services.
- In-Network Access: Some universities require that insurance plans include access to on-campus health centers or affiliated hospitals to ensure students can access medical services conveniently.
- Automatic Enrollment: At institutions like Purdue University, all international students registered for classes are required to enroll in the university’s SHIP or obtain an approved waiver by the enrollment/waiver deadline. Students who do not take action will be automatically enrolled in the SHIP .
- Proof of Coverage: Students opting for a waiver must submit documentation proving their insurance meets the university’s requirements. This may include policy details, coverage amounts, and provider networks.
- Coverage Duration: Insurance must remain active for the entire academic year, including breaks, unless the university allows exceptions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Health Insurance Plan
Choosing the right health insurance is essential for international students in the U.S. The right plan ensures access to care, meets university and visa requirements, and helps manage costs effectively. This section breaks down the process into simple, actionable steps.
Phase 1: Research and Preparation
Before selecting a plan, take these steps:
- Download Waiver Requirements: Obtain your university’s insurance waiver requirements and note all deadlines.
- Identify Must-Have Benefits: List essential coverage, including mental health, preventive care, and network preferences.
- Set a Budget: Include premiums and potential out-of-pocket costs when planning your finances.
Phase 2: Plan Comparison
Compare different insurance options carefully:
- Gather Plan Details: Collect information on your university’s SHIP plan and at least two private plans.
- Side-by-Side Comparison: Evaluate premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and provider networks.
- Estimate Total Annual Expense: Include out-of-pocket costs to calculate the realistic yearly expense for each plan.
Phase 3: Enrollment and Waiver Submission
Complete enrollment steps to secure coverage and avoid unnecessary charges:
- Enroll Early: Sign up for your chosen plan at least one month before classes begin.
- Submit Waiver Form: Complete the university waiver form with proof of coverage.
- Confirm Approval: Ensure the waiver is approved to prevent automatic enrollment in the campus plan.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Paying attention to these key considerations can help you avoid costly errors, attain full coverage, and make the most of your health insurance plan while studying in the U.S.
- Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute: Late enrollment limits plan options and may result in automatic charges for expensive campus plans.
- Don’t Choose by Price Alone: Low premiums can come with high deductibles or co-pays. Always consider total annual costs.
- Don’t Overlook Mental Health Coverage: Stress and homesickness are real. Ensure your plan includes mental health support.
- Don’t Ignore Provider Networks: Verify that in-network providers are convenient and accessible to get timely care affordably.
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- Comparing plan types such as SHIP, private plans (30–60% cheaper), short-term, and ACA based on coverage, provider networks, and mental health support ensures students pick a compliant and cost-effective option.
- Health insurance plans vary, so always check your plan’s deductible, co-pays, and provider network. A plan with a low deductible but higher premium might suit students who anticipate frequent doctor visits. Being informed helps you save money and avoid unexpected costs while studying abroad.
- Health insurance requirements differ by visa type: J-1/J-2 require minimum coverage of $100,000 (₹8,300,000), $25,000 (₹2,075,000) for repatriation, and $50,000 (₹4,150,000) for medical evacuation; F-1/F-2 usually follow university rules.
At AdmitX, we specialize in transforming study abroad aspirations of Indian students into success stories. Our expert counselors have guided thousands of Indian students to top universities worldwide with comprehensive support from course selection to visa approval.
We provide personalized counseling, university selection guidance, SOP review services, study abroad document templates, free IELTS bootcamp course, scholarship assistance, and visa support services specifically designed for Indian students.
Book your free study abroad counseling session today and take the first step toward your international education journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do Indian students need health insurance in the U.S.?
Most universities require international students to have health insurance, and medical care in the United States can be extremely expensive. Having a proper insurance plan protects students from large out-of-pocket expenses.
What is a claim in health insurance?
A claim is a request submitted to an insurance company to cover part or all of medical expenses, such as a doctor visit, consultation, or X-rays.
What is a premium?
A premium is the monthly fee paid to maintain an active health insurance plan, for example, $150 per month, which guarantees access to doctors and hospitals.
What is a deductible?
A deductible is the amount a student must pay for medical services before the insurance plan begins to cover most costs. For instance, if a deductible is $500, the student pays the first $500 of medical bills each year.
What are co-insurance and co-pays
Co-insurance is the percentage of medical costs a student pays after meeting the deductible, while a co-pay is a fixed fee for a specific service, such as a $25 doctor visit.
Which health insurance plans can international students choose in the U.S.?
International students can choose from University-Sponsored SHIP, Private International Student Plans, Short-Term or Travel Insurance, ACA Marketplace Plans, Employer-Sponsored or Assistantship Plans, and in some states, Medicaid or CHIP.
What are the health insurance requirements for J-1 and J-2 visa holders?
J-1 and J-2 visa holders must maintain health insurance coverage of at least $100,000 per accident or illness, $25,000 for repatriation of remains, and $50,000 for medical evacuation, with a deductible that does not exceed $500 per incident.
Do F-1 and F-2 visa holders have government-mandated insurance requirements?
No, the U.S. government does not mandate health insurance for F-1 or F-2 visa holders, but most universities require students to have coverage to avoid high medical costs.
What exclusions are common in international student health insurance plans?
Common exclusions include pre-existing conditions, certain mental health services, preventive care, and services provided by out-of-network providers, depending on the insurance plan.
How should students select the right health insurance plan?
Students should compare premiums, deductibles, co-pays, coverage options, and provider networks, review their university’s waiver requirements, and submit waiver forms on time to avoid automatic enrollment in a campus plan
