Health Insurance Basics for Students Abroad
When choosing to study abroad, whether it be for a semester or a year, a major requirement of nearly all host countries is that incoming students bring their own private health insurance coverage.
Finding health insurance that will not break the bank but still keep you healthy and injury-free while abroad can be a daunting task, even in light of internet advancements today. The following guide will help you learn the fundamentals of health insurance for students going abroad, as well as offer some advice on how to compare health insurance.
Image by Lauren Nelson
Where to Start: Private Health Insurance Comparison
First off, what should you look for in a health insurance policy? There are a number of factors involved, making the price difficult to determine (figure anywhere from $20-150 per month, as a starting point). These factors include: age, current and past health conditions, country of residence, destination, deductible, coverage limit for medical expenses, and add-ons desired (such as dental insurance, vision care, medication coverage, etc.).
Many of these insurance options also offer extensive coverage for emergencies and travel reimbursements. In light of what the costs could potentially rise to, the monthly cost for coverage is quite low in comparison.
If you are considering a “study abroad” program, then you are probably already aware of the number of sites on the internet that are able to help you find an insurance policy fit for your journey abroad, but which ones will find the most cost-effective options for you?
International Student Health Insurance
For many students, International Services, Inc. is one of the best comparison sites for those studying in the United States. It offers a broad range of selections based on your own coverage needs. Another useful site would be the International Student Organization, which is a US-based insurance company for students studying in the US.
For those seeking other destinations abroad, 1Cover Direct Insurance is tremendously helpful, with three different tiers of insurance options and over one million customers to back them up. They are the largest insurance provider of online travel insurance based in Australia, and their coverage choices are quite affordable for students, making them a viable option for insurance regardless of which country you’re going to study in.
So, when it comes to study abroad, your tuition may be pricey, but that doesn’t mean your health insurance while abroad has to be. With so many other expenses to be concerned about, finding a low-cost provider with decent coverage options may seem daunting, but a quick browse through the websites listed above will prove otherwise. Staying healthy and safe should be the highest priority, after all, and these quality companies are excellent providers of this peace of mind for your time studying abroad.
This article is opinion only and should not be taken as financial advice.
Filed Under: Health Insurance
