Student Health Insurance in the USA: Everything You Need to Know
Navigating health insurance in the USA is one of the biggest challenges for international students. The American healthcare system is notoriously expensive and complex.
Is Health Insurance Required?
Federal Requirements
There is no federal mandate requiring international students to have health insurance. However, the J-1 visa requires it, and virtually all universities require it for F-1 students.
University Requirements
Nearly all US universities require international students to have health insurance. Most schools:
- Automatically enroll you in their Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP)
- Add the insurance cost to your tuition bill
- Allow you to waive the SHIP if you have comparable coverage
Understanding US Healthcare Costs
| Service | Average Cost (Without Insurance) |
|---|---|
| Doctor visit (GP) | $150-$300 |
| Emergency room visit | $1,500-$3,000+ |
| 3-day hospital stay | $30,000-$60,000 |
Types of Student Health Insurance
1. University-Sponsored Plans (SHIP)
- Cost: $125-$375/month
- Pros: Meets all requirements, easy enrollment
- Cons: Often expensive
2. Marketplace/Private Insurance Plans
- Cost: $100-$300/month
- Pros: Often cheaper, wider networks
- Cons: May not meet waiver requirements
3. International Student Insurance Plans
- Cost: $40-$150/month
- Pros: Affordable, designed for international students
- Cons: May not be accepted by all universities
Tips for Saving Money
- Apply for waiver early: can save $1,000+/year
- Use campus health centers: often free for enrolled students
- Choose in-network providers: out-of-network care costs 2-5x more
- Use generic medications
What to Do If You Get Sick
- Non-emergency: Campus health center or in-network doctor
- Urgent: Urgent care center (much cheaper than ER)
- Emergency: Call 911 or go to the nearest ER
Ready to compare student health insurance plans for the USA? Get a quote now.