F-1 Visa Health Insurance: What You Must Know
Student health insurance in the USA is one of the most critical requirements for F-1 visa holders. Unlike many countries where a national healthcare system covers everyone, the United States relies primarily on private health insurance, and as an international student, you’re expected to have adequate coverage throughout your stay.
While the F-1 visa itself does not mandate a specific federal health insurance requirement, nearly every U.S. university enforces its own health insurance policy. Failing to meet these requirements can result in enrollment holds, late fees, or even visa complications.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory for F-1 Students?
Technically, U.S. immigration law does not explicitly require F-1 visa holders to carry health insurance. However, in practice, it’s effectively mandatory because:
- Most universities require it. The vast majority of U.S. colleges and universities require all students: including international students: to have health insurance as a condition of enrollment.
- Your I-20 sponsor expects it. The SEVP-certified school that issued your I-20 form has a vested interest in ensuring you maintain your student status, which includes meeting health and wellness requirements.
- Healthcare costs are astronomical. A single emergency room visit in the U.S. can cost $5,000–$10,000 or more. Without insurance, you risk financial catastrophe.
University-Sponsored Health Insurance Plans (SHIPs)
Most U.S. universities offer a Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Here’s what you need to know:
How SHIPs Work
- You are automatically enrolled in the university SHIP unless you actively waive out.
- The premium is added to your tuition bill, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 per year.
- Coverage usually includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health services, and sometimes dental and vision.
Advantages of SHIPs
- Designed specifically for students at your university.
- Often accepted at the campus health center and nearby providers.
- Meets all university insurance requirements by default.
- Typically includes coverage for mental health services.
Disadvantages of SHIPs
- Can be more expensive than external plans.
- Limited provider networks outside the university area.
- May not cover you during breaks or summer if you’re not enrolled.
Waiving University Insurance: Is It Worth It?
Many universities allow you to waive the SHIP if you can prove you have comparable coverage from an external provider. To successfully waive, your alternative plan typically must meet these minimums:
| Requirement | Typical Minimum |
|---|---|
| Maximum benefit | $100,000–$500,000+ |
| Deductible | $500 or less |
| Co-insurance | 80/20 or better |
| Mental health coverage | Required |
| Repatriation of remains | $25,000+ |
| Medical evacuation | $50,000+ |
| Prescription drug coverage | Required |
Before purchasing an external plan, always check your university’s specific waiver requirements. Use our insurance comparison tool to find plans that meet common SHIP waiver criteria.
Types of Health Insurance for F-1 Students
1. University SHIP (Student Health Insurance Plan)
Best for students who want hassle-free, full coverage that automatically meets university requirements.
2. Private International Student Insurance
Plans from providers like ISO, GeoBlue, or IMG designed specifically for international students. Often cheaper than SHIPs while still meeting waiver requirements.
3. ACA Marketplace Plans
F-1 visa holders are generally not eligible for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans or subsidies. Some exceptions exist for students who have been in the U.S. for 5+ years and meet the “substantial presence test.”
4. Travel Health Insurance
Short-term travel insurance is not recommended as your primary coverage. It typically has low coverage limits and may not meet university requirements.
What Should Your F-1 Insurance Plan Cover?
At a minimum, your health insurance as an F-1 student should include:
- Inpatient and outpatient care: Hospital stays and doctor visits.
- Emergency services: Including ambulance transport.
- Prescription medications: Key for ongoing treatments.
- Mental health services: Increasingly required by universities.
- Repatriation and medical evacuation: Critical for international students.
- Maternity care: If applicable.
Understanding deductibles and co-payments is also key to avoid surprise costs.
Costs of Health Insurance for F-1 Students
Expect to pay between $500 and $3,500 per year depending on the plan:
- Budget international plans: $500–$1,000/year (basic coverage, higher deductibles)
- Mid-range plans: $1,000–$2,000/year (good balance of cost and coverage)
- University SHIPs: $1,500–$3,500/year (full, university-approved)
Looking for affordable options? Check our guide on the cheapest health insurance options for international students.
Common Mistakes F-1 Students Make
- Assuming home country insurance is enough. In most cases, it won’t meet U.S. university requirements.
- Missing the waiver deadline. If you don’t waive in time, you’ll be auto-enrolled and charged for the SHIP.
- Choosing the cheapest plan without checking coverage. Low premiums often mean high deductibles and limited networks.
- Not understanding the network. Out-of-network care in the U.S. can cost 3-5x more than in-network care.
- Forgetting about coverage gaps. Make sure you’re covered during summer breaks and OPT/CPT periods.
Health Insurance During OPT and CPT
Your F-1 status continues during Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT). However, your university SHIP may not cover you during these periods, especially after graduation.
During OPT, you may need to:
- Purchase a private international health insurance plan.
- Enroll in your employer’s health plan (if offered).
- Find a short-term health plan designed for OPT students.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance?
Going without health insurance in the USA is risky:
- Financial risk: A hospital stay can cost $10,000+ per day.
- University penalties: Enrollment holds, inability to register for classes.
- Visa implications: While not directly a visa violation, failure to comply with university requirements can affect your student status.
Take Action: Get Covered Today
Don’t leave your health coverage to chance. As an F-1 visa student, having the right health insurance protects both your health and your academic future in the United States.
👉 Compare student health insurance plans to find the best option for your F-1 visa requirements. Our comparison tool helps you match plans to your university’s specific waiver criteria.