ISO Student Health Insurance vs. IMG Patriot Exchange Program

ISO states that its plans are accepted at over 3,200 U.S. schools, and its brochures allow a premium refund if your school denies your waiver request within 31 days of the plan start date (written proof required). Always check your specific school's waiver criteria — Platinum and Gold have an unlimited annual maximum, while Silver's $400,000 annual cap may not satisfy schools that require an unlimited annual maximum.

For ages 12–24, Silver costs $33/month and is the cheapest, with a $400,000 annual cap and $150,000 per injury or sickness. Gold ($56/month) has an unlimited annual maximum and $300,000 per injury or sickness. Platinum ($87/month) is the most comprehensive, with an unlimited annual maximum, $500,000 per injury or sickness, a lower in-network deductible than Gold ($300 vs $500 per policy year) and unlimited evacuation/repatriation. Rates are higher from age 25 (for example Silver $59/month at 25–29 and $108/month at 30–64).

Yes. ISO plans use the Aetna PPO network: you can see Aetna network doctors and hospitals across the U.S., and you may also choose to be treated outside the network. In-network and out-of-network deductibles differ, so check your plan brochure.

Only ISO Silver covers pre-existing conditions, after 6 months of continuous coverage under the plan. The Gold and Platinum brochures list pre-existing conditions as a general exclusion. If you have ongoing health needs, compare the brochures carefully before choosing a tier.

Both. The plan was designed primarily for J-1 exchange visitors but is also widely used by F-1 students. F-1 students are not legally required to carry insurance under U.S. immigration rules — but most universities require it. Check with your school whether Patriot Exchange meets their waiver criteria.

For most full-time graduate students staying 6–12 months, the $250,000 or $500,000 limit per illness or injury is the best balance of cost and protection. Short-term programs may use $100,000 — the lowest option that meets J-1 visa requirements; the $50,000 option does not. All options sit under a $5,000,000 overall maximum limit. Note: U.S. healthcare is expensive — going below $250,000 is risky for serious accidents. Price example from IMG's online quote (under 25, U.S. included, $500 deductible, October 2026): $51.20/month for the $50,000 option, $59.20/month for $100,000 and $68.00/month for $500,000.

When you visit a UnitedHealthcare Options PPO doctor or hospital, IMG often handles direct billing — you pay only your copay/deductible at the desk. Outside the network, you pay upfront and submit claims. The network covers most major U.S. cities and universities.

Yes. F-2 and J-2 dependents can be added to the policy. Importantly, F-2 or J-2 dependents can also buy their own Patriot Exchange policy independently — even if the F-1 or J-1 main visa holder is on a different plan.