International Medical Group (IMG)
IMG Patriot Exchange Program
J-1 visa compliant student health insurance with UnitedHealthcare PPO and customisable coverage from $50K to $5M
✓ Visa Compliant
31 days to 64 years Age Limit
Last updated: April 27, 2026
What's Covered
Benefits and coverage details.
Included
Highly customisable — choose your medical max ($50K to $5M) and deductible ($0 to $500)
$5 student health center copay — affordable on-campus care
Designed to meet U.S. Department of State J-1 visa requirements
UnitedHealthcare Options PPO network for direct billing across the U.S.
Renewable up to 48 months — covers a full master's or PhD program
Not Covered
Pre-existing conditions limited to $1,500 lifetime — restrictive if you have chronic needs
12-month waiting period for any pre-existing-condition coverage
Outpatient mental health capped at $500 — many universities now require more
Plan is not fully ACA-compliant — some schools may reject the waiver
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about IMG Patriot Exchange Program
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, $250,000–$500,000 is the best balance of cost and protection. Short-term programs may use $100,000. The $5,000,000 tier offers maximum peace of mind for high-risk activities or universities with strict requirements. Note: U.S. healthcare is expensive — going below $250,000 is risky for serious accidents.
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.
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