Studying in the United States can be an exciting and life-changing experience, but it also comes with responsibilities—especially when it comes to your health. Most universities, including Arizona State University and Rowan University, require international students to have valid health insurance coverage during their studies.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the best student health insurance plans in the USA for international students, including how to choose the right plan, average costs, and tips to save money.
Why International Students Need Health Insurance
Healthcare in the U.S. can be expensive. A simple doctor visit or emergency treatment can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. That’s why most universities make it mandatory for international students to have insurance. Health insurance helps:
- Cover doctor visits and hospital stays
- Pay for medications and lab tests
- Protect you from unexpected medical bills
- Provide access to better care when needed
University Health Insurance vs. Private Plans
Most U.S. universities offer school-sponsored health plans for their students. For example:
- Arizona State University provides the ASU Student Health Insurance Plan, which covers on-campus and off-campus care.
- Rowan University requires full-time international students to enroll in their official student health plan unless they show proof of other coverage.
While university plans are convenient, they can be expensive. That’s why many students explore private insurance plans that may offer better rates or flexible options.
Best Private Health Insurance Options for International Students
Here are some of the most trusted providers that offer health insurance plans for international students:
- ISO Student Health Insurance – Affordable plans tailored for F-1 visa students
- IMG Global Student Health – Offers comprehensive coverage with flexible deductibles
- International Student Insurance (ISI) – Multiple plan levels, fast online enrollment
- Compass Student Insurance – Known for strong coverage and fast claims processing
These plans are accepted by many U.S. universities and offer 24/7 multilingual support, which is helpful for new students.
Average Cost of Student Health Insurance in the USA
On average, international student health insurance costs:
- $500–$800 per semester through private providers
- $1,000–$2,000 per year through university-sponsored plans
Your exact cost depends on factors like age, coverage level, and location. Always compare multiple plans before enrolling.
How to Choose the Right Plan
When choosing a health insurance plan as an international student, look for:
- ✅ Coverage for hospitalization, doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergencies
- ✅ 24/7 emergency assistance and support
- ✅ Affordable premiums and deductibles
- ✅ Compliance with your university’s insurance requirements
- ✅ Direct billing with nearby hospitals or clinics
Before buying, ask your university’s international student office for a list of approved providers.
Tips to Save Money on Student Health Insurance
- Enroll early to avoid late fees or penalties
- Choose higher deductibles to lower monthly premiums
- Use your university’s on-campus clinic for free or low-cost care
- Combine plans if your home country’s insurance covers part of your stay
Final Thoughts
Getting the right health insurance plan is an essential part of studying in the U.S. It ensures you can focus on your education without worrying about medical bills. Whether you attend Arizona State University, Rowan University, or any other U.S. college, compare multiple plans and choose one that fits your needs and budget.