Top 5 Health Insurance for Canadian Students Studying in the US? 

For Canadian students studying in the US, having the right health insurance is crucial to ensure they have access to the care they need while studying abroad.  Given the high cost of healthcare in the U.S., having adequate coverage ensures access to necessary medical services and compliance with university requirements. This guide outlines the top five health insurance options tailored for Canadian students in the U.S. 

Table of Contents: 

• Health Insurance Options for Canadian Students in the US 

• Top 5 Health Insurance for Canadian Students 

• FAQs 

• Conclusion 

Health Insurance Options for Canadian Students in the US 

When Canadian students come to the US, they can choose different visa options like J1, M1, and F1. Although Canadian citizens intending to be students in the USA do not need to go to a US embassy or consulate to apply for an F-1 student visa, they do need to be processed at the border to get their proper F-1/J1/M1 student visa status. The student visa status is awarded upon entry into the USA by an officer of the US Customs and Border Protection Service. The visa that you have will affect your insurance options, as well. 

For example: 

• F1 student visas are issued to students enrolled in an academic program, such as university, college, or high school. Most universities require F1 visa holders to have health insurance coverage as per the institution’s requirement, either through the university’s plan or a private plan (which meets the minimum insurance requirement). 

• M1 vocational student visas are issued to students enrolling in non-academic or vocational programs, such as technical or language schools. M1 visa holders are generally required to have health insurance either through their schools or private health insurance providers, but the specifics can vary depending on the institution and the length of stay. 

• J1 exchange visas are issued to students, scholars, and exchange visitors participating in exchange programs, including work and study programs. The US Department of State mandates that J1 visa holders maintain specific health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in the US. Many exchange programs and universities provide health insurance that meets the J1 visa insurance medical requirements but may not include Evacuation and Repatriation coverage. They can opt for private health insurance plans as well if the sponsor/university allows them to opt for waiver options. 

Top 5 Health Insurance for Canadian Students 

Student Secure Smart  

This is a comprehensive plan, underwritten by Llyod’s, which has received an A (Excellent) in the AM Best Rating. The Student Select plan has four options to select from: Smart, Budget, Select, Elite. Note that this (Smart) plan does not cover pregnancy and maternity, but students can get limited coverage through the Elite, Select and Budget plan.  

The special features are:  

• $100,000 per incident in medical coverage 

• $25,000 of coverage for the acute onset of a pre-existing condition 

• Includes coverage for mental health disorders. (Check the brochure for details) 

• Includes coverage for Outpatient Physical therapy & chiropractic care if ordered by a physician 

• Includes Emergency medical evacuation up to $50,000 lifetime maximum 

• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum 

• The plan is renewable with $5 for renewal fee.  

Patriot Exchange Standard  

This is one of the best sellers for international students coming to the US, offering policy maximum up to $500,000 per injury sickness. This plan is designed to meet the US J visa insurance requirements for individuals and groups of two or more students. 

The special features are:  

• $5 copay in student health center.  

• $50 copayment in urgent care and $20 copayment in walk-in clinic.  

• Includes coverage for mental disorder and substance abuse.  

• Includes coverage for political evacuation and repatriation up to $10,000.  

• Includes some covers for traumatic dental injury and accidents.  

• Includes Repatriation coverage up to $25,000 lifetime maximum  

• Includes Medical Evacuation coverage up to $50,000 lifetime maximum  

Student Health Advantage  

This is a comprehensive international medical insurance policy underwritten by SiriusPoint Ltd, designed to protect students and scholars and meet their visa requirements. 

The special features are:  

• Policy maximum up to $500,000 for students and $100,000 for dependents.  

• Pre-existing education covered after 12 months of continuous coverage. Can be covered (except pregnancy) after 6 months with a 70% surcharge if student in FL, HI, ID, MA only.  

• Includes coverage for inpatient mental or nervous/ substance abuse up to $10,000.  

• Includes some coverage for dental treatment and traumatic dental injury.  

• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum  

• Medical Evacuation up to $500,000 lifetime maximum 

GeoBlue Navigator Student Inbound  

Underwritten by BCBS Insurance Company with an A- (Excellent) Rating, the plan offers an unlimited policy maximum to the policyholders with a choice of $0 to $5,000 annual deductible.  

The special features are:  

• Includes coverage for pre-existing conditions after 12 months of continuous coverage; covered immediately with prior creditable protection. 

• $30 copay per visit for doctors.  

• Covers preventive care for babies/children.  

• Covers Mental, Emotional or Functional Nervous Disorders, Alcoholism or Drug Abuse.  

• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum  

• Medical Evacuation up to $250,000 lifetime maximum 

Atlas America 

The Atlas America plan is another excellent option for snowbirds, offering comprehensive protection tailored to Canadian students coming to the US. 

The special features are: 

• $15 copay & no deductible if treated at Urgent Care 

• In network, plan pays 100% up to policy maximum per year. 

• Covers up to the chosen policy maximum  for doctors and prescriptions 

• Covers $300 for dental emergencies. 

• Covers pregnancy complications during the first 26 weeks. 

FAQs 

Can I buy a health insurance plan outside the university’s insurance options? 

 Yes, many universities allow students to opt for private health insurance plans, provided they meet the institution’s specific insurance requirements. It is essential to verify with your university whether they offer a waiver option for their insurance plan and ensure that any private plan you consider complies with their criteria. 

Can I extend my health insurance coverage after my studies in the US? 

 Many student health insurance plans offer the possibility of extending coverage beyond the academic period if you remain in the U.S. for additional time. It is advisable to consult with your insurance provider to determine if your plan can be extended or if you need to purchase a new policy after your program concludes. 

What happens if I do not have health insurance while studying in the US? 

 For F1 visa holders, universities often require proof of health insurance coverage as a condition of enrollment. Without it, you may be unable to register for classes and might be compelled to purchase a plan through the university. For J1 visa holders, maintaining health insurance that meets the U.S. Department of State’s requirements is mandatory throughout your stay. 

Can I switch my university’s health insurance to a private plan? 

Yes, if your university permits, you can transition to a private health insurance plan. However, you must ensure that the private plan meets the university’s coverage requirements. Some institutions may require proof of equivalent coverage before approving such a switch. 

Will my health insurance cover me if I travel within the US or abroad? 

 Most health insurance plans for international students provide coverage throughout the U.S. However, coverage for international travel may vary. If you plan to travel outside the U.S., it is crucial to select a plan that includes international coverage or to purchase additional travel insurance to ensure comprehensive protection. 

Conclusion 

Selecting the appropriate health insurance is crucial for Canadian students studying in the US to ensure access to quality healthcare,  avoid high medical costs and meet the university or visa insurance requirements. It is important to compare the plans based on coverage limits, cost, and additional benefits to choose the best fit for your needs. With the right insurance, students can focus on their studies without worrying about unexpected healthcare expenses.