Top 5 health insurance for Indian students studying in the US 

As an Indian student embarking on higher education in the US, securing appropriate health insurance is paramount. While some universities offer their own plans, many students opt for external providers to ensure the coverage per the waiver form is met and that it aligns with their personal needs and budget. This guide highlights five best seller health insurance providers tailored for international students, emphasizing their benefits, coverage options, and suitability for Indian students in the US. 

Table of Contents: 

• Health Insurance for Indian Students in the US 

• Top 5 Health Insurance Plans for Indian Students 

• Conclusion 

Health Insurance for Indian Students in the US 

Health insurance is essential for Indian students studying in the United States, where medical care is extremely expensive. Without proper coverage, even a minor illness or injury can lead to high out-of-pocket costs. Most universities require students to have adequate health insurance, either through school-sponsored plans or private alternatives. 

For instance, 

• F1 student visas are granted to individuals enrolled in academic programs such as universities, colleges, or high schools in the US. Most institutions require F1 visa holders to maintain health insurance coverage, either by enrolling in the university-sponsored plan or by choosing a private insurance plan that meets the school’s minimum coverage requirements. 

• M1 vocational student visas are issued to individuals enrolling in non-academic or vocational programs. While health insurance is typically required for M1 visa holders, coverage requirements may vary based on the institution and the duration of the program. Students can obtain insurance through their school or from private providers that meet the necessary guidelines. 

• J1 exchange visas are granted to students, scholars, and exchange visitors participating in educational and cultural exchange programs, including work and study initiatives. The U.S. Department of State requires all J1 visa holders to maintain health insurance that meets specific minimum standards throughout their stay. While many exchange programs and universities offer plans that fulfill the medical coverage requirements, they may not include Evacuation and Repatriation benefits. If permitted by the sponsor or university, J1 visa holders can choose private health insurance plans that meet all required criteria through a waiver process. 

Top 5 Health Insurance Plans for Indian Students 

1. Patriot Exchange Standard  

Who can apply: Designed for international students on J or F visas participating in cultural exchange programs, teaching, studying, researching, or receiving job training in the U.S. 

Coverage details: 

• Maximum coverage choices up to $500,000 per incident; 
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions after 12 months of continuous coverage up to $500 per year and $1,500 lifetime maximum. 
• $50,000 coverage for Medical Evacuation 
• $100,000 coverage for Repatriation for Medical Treatment. 
• Coverage for Repatriation of Mortal Remains up to $25,000. 
• $50 copayment in urgent care and $20 copayment in a walk-in clinic.   
• Includes some coverage for mental disorders and substance abuse. 
• $5 copay per visit to the Student Health Center. 
• Optional coverage for Personal Liability, Lost Personal Property, Legal Assistance, Limited Coverage for High School, and College Sports 

Plan Rating: AM Best Rating: A (Excellent) 

Refer to the brochure for complete details.  

2. Student Health Advantage 

Who can apply: The plan is suited for international students, scholars, and individuals taking part in educational or cultural exchange programs 

Coverage details: 

• Policy maximum up to $300,000 for students and $100,000 for dependents.  
• Pre-existing conditions covered after 12 months of continuous coverage. Includes coverage for inpatient mental or nervous/ substance abuse up to $10,000. 
• Repatriation up to $25,000 lifetime maximum. 
• Medical Evacuation up to $500,000 lifetime maximum 
• It comes with $5 copay & no deductible if first treated at Student Health Center.  
• Optional coverage: Adventure Sports Rider and Mobile Device Protection Rider 

Plan Rating: AM Best Rating: A- (Excellent) 

Refer to the brochure for complete details. 

3. Study USA 

Eligibility: The plan is designed to offer coverage to foreign students, scholars, teachers and OPT status individuals residing outside of their country for at least 3 months per year and involved in educational activity. The plan meets health insurance requirements for J1 visa holders. 

Coverage details: 

• Medical coverage with an unlimited policy maximum. 
• Medical Evacuation up to $250,000, and Repatriation up to $25,000 
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment up to $10,000. 
• Covers pre-existing conditions after the 12-month waiting period. 
• Covers preventive care for adults and kids. 
• Covers Travel Vaccinations with a year maximum of $500. 
• Covers Mental, Nervous Disorders 80% after deductible under US providers. 
• Dental care due to an injury up to $500 in a calendar year. 

Plan Rating: A- “Excellent” by A.M. Best 

Refer to the brochure for complete details.  

4. Atlas America 

Who can apply: Non-U.S. citizens travelling to the US for education or exchange programs on a visa and are at least fourteen (14) days of age are eligible for coverage outside of their home countries.  

Plan Coverage: 

• Choice of policy maximum up to $2 million 
• $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 Acute Onset of Pre-existing Conditions up to the overall maximum limit. 
• Covers emergency travel benefits like trip interruption, travel delay, lost checked luggage, and lost/stolen passport/visa. 
• Covers $300 for dental emergencies. 
• Up to $1,000,000 lifetime maximum, for Medical Evacuation. 
• Coverage for Repatriation of Mortal Remains to the chosen policy maximum. 
• Covers complications during pregnancy  during the first 26 weeks. 

Plan Rating: A++ (Superior) from the A.M. Best 

Refer to the brochure for complete details. 

5. Student Secure Smart 

Who can apply: The plan is designed for international students and scholars planning to pursue education outside their home country. It meets or exceeds most government and visa requirements. It also meets the requirements of many schools. 

Plan Coverage: 

• $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 a $5 renewal fee.  

Plan Rating: A (Excellent) in the AM Best Rating 

Refer to the brochure for complete details.  

Conclusion 

Selecting the right health insurance is crucial for Indian students studying in the U.S. The providers mentioned above offer a range of plans that cater to the specific needs of international students, ensuring access to quality healthcare and compliance with visa requirements. It is essential to carefully review each plan’s benefits, coverage limits, and exclusions to choose the one that best fits your individual needs and budget. 

To buy an international student plan, do not hesitate to contact Visitor Guard®.