Pursuing a higher education abroad allows individuals to not only gain insight into concepts of the educational world that may have never otherwise never been conceived, but to also experience the everyday unknown. For many, it’s the chance to live away from home, develop new relationships and discover what path in life they want to take. While this is exciting and a chance of a lifetime, it’s important that students not only make plans for their next big adventure, but also plan for the unexpected.
One of the best ways to prepare is finding an international student health insurance plan that not only protects you, but also works for you!
Students who come from a country where purchasing health insurance is not the norm may be overwhelmed at first when trying to answer questions about what is student insurance. International students who have a few moments to spare can sit back, continue reading and walk away with the answer to what is student insurance.
The first step in figuring out what is student insurance is to know that this insurance is primarily purchased to prepare for the unexpected. While some plans have coverage for wellness, such as general check-ups and immunizations, these are not typically included in international student health insurance plans. However, students will want to make sure their plan includes coverage for illness and injury including the following key benefits:
- Doctor visits
- Hospitalization
- Emergency Medical Evacuation
- Repatriation of Remains
- Prescriptions
Depending on the situation, students may also require other benefits beyond this. Schools often have coverage requirements that students will need to meet. A few of the most commonly required benefits include maternity, mental health and coverage for pre-existing conditions after a reasonable waiting period.
Upon purchasing an insurance plan, students will pay a premium for the plan. The frequency of payment will vary from plan to plan, it may be required up front or monthly- it all depends on the plan. After the first premium, students will then receive their insurance documents which are typically used to show their school proof of health insurance.
When discovering the ins and outs of student insurance it’s important to understand what the insurance will cover and what the insured will be expected to contribute- the premium may not be the only payment associated with the health insurance plan when the individual receives medical care. Plans typically have a co-pay, deductible or co-insurance. When comparing plans, students should look at the benefits but also what out of pocket expense they will be required to fulfill upon a trip to the doctor’s office or hospital.
