Get International Student Insurance for the 2014 – 2015 School Year
September 15th, 2014 by Victoria Troupe
The 2014 – 2015 school year is off to a great start. If you’re an international student, you’ve checked just about everything off of your list and are getting ready to enjoy the new semester in a new place. One thing many students forget to consider is international student insurance coverage. If insurance was inadvertently left off of your checklist, don’t worry! You still have time to protect yourself against expensive medical costs.
Insurance coverage may or may not be mandatory for you while you are an international student. It is an important thing to have in any case, especially for students studying in the US, where medical expenses can be much higher than other places. To help you find the best insurance solution, every student should ask themselves the following questions (I’ve also provided some suggestions for quickly determining and obtaining an international student insurance plan that will work for you):
1. Does my visa require me to have insurance? In order to obtain a visa, you are sometimes required to maintain a certain level of insurance coverage in the country you will be staying. The F visa, a student visa in the US, does not require insurance coverage. However, many other types of visas do. Usually you need to show proof of this coverage during a visa interview or before you enter the country itself. However, if your old policy has expired, you’re looking for different coverage, or if you simply forgot, it’s not to late to get covered. Our Travel Medical plan meets most visa requirements around the world and is a great option for international students or even just travelers. The application is a simple, online process and you can begin your coverage the same day.
Here are some popular visas and their specific insurance requirements:
- J Visa – J visa holders are required to have insurance coverage to properly maintain their US visa privileges. Those benefits are:
- Medical Benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
- Repatriation of Remains in the amount of at least $7,500
- Medical Evacuation benefit in the amount of at least $10,000
- Deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
- A policy underwritten by an insurance carrier with:
- an AM Best rating of “A-” or above
- an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd (ISI) rating of “A-I” or above
- a Standard and Poor’s Claims Paying Ability rating of “A-” or above
- or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of “B+” or above
The benefits required are pretty basic, so you might want to consider increasing your coverage above these minimum amounts. Our Travel Medical plan is an excellent option for J visa holders. It meets all of the minimum requirements listed above, plus more. It is also a flexible plan that allows you to choose your own deductible and overall maximum limit, so that you can get the coverage you need.
- Schengen Visa – If you’re studying in the Schengen region of Europe, you’ll need insurance coverage for your visa. The insurance requirements the the Schengen visa are:
- Medical Benefits of at least EUR €30 000 (equivalent to $50,000 USD)
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- Repatriation coverage for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and/or emergency hospital treatment or death
- Coverage Period valid within the Schengen region and for the full duration of stay
Our Travel Medical plan is also a good choice for students looking to meet these benefits. If you prefer a policy administered in Europe and offering payment terms in Euros, our Europe Travel plan is a great option for you.
2. Does my school have any specific insurance requirements? Not only do governments try to ensure that international students are properly covered, most colleges, universities, and high schools require their students to maintain proper insurance coverage while they are in school. Your international advisor will probably let you know what type of coverage they want you to have. They may even offer a school-sponsored insurance plan for you. Most students find these school-sponsored plans to be very expensive compared to purchasing their own individual plan. So, most schools allow you to waive the school’s policy if you buy your own plan that meets their requirements.
Our International Student Insurance plan meets the requirements for most schools and is built with international students in mind. It is annually renewable, so you can keep it while work towards your degree. You can also purchase it for less than one year if needed. You’ll have three levels of coverage to choose from – Smart, Budget, or Select – to ensure you have the coverage you need.If you’re not sure what your US school requires for insurance, try using our School Requirements search tool to see which of our affordable plans will work for you, or give us a call and we can discuss your options.
3. What type of coverage do I need? Many unique situations may be factors when determining what insurance plan is right for you. Do you need a plan for your family? Do you need coverage in your home country? Are you changing your visa status but still need international coverage? These and other factors can change the style of plan that will be best for you.
- If you need coverage for your spouse or family, a student-focused plan is not always the way to go. If you need coverage for one year or less, our Travel Medical plan can meet your short-term needs at an affordable premium. If you need longer-term coverage, our Major Medical plan is a great option. It is annually renewable, provides four levels of coverage to choose from, and offers an affordable rate for dependents.
- Our Major Medical plan also offers a unique option for Worldwide coverage, which includes your home country (only 30 days of home country coverage for US citizens), if needed. This is a convenient option for expats that travel home often and that need comprehensive coverage around the world. US citizens returning from a study abroad or trip should look into our Short-term Insurance plan for domestic coverage.
- A visa change can also change your eligibility for certain insurance policies. For example, as soon as you are no longer a full-time international student, you no longer qualify for our International Student Insurance plan. However, there is an exception for those on OPT or CPT. Even though you are no longer a student, you are still technically maintaining a valid student visa, so you are still eligible for the International Student Insurance plan. If you are changing your student visa to a working or permanent resident visa, a major medical style plan will offer the coverage you need.
If you still have questions about which plan is best for you, let us know. We can help you find the insurance plan you need. It’s not too late!
September 2014 Travel Warnings
September 9th, 2014 by Ross Mason
September 2014 Travel Warnings
The September 2014 travel warnings are a listing of any warnings that have been posted by the US Department of State in the month of August, warning travelers who plan to visit those countries. Countries listed include:
Ukraine – August 29th, 2014
The Department of State warns of the risks of travel to eastern Ukraine due to ongoing violent clashes between Russia-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk. In addition, Russian military forces continue to occupy the Crimean Peninsula and are present on the eastern border of Ukraine. Russia-backed separatists continue to control areas in the Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts. These groups have established illegal checkpoints and have threatened, detained, or kidnapped individuals, including U.S. citizens, for hours or days. The Ukrainian armed forces have launched an operation to reclaim these areas. Violent clashes between the Russia-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces have escalated over the past month and have resulted in hundreds of injuries and deaths.
Lebanon – August 15th, 2014
The Department of State urges travelers to avoid all travel to Lebanon because of ongoing safety and security concerns. The potential for death or injury in Lebanon exists in particular because of the frequency of terrorist bombing attacks throughout the country. Many of the attacks have targeted specific individuals or venues, but nearly all cases have resulted in death and injuries to passersby in the vicinity. lthough there is no evidence these attacks were directed specifically at U.S. citizens at this time, there is a real possibility of “wrong place, wrong time” harm to U.S. citizens. The most recent wave of bombings began in June 2013, with four bombings in Beirut and Tripoli that collectively left hundreds dead and wounded. In November 2013, two suicide bombers attacked the Iranian embassy, killing 23 and injuring more than 150.
Mexico – August 15th, 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns about the risk of traveling to certain places in Mexico due to threats to safety and security posed by organized criminal groups in the country. U.S. citizens have been the target of violent crimes, such as kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery by organized criminal groups in various Mexican states.
Sierra Leone – August 14th, 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns against non-essential travel to Sierra Leone. As of August 11, there have been 759 confirmed cases and 293 confirmed deaths due to an outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Sierra Leone. The outbreak of EVD has overwhelmed Sierra Leone’s health system due to the lack of sufficient staff and/or resources to address the continuing transmission of EVD. Options for obtaining routine medical care are severely limited. In addition, most medical evacuation companies have suspended service to Ebola-affected countries and several airlines have suspended service to Freetown. This severely limits options for medical evacuation in the case of EVD and non-EVD medical cases.
Algeria – August 13th, 2014
The Department of State continues to warn of the risks of travel to Algeria. There is a high threat of terrorism and kidnappings in Algeria. This kidnapping threat was noted in the Department of State’s latest Worldwide Caution. Although the major cities are heavily policed, attacks could still potentially take place. The majority of terrorist attacks, including bombings, false roadblocks, kidnappings, and ambushes occur in areas of the country east and south of Algiers.
Iraq – August 10th, 2014
The Department of State warns against all but essential travel to Iraq. Travel within Iraq remains dangerous given the security situation. U.S. citizens in Iraq remain at high risk for kidnapping and terrorist violence. Methods of attack have included roadside improvised explosive devices (IEDs), including explosively formed penetrators (EFPs); magnetic IEDs placed on vehicles; human and vehicle-borne IEDs; mines placed on or concealed near roads; mortars and rockets; and shootings using various direct fire weapons. These and other attacks frequently occur in public gathering places, such as cafes, markets and other public venues. Numerous insurgent groups, including ISIL, previously known as al-Qa’ida in Iraq, remain active and terrorist activity and violence persist in many areas of the country. ISIL and its allies control Mosul, Iraq’s second largest city, and have captured significant territory across central Iraq and continue to engage with Iraqi security forces in that region. In early August, the threat to the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR) increased considerably with the advance of ISIL towards Kurdish areas.
Saudi Arabia – August 8th, 2014
The Department of State urges travelers to carefully consider the risks of traveling to Saudi Arabia. Recent developments include an attack by members of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) on a border checkpoint along the Saudi-Yemeni border on July 4, 2014, and increased media reports of threats to Saudi infrastructure and U.S. installations in the Kingdom. The last major terrorist attack against foreign nationals occurred in 2007, but security threats are ongoing and terrorist groups, some affiliated with al-Qaida, may target both Saudi and Western interests. Possible targets include housing compounds, hotels, shopping areas and other facilities where Westerners congregate, as well as Saudi government facilities and economic/commercial targets within the Kingdom.
Pakistan – August 8th, 2014
The Department of State warns travelers to defer all non-essential travel to Pakistan. The presence of several foreign and indigenous terrorist groups poses a danger to U.S. citizens throughout Pakistan. Across the country, terrorist attacks frequently occur against civilian, government, and foreign targets. Attacks have included armed assaults on heavily guarded sites, including Pakistani military installations and airports. The Government of Pakistan maintains heightened security measures, particularly in the major cities. Threat reporting indicates terrorist groups continue to seek opportunities to attack locations where U.S. citizens and Westerners are known to congregate or visit. Terrorists and criminal groups regularly resort to kidnapping for ransom.
Nigeria – August 8th, 2014
The Department of State warns of the risks of travel to Nigeria and recommends that travelers avoid all travel to Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states because of the May 14, 2013 state of emergency proclamation for those three states by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The security situation in the country remains fluid and unpredictable. The Department continues to recommend against all but essential travel to the following states due to the risk of kidnappings, robberies, and other armed attacks: Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Kano, and Yobe States. The Department also advises travelers to exercise additional caution while traveling in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.
Liberia – August 7th, 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns against non-essential travel to Liberia. In May 2014, a case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) was confirmed in Liberia, marking the first case in a second wave of the EVD outbreak. Since then, EVD has continued to spread and intensify. The latest wave of the outbreak has overwhelmed Liberia’s health system and most health facilities lack sufficient staff or resources to address the continuing transmission of EVD. Options for obtaining routine medical care are severely limited.
Cameroon – August 6th, 2014
The Department of State warns of the high risk of travel to Cameroon and cautions travelers to avoid all travel to the Far North region of the country. The terrorist group Boko Haram is active in the Far North, and has actively targeted foreign expatriates resident in Cameroon, tourists, and government leaders. On July 25, 2014, more than 200 suspected Boko Haram operatives conducted a coordinated attack on two compounds in Kolofata.
While traveling, please keep these travel warnings in mind and remember to exercise extra care if you are visiting these countries, and check with your travel insurance provider to make sure you still have coverage in place – sometimes some benefits can be excluded for countries under a travel warning. Travelers are also advised to enroll through the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay up to date on travel security information.
Dixie State University International Student Insurance
August 27th, 2014 by Ross Mason
This blog has been updated to reflect the new insurance requirements for the Dixie State University for the 2020-2021 school year.
Founded in 1911, Dixie State University is a public institution located in an urban, 117 acre setting in Saint George. Because Dixie State College of Utah holds a mission to offer programs that “meet the needs of students, the community, and the state,” international students will find majors in business, management, marketing, communication, education, computer sciences and more. Students have access to services in tutoring, health, and security as well as a location that provides opportunities for hiking, climbing, water sports, and winter sports. International students at Dixie State College of Utah will find personal help with admissions and enrollment, advice for how to succeed as an international student in the United States, planned trips and activities, and support with cross-cultural adjustment and immigration.
Requirements
Along with the Form I-20, passports, and financial documentation, international students are required to show proof of international student health insurance coverage within thirty days of arrival. Utah also requires all international students to be tested for tuberculosis within thirty days of arrival. Since Dixie State College of Utah requires all international students to hold health insurance coverage during their time studying, students are encouraged to research and choose a plan as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline.
Insurance Plan Options
If you are looking for a Dixie State College International Student Insurance plan, the best place to start is the International Service Office. However, students are encouraged to research plans that will be right for them and are allowed to purchase those health insurance plans to submit as proof to the college. Our International Student Health Insurance plan offers four options for students that are accepted by DSU. These options range in coverage and allow for international students to choose the plan that best suits their budget and lifestyle.
For students who are looking for a more affordable, our Smart and Budget levels offer a balance of saving money as well as ensuring that you are secure and safe. The Select and Elite level plans provides the most extensive coverage. Your plan will not only cover doctor visits, hospitalization, prescriptions, medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and mental health, but you can also have coverage for maternity, pre-existing condition, and organized sports.
For a student ages 24 and younger, one year costs:
- Smart – $371.28 per year
- Budget – $513.24 per year
- Select – $1,161.16 per year
- Elite – $2,140.32 per year
Whether you’re looking to take business classes and hike trails or meet people who will have an impact on your life, Dixie State College of Utah wants to make sure that their students are free to experience these opportunities without the added stress of paying for medical expenses. By researching what plans are right for you, a path of education and inspiration can be the focus of your journey. Students can look at the three levels from our International Student Health Insurance plan for guidance on what they may be looking for. International students who have questions about health insurance, plans, or procedures can contact us for more information.
Updated August 5, 2020
Insurance Requirements and Options for Studying Abroad in France
August 25th, 2014 by Bryanna Davis
Ten of the top 25 study abroad destinations for US citizens are inside Europe- number four on that list is France, according to the 2011/2012 Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors report. The latest report shows that there were 17,168 US students who studied abroad in France during the last academic year- a 0.9 percent increase from the year prior.
If you’re included in the steadily growing number of students (whether from the US or not) spending a semester, year, or degree abroad in France you must make sure you have the insurance you need. Your situation, including time abroad, will determine if you need a visa and to purchase private health insurance for France, or will be eligible for the French national healthcare system.
First, let’s take a look at the requirements!
If you are under 28 years old and staying for longer than 90 days in France you might be eligible for coverage under the national healthcare system in France. There will be a few factors that play into your eligibility, but if you are younger than 28 and will be in France on a long stay student visa, it doesn’t hurt to check it out!
If you’re older than 28 years old and in France on a long stay on a student visa (more than 90 days) you are required to show proof of private health insurance. If you will be there short term, less than 90 days, you will be on the Schengen visa if you are a non-US citizen. This also means you must show proof of private health insurance to meet your Schengen Visa Insurance requirements. Your health insurance plan must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum coverage must be EUR €30 000 (equivalent to $50,000 USD)
- Coverage must be valid within the Schengen region and for the full duration of stay
- Coverage for expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention and/or emergency hospital treatment or death
If you need to buy a private health insurance plan that will meet these requirements you have a few options to choose from, here are a few popular options that those studying abroad in France often purchase to show proof of coverage:
Travel Medical Insurance Even if you’re study abroad trip to France is short-term, you can still have a plan that will cover you for illness and injury when the need strikes. With this plan you can choose your coverage amount and deductible, this means you can choose your plan price.
Patriot Travel- Sometimes one year of coverage just isn’t enough. This plan is renewable for up to two years for anyone studying abroad outside of their home country. It’s also a great option for those who need flexibility in coverage and price.
Student Health Insurance- If you need coverage more long-term this plan is renewable up to four years. It will also provide coverage for mental health, maternity, pre-existing condition after a short wait and organized sports.
All three plans will give you immediate access to documentation after your purchase showing proof that you have the coverage you need, or are required to have while studying abroad in France.
If you would like personalized assistance finding a health insurance plan for your study abroad in France, please contact us for assistance.
Broward College International Student Insurance
August 15th, 2014 by Ross MasonTo see the latest insurance requirements for Broward College, please see our latest 2020-2021 international student blog.
Broward County is everything people imagine Florida to be – white sand a miles of beaches – and although this alone is enough to attract tourists (and spring breakers) from around the world by the millions, there is so much more to both the city and the county around it. Indeed, located as it is in the heart in the most densely populated region in the state, Broward County is also home to one of the state’s most renowned centers of higher education: Broward College.
International Students at Broward
Named by the Washington D.C.-based Aspen Institute as one of the top ten percent of colleges in the nation, Broward College has been attracting students interested in studying fields as diverse as education, business, and the humanities since it was founded in 1959. With campuses located around Broward County it is a rising star in education that is becoming increasingly popular among students from across the country. Not that its allure is limited solely to domestic students: Broward College’s international appeal is also strong. They are home to more than 63,000 students from one of more than 180 countries.
Health Insurance Requirements
Despite the diversity of their backgrounds, each and every international student is required to maintain adequate Broward College International Student Insurance, which includes those on OPT. This year Broward College is also requiring that students have a year of coverage, even if they plan to return home over the summer.
The minimum insurance requirements international students must have are:
- The policy provides coverage of major medical expenses including but not limited to hospital room and board, hospital miscellaneous, physician visits, surgery, anesthesia, etc.
- Medical Evacuation & Medical Repatriation Coverage
Because people without health insurance are solely responsible for paying all of the (often high) medical fees associated with their care, Broward College has mandated that all international students must demonstrate that they have “adequate medical insurance coverage” before allowing them to register or otherwise continue enrollment at Broward College.
Meeting Requirements
While this all might sound overwhelming, it does not have to be. Happily, one of the most affordable – and comprehensive – health insurance plans on the market satisfies all of these requirements and then some. Our Student Health Insurance plan provides comprehensive student health insurance, offering four levels of coverage that all meet or exceed Broward College’s requirements.
Plans include coverage for:
- Doctor Visits
- Hospitalization
- Prescription Medication
- Emergency Medical Evacuation
- Repatriation
- Mental Health
To learn more about the Student Secure plan, its options, and the coverage they provide, feel free to visit our website or contact our customer service team by phone, chat, or e-mail. At the same time, for more information about Broward College’s health insurance requirements, please visit the school’s page.
Why Do You Need Health Insurance?
Though it may not be nearly as exciting as the nearby beaches, the subject of international student insurance is important for several reasons.
- You Pay Your Own Medical Bills
Because the United States does not have a system of nationalized health care, individuals without private insurance are required to pay for the cost of all medical care out of their own pocket. - Medical Care in the US is Expensive
While this may not seem like a major issue to the average college student, because even routine procedures can saddle international students with significant financial difficulties, all students – domestic and international alike – are encouraged to have adequate medical health insurance in the event of an emergency no matter where they study.
For more information about the US Healthcare System, please view our quick 6 minute video guide!
Updated August 5, 2020
August 2014 Travel Warnings
August 13th, 2014 by Ross MasonAugust 2014 Travel Warnings
The August 2014 travel warnings are a listing of any warnings that have been posted by the US Department of State in the month of July, warning travelers who plan to visit those countries. Countries listed include:
Libya – July 26th, 2014
The Department of State warns against all travel to Libya and recommends that U.S. citizens currently in Libya depart immediately. The security situation in Libya remains unpredictable and unstable. The Libyan government has not been able to adequately build its military and police forces and improve security following the 2011 revolution. Many military-grade weapons remain in the hands of private individuals, including antiaircraft weapons that may be used against civilian aviation. Crime levels remain high in many parts of the country. In addition to the threat of crime, various groups have called for attacks against U.S. citizens and U.S. interests in Libya. Extremist groups in Libya have made several specific threats this year against U.S. government officials, citizens, and interests in Libya. Because of the presumption that foreigners, especially U.S. citizens, in Libya may be associated with the U.S. government or U.S. NGOs, travelers should be aware that they may be targeted for kidnapping, violent attacks, or death.
Israel, The West Bank and Gaza – July 21st, 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns of the risks of traveling to Israel, the West Bank and Gaza due to ongoing hostilities. The security environment remains complex in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza, and U.S. citizens need to be aware of the risks of travel to these areas because of the current conflict between Hamas and Israel. Long-range rockets launched from Gaza since July 8, 2014 have reached many locations in Israel – including Tel Aviv, cities farther north, and throughout the south of the country. Some rockets have reached Jerusalem and parts of the West Bank, including Bethlehem and Hebron. While many rockets have been intercepted by the Iron Dome missile defense system, there have been impacts that have caused damage and injury. In light of the ongoing rocket attacks, travelers should familiarize themselves with the location of the nearest bomb shelter or other hardened site, if available.
Yemen – July 21st, 2014
The U.S. Department of State warns of the high security threat level in Yemen due to terrorist activities and civil unrest. Demonstrations continue to take place in various parts of the country and may quickly escalate and turn violent. Travelers are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations, and to exercise extreme caution if within the vicinity of a demonstration.
While traveling, please keep these travel warnings in mind and remember to exercise extra care if you are visiting these countries, and check with your travel insurance provider to make sure you still have coverage in place – sometimes some benefits can be excluded for countries under a travel warning. Travelers are also advised to enroll through the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay up to date on travel security information.
George Fox University International Student Insurance
August 11th, 2014 by Ross Mason
George Fox University is located in the state of Oregon. It is a Christian university that has a supportive community that encourages academic rigor and spiritual growth, and is home to about 3,700 students each academic year. George Fox University requires students to have health insurance, and the university also provides Health and Counseling services on campus for all students. Along with needing to have Health Insurance all students are required to have received the measles/mumps/rebella (MMR) vaccination prior to attending class. This can be done prior to getting on to campus or for a fee can be done at the GFU Health and Counseling Center.
George Fox University has their own school health insurance plan but if you can find another, alternative health insurance plan, you can fill out a waiver form with the university.
This years deadline for waiving the school plan is August 15, 2016.
School Insurance Plan
The University has a student health insurance plan for all international students, called the George Fox University International Student Insurance Plan. It is provided by UnitedHealthcare, and the cost for this plan is $1,722.00 for 12 months of coverage. You can find full information about the plan through your school.
Alternative Insurance Coverage
Students are, however, allowed to purchase alternative insurance coverage, which could save you almost $1,000 per year! For a student aged between 18 and 29 years old, our plans for 12 months cost:
- Smart – $764.40 per year
- Budget – $1,066.52 per year
- Select – $2,238.60 per year
- Elite – $3,134.04 per year
For more details about the various plan levels, please visit our website. Your school currently allows international students to purchase their own coverage, and once you have purchased online you just need to complete the George Fox University Health Insurance waiver form before the deadline.
Why Purchase Alternative Coverage?
There are many reasons why students will want to purchase alternative health insurance coverage, but the leading factor is that it will save you money! Depending on which level of coverage our purchase through our plan, we can save you over $1,000 per year on your health insurance coverage when compared to your school’s insurance plan. The plan has also been accepted by your school, so there should be no problem in waiving coverage.
If you would like more information about our plan – please either visit our website or contact our customer support team!
Updated July 12 2016
Digipen Institute of Technology International Student Insurance
August 6th, 2014 by Ross MasonOffering dedicated programs in computer science, digital art, and computer engineering, DigiPen Institute of Technology in Redmond, Washington is known to be a “world-renowned leader in education and research in computer interactive technologies.” International students who are looking for a place of higher education that is committed to fostering academic growth and inspiring creativity in all its students will thrive in DigiPen’s graduate and undergraduate programs. Each degree program has an advisory committee comprised of faculty, staff, and industry professionals who assess the curriculum on an annual basis for proper rigor and applicable content. The institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges to teach an approximate 1,055 students from 35 countries.
Requirements
With 9 percent of the enrolled students coming internationally, DigiPen wants to ensure that all international students are enrolled in a health and accident insurance policy before the start of classes. The institute allows international students to choose an insurance plan that suits their needs, providing they submit proof of insurance before the start of the semester. DigiPen encourages students to choose a plan that provides:
- Medical Expenses Coverage:
- Lifetime maximum benefit – minimum $1,000,000
- Policy year maximum benefit – minimum $250,000
- Maximum benefit per injury or sickness – minimum $250,000
- Repatriation of Remains Coverage
- Medical Evacuation Coverage
Plan Options
Because there are so many options for international students when it comes to choosing a health insurance plan, DigiPen Institute of Technology makes the search easier and more convenient by featuring our own international student health insurance plan on their website. The plan covers and exceed the Digipen Institute of Technology International Student Insurance recommendations for necessary coverage for international students. The coverage is offered on a monthly basis and international students with the F-1 visa are automatically eligible. The plan includes the following main benefits:
- Doctors visits
- Hospitalization
- Pre-existing Conditions
- Maternity and Newborn Care
- Mental Health Disorders
- Emergency Medical Evacuation
- Repatriation of Remains
The Budget, Select and Elite plans reflect DigiPen’s recommended coverage and will keep international students financially safe if any health problems arise during their educational stay.
Application/Insurance Form
Once you have purchased your insurance plan online, international students must fill out the Proof of Insurance Form provided by DigiPen Institute of Technology and submit it with a copy of a card or certificate that indicates the dates of coverage, the terms in English, and coverage amounts listed in U.S. dollars. International students who do not provide this proof of insurance by the time the semester begins may have their enrollment in the institute and their F-1 visa canceled. This process should occur at the start of every academic year.
If you need help purchasing coverage for the Digipen Institute of Technology, please contact us and we will be happy to guide you!
Updated August 4, 2020
Summer Travel Inspiration for Students
August 4th, 2014 by Victoria Troupe
August has arrived again and the carefree whims of June and July are nothing but a fond memory again. Sure, the sun is still shining, the pools and beaches still crowded, but the school year ahead is looming over again like the cool breeze of the autumn, waiting to force the white sundresses into the closets and the students back into the stale classrooms. It’s only a few short weeks now until you’re sitting at your desk, listening to your mundane professor ramble on about the obscurities of life, thinking back on the summer you’ve had. What do you see? Did you study to get ahead in school? Did you stay home and work to make extra cash? Although a commendable use of your time, do you wish you had escaped for just awhile to test your limits and see the world? Or maybe you took the trip of a lifetime and saw a far away place that you’ll never forget. Regardless of what memories your summer brings, it’s never too early to get inspired to make your next summer vacation the best it can be!
Planning the perfect summer trip can take time, so start early! Start now! Here are some summer travel inspirations for students to help you through the strenuous school year to come, and to help you on your way to the summer vacation of your life.
Social learning and work and travel programs – If you prefer to spend your spare time learning and preparing for your future, travel may offer some surprising opportunities. There are programs all over the world that that allow you to learn while traveling. For instance, if you are interested in studying a foreign language, language immersion can be a smart choice. Resources like ESLdirectory.com and Study Travel offer different programs and information about studying language around the world.
If you want to attain new skills or study in the field, you can also look into intern abroad programs and trips. Check out Go Abroad and United Planet for great interning, teaching, and volunteering opportunities overseas. The programs look great on your résumé, and may even offer college credit! Many programs are flexible with dates, duration and location.
Of course, your college or university might offer some interesting opportunities to travel abroad and earn college credit. Check with your Study Abroad office to see what programs are available.
Cheap travel deals for students – Let’s face it. Students are tight on cash. We pay big money to sit and listen to the professor ramble on and challenge our young minds to the core. Student deals and discounts make traveling easier when every penny counts. For example, Student Universe gives options for discounted travel and tours for students.
Travel sites like CheapOair.com, Priceline, Hotwire and Kayak.com offer great deals on airfare and accommodations. Low-budget airlines line Ryanair are great money-saving options for short trips from country to country. Hostels, couchsurfing, and other hospitality organizations are popular among many students that can’t afford expensive hotels.
While you’re abroad, the International Student Identity Card can help ensure a cheaper summer trip, with discounts on travel and services. Showing the card will award you a student discount to most major museums and tourist attractions.
Unique experiences for a lifetime – Some destinations are especially great for students and offer a great combination of wonder, fun, and affordability. The Guardian recently rated the top 10 student trips. Here they are:
- Scotland
- Workaway
- Romania
- Cuba
- Budapest
- Ecuador
- Hamburg
- Macedonia
- Cornwall
- Ibiza
No matter your reason for traveling, you can be sure that leaving your comfort zone and experiencing new, exciting places and people will make your next summer vacation a memory that will last a lifetime. And you’ve got all year to look forward to it.
Top 6 Cities for International Students in the USA
July 28th, 2014 by Bryanna Davis
If you already know that you want to become an international student in the US but are unsure when it comes to where to study- let our top 6 cities for international students in the US help you decide! These US cities have become popular with international students recently not just because they are host great schools- but because they’re able to cater to the lifestyle of an international student thanks to the diverse culture, access to the arts, and the variety of public transportation. Plus, they know how to show visitors a good time.
See why we consider these the top 6 cities for international students in the USA to study, then check out if they will be a good fit for you.
- Los Angeles (LA): In LA you can find a number of great schools like University of Southern California and the University of Los Angeles. This city is home to Hollywood, a district known for hosting movie stars and the Hollywood sign and is also often called the “Creative Capital of the World.” If you’re itching for somewhere to stretch your creative legs and get noticed, LA is a good option for you.
- New York City: If you’ve heard of “The Big Apple” then you’ve heard of New York City. It’s a city full of skyscrapers, bustling people and culture. If you prefer a building skyline to a tree line and honking horns to chirping birds then New York City will capture your heart. There you can see numerous landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, a series of infamous bridges like the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge, Times Square, Ellis Island and Central Park. Whether you walk, take the metro or hire a cab, the vast variety of transportation makes navigating the city as an international student an easy one. New York City also has a number of great schools for international students to choose from including New York University and Columbia University.
- Chicago: Although this Midwestern city is known as the “Windy City,” the weather won’t keep you from experiencing all this city has to offer. By taking the local metro, known as the “L” you can experience Chicago style pizza, take pictures by the bean, hangout at one of the lake beaches or catch a show at the Chicago Theatre.
- Boston: As the largest city in Massachusetts, and the state capital, Boston boasts endless gardens, museums, performing arts centers and theatres. Northeastern University and Boston University are just two schools in Boston you will want to make sure you consider.
- Philadelphia: Home to more public arts than any other US city, the cheesesteak and soft pretzels, you can’t go wrong if you choose to study in Philadelphia! Philadelphia is also home to numerous Fortune 500 companies making your chance of landing a great OPT opportunity pretty good. Check out the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University if you’re considering Philadelphia.
- Austin: If you’re looking for a city that can take you on a path less traveled, Austin is your city. With the motto “Keep Austin Weird” it’s hard to disrupt this city, making adjusting as an international student an easy task. Another perk is that you can save money on bus or metro fair- Walk Score ranked Austin the 35th most walkable city in the US in 2013. If interested in Austin make sure to check out the University of Texas.
If you choose to study in one of these top 6 cities for international students in the USA, make sure you check the insurance requirements of the school you choose to see if one of our plans will meet.
