The choice of the right health insurance is a crucial part of planning your studies in the USA. The American healthcare system differs fundamentally from the systems in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, and the costs for medical treatment are significantly higher in the USA. International students are required to obtain a suitable health insurance policy that meets the requirements of the university and the US healthcare system for the entire duration of their stay in the USA. This guide will tell you what options are available to you, how the American insurance system works, and what you should look out for when making your selection.
The US healthcare system is largely privately organized, making it often confusing and expensive. Without suitable health insurance, even simple medical treatments can quickly cost several thousand US dollars. Health insurance therefore serves as protection to shield you from extremely high costs and to ensure that you receive the necessary medical care in the event of an accident or illness.
Many universities require their international students to provide proof of health insurance before completing enrollment. This requirement exists not only to protect the students, but is also a requirement of the US immigration authorities. This means: without health insurance, you cannot start your studies or successfully apply for your visa.
International students basically have two options to insure themselves during their studies in the USA:
Most American universities offer their own health insurance programs that are specifically tailored to the needs of international students. These insurance policies are generally aligned with the requirements of the university and cover the most important medical services. In most cases, enrollment in the university's health insurance is simple and is either done automatically during the registration process or in a separate step via the university's website.
Advantages of a university-provided health insurance:
Easy enrollment: The registration is usually automatic or directly connected to the enrollment process.
Customized coverage: The insurance benefits correspond to the university's requirements and typically cover all necessary treatments.
Broad acceptance: These insurance policies are accepted by all affiliated healthcare providers, which minimizes the effort and costs in an emergency.
There is also the option to take out insurance through an external provider. In this case, it is important to ensure that the insurance meets the minimum requirements of the university. Many universities require students to complete a so-called "waiver" (exemption application) in order to use an external insurance policy. This application must be approved by the university and requires detailed information about the coverage benefits of the external insurance.
Advantages of an external health insurance:
Flexibility: You can choose an insurance plan that is precisely tailored to your needs.
Potentially more affordable: In some cases, external providers offer lower rates or specialized packages for international students.
Disadvantages:
The waiver approval process is often lengthy, and the university only accepts external insurance in rare cases.
There may be limitations on medical services, as the coverage may not meet all the university's requirements.
We generally recommend choosing the university's own health insurance, if possible. This option is often the safest and most convenient way to meet the university's requirements and receive quick and uncomplicated assistance in the event of illness.
Why the university-provided insurance?
Easy registration: The registration is usually automatic during the enrollment process and requires little additional effort.
Optimal protection: The insurance policies are specifically tailored to the needs of students and include all necessary services.
Good network affiliation: University insurance policies often work closely with doctors and hospitals located in close proximity to the campus.
Most university-provided health insurance policies offer comprehensive coverage that includes the following services:
Outpatient and inpatient treatment
Mental health care and counseling
Emergency care and hospital stays
Prescription medications
Preventive care and routine check-ups
The specific services may vary depending on the university. Therefore, inform yourself early on the university's website about the exact scope of coverage.
To better understand the various health insurance policies in the USA, you should be familiar with the following terms:
Premium: The amount you pay regularly for your insurance coverage. These payments are usually made monthly, semi-annually, or annually.
Deductible: The amount you have to pay out-of-pocket before the insurance covers the costs. Example: With a $500 deductible, you pay the first $500 of medical expenses before the insurance kicks in.
Co-Pay: A fixed fee you pay for each doctor's visit, medication purchase, or treatment, e.g. $20 per doctor's visit. This fee is charged in addition to the deductible.
Co-Insurance: A percentage-based cost sharing. With an 80/20 coverage, the insurance pays 80% of the costs, and you cover the remaining 20% after you have paid the deductible.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The maximum amount you have to pay annually for medical expenses. Once you reach this amount, the insurance covers all further costs fully.
In-Network Providers: Doctors and clinics that have a contract with your insurance. Treatments with these providers are less expensive.
Out-of-Network Providers: Doctors and clinics without a contract with the insurance. These treatments are more expensive, and the insurance often only covers a small portion of the costs.
In addition to health insurance, liability insurance is highly recommended. Liability insurance protects you if you accidentally cause damage to other people's property or persons. In the USA, claims for damages and legal costs are often very high, so liability insurance is a useful supplement. It typically covers the costs for:
Damage to rental properties (e.g. water damage you cause)
Accidents in everyday life where persons or property are damaged
Legal costs and claims for damages
Choosing the right health insurance is an important step to start your studies in the USA carefree. Our team is happy to support you in finding the best option to meet your university's requirements and provide you with comprehensive coverage. Whether university-provided or external insurance - the key is that you understand the coverage and are well cared for in an emergency.
Contact us if you have any questions or need help selecting the right insurance. Smarthlete is here to help you ensure that you can start your studies with the right insurance coverage.