I'm a Canadian student planning to study in the USA, and I want to make sure I have good international insurance coverage. Can anyone recommend the best options or providers for international student insurance tailored for Canadians?
It's important that you're thinking about health insurance while studying abroad, as healthcare in the US can be quite expensive. Let's look at several insurance providers that could be suitable for your situation.
In terms of popular providers, International Student Insurance (ISI) is often a top choice for international students because they specialize in insurance plans designed for students studying abroad, including plans that meet university and visa requirements. Specifically, their Student Secure plan is widely recognized and offers comprehensive coverage.
ISI's Student Secure plan covers doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, mental health, maternity, and sports injuries, and even includes coverage for COVID-19. The plan comes in four levels (Elite, Select, Budget, and Smart) based on the amount of coverage and deductible you'll receive, so it can be adjusted to fit various budgets and needs.
Another option is Ingle International, which offers a range of student-focused plans and is known for its good customer service. Like ISI, their plans offer comprehensive coverage and include a variety of options to suit different budget levels.
GeoBlue also offers international student health insurance and their plans are comprehensive and specifically cater to students' needs. Their plans can be a bit pricier but they offer wide coverage.
When choosing a plan, keep in mind that it is important to research the exact terms of each plan to ensure it fits your needs and covers your main health concerns. You should also check that the insurance is accepted at the health facilities accessible to you while you're in the US.
Remember to also check with your university, as they may have specific health coverage requirements for international students and might offer their insurance options. Just keep in mind these may be more expensive than independent coverage, so pay close attention to what exactly is being covered before you commit.
Moreover, don't forget to consider the duration of coverage (like whether it covers you during school breaks), the policy on pre-existing conditions, and the process of filing a claim when you compare different insurance plans.
Hope this gives you a starting point in your search. Good luck with your studies in the US!
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