Health

Unlike other countries, the United States does not provide socialized medicine. Because medical care can be very expensive, it is important to have health insurance, even if the school does not require it.

Health Insurance

International students should note that in addition to tuition, fees, room and board, and living expenses, they will have to pay for health insurance. US law requires universities to verify that international students on a J-1 visa (and their J-2 dependents) have health insurance before allowing them to enroll. The federal government does not require students on an F-1 visa to have health insurance, but the school may set its own requirements. Many schools require all international

students to have health insurance, regardless of the type of visa.

If health insurance is required, it must meet certain minimum standards set by the United States Information Agency (USIA). These standards include:

• Maximum deductible of $500 per accident or illness.

• Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness.

• Repatriation benefits of at least $7,500.

• Medical evacuation benefits of at least $10,000.

• Co-insurance not to exceed 25% of the covered medical expenses.

Your school will probably offer a group health insurance program to students who do not have their own health insurance.