If you’re planning to hit the books abroad, getting the right student health insurance is not a choice — it’s a necessity. Particularly for Indian students travelling to the US, knowing how healthcare and insurance operate can prevent you from unnecessary expenses and legal problems. In this post, we try to clarify the difference between health insurance in India and international student health insurance in USA, as well as compare costs between what Indian health insurance companies offer and what one needs when studying abroad.
What Is Student Health Insurance and Why Is It Important?
The student insurance is a health insurance policy aimed to cover students from their home country while travelling abroad to accept foreign education. It covers medical care, including doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency services, and, in many cases, mental health treatment.
International student health insurance in USA is typically mandatory for students studying in the U.S. It is a mandatory visa requirement for F1 visa holders, and one of the admission requirements for most US universities. Without appropriate international student insurance, a student may not be allowed to attend classes or receive treatment in the event of illness or injury.
In contrast, health insurance plans available in India are designed for residents within the country. These plans offer coverage for hospitalization, critical illnesses, day-care procedures, and sometimes outpatient treatments. However, they are not applicable or valid for use outside of India.
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Comparing Health Insurance Plans in India and the USA
Indian health insurance plans are built around the country’s healthcare environment. These are policies for individuals and families that provide financial protection against medical emergencies within India. They are relatively affordable because treatment costs in India are lower than in many other countries.
International student health insurance in USA, on the other hand, is specifically created for foreign students living and studying in the United States. These plans comply with visa and university rules and are priced according to the cost of healthcare in the US, which is significantly higher.
Here is a direct comparison of a typical Indian health insurance plan versus an international student insurance plan in the US:
| Feature | Health Insurance in India | International Student Health Insurance in USA |
| Coverage Area | India only | United States (often global) |
| Annual Cost | ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Emergency Care | Covered in India | Covered in US hospitals |
| OPD/Doctor Visits | Sometimes included | Commonly included |
| Mental Health | Limited or add-on | Included in most student plans |
| Dental and Vision | Usually excluded | Optional or partially included |
| Pre-existing Conditions | Often excluded | Covered after waiting period |
| Visa/University Compliance | Not applicable | Meets F1 visa and university health policy |
While Indian health insurance provides excellent value for residents, it does not fulfill the legal and medical requirements for Indian students pursuing higher education in the United States.
Key Differences Between Indian and US Healthcare Systems
The Indian healthcare system includes both public and private services. Government hospitals offer low-cost care but often face long wait times and limited resources. Private hospitals provide faster service and more advanced facilities, but are still far more affordable than healthcare in the US.
Healthcare is also almost entirely privatised in the US. There is no free universal healthcare. It is one of the world’s most expensive places to live. Even a stand-alone consultation can be more than $100, and hospitalization can add up to thousands of dollars. In the US, the cost of routine medical services would be financially crippling for students without health insurance.
That is why international student insurance is not simply a backup plan, but a legal and common-sense tool to allow yourself access to basic care while studying in the US.
How Much Does It Cost?
The price of health insurance is a little different in India and America. Health insurance plans in India range between INR 5000 to INR 25000 per annum for individuals. These are plans that cover hospitalization, select procedures, and sometimes outpatient care, within India.
International student health insurance cost in USA is higher for similar coverage, somewhere between $1,500 to $3,000 per year. This higher price speaks to the high price of health care in the US. However, the coverage is also broader, including doctor visits, lab tests, hospitalization, emergency services, and mental health treatment. Most importantly, it meets university and F1 visa requirements.
Students should plan for this cost well in advance, as it is an essential part of their academic journey abroad.
What Coverage Do Students Need Most?
International student health insurance should be selected based on what matters most during a student’s stay in the US. These are the essential coverage features to look for:
Emergency hospitalization: In case of accidents or sudden illness
Outpatient care: Doctor consultations, lab tests, and prescriptions
Mental health services: Counseling, therapy, and psychiatric treatment
Prescription drugs: Coverage for medications
Dental and vision care: Often optional, but useful for long-term stays
Vaccinations: Required for university enrollment
Maternity care: Important for students planning to stay long-term
These features are included in most international student insurance plans. Indian health insurance plans do not provide these benefits overseas.
Visa and University Insurance Requirements
For Indian students going to the US, international student health insurance is a non-negotiable requirement. Most universities clearly specify the minimum medical coverage students must have. This includes:
- Hospital and outpatient coverage
- Mental health services
- Prescription drug benefits
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
Indian health insurance plans do not fulfill these requirements. If a student attempts to use an Indian policy, the university will likely reject it. Some universities allow students to opt out of their default plan, but only if the alternative international student insurance meets all necessary standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Indian health insurance be used in the USA?
No. Indian health insurance does not provide coverage outside India and cannot be used for medical care in the United States.
What is the cost of international student health insurance in USA?
It typically ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per year, depending on the plan, university, and insurer.
Does international student insurance cover mental health?
Yes. Most international student health insurance plans include mental health services as a standard benefit.
Are dental and vision covered?
These are often included as optional add-ons in international student insurance plans.
Is health insurance mandatory for F1 visa holders?
Yes. Students must have health insurance that complies with university and visa rules to enroll and stay in the US legally.
Conclusion
Health insurance in India is ideal for individuals residing in India, but it does not meet the needs of students studying abroad. For Indian students going to the USA, international student health insurance is essential. It ensures compliance with F1 visa rules, satisfies university health policy, and protects students from high medical costs. Students must choose a plan that offers full coverage and is accepted by their academic institution. Making the right insurance choice early can help students stay safe and financially secure throughout their studies abroad.
