When traveling far from home, protect yourself and your stuff.
Go smart… go from here.
You've packed your MP3 player, new clothes, and even extra socks, but believe it or not, those aren't the most important things that should be on your list. Did you pack INSURANCE?
Health Insurance
Visiting the doctor's office while you're abroad is probably not in your plans, but what if you get sick? Or hurt? Did you know that a medical evacuation will cost very heft price or more if you aren't insured?
Health and safety are important concerns when far away from home. Before your departure, it's a good idea to learn as much as you can about the health care and insurance options available to you while you are overseas. As eye exams, glasses and contact lens and dental services are not usually covered by student health insurance plans, it's a good idea to take care of these things before you leave India.
Most colleges and universities in the U.S. require that international students have health insurance coverage before they are allowed to enroll in classes due to the high cost of medical services in the U.S. In addition, many colleges and universities may require you to submit physical and mental fitness evaluation forms and/or proof of immunizations. Always check on these things before you leave India.
In some cases, you may be required to purchase the college or university's health insurance plan, and in other cases, you may be able to waive their plan if you present proof of your health plan from India, provided it covers you for major accident and illness (hospitalization) while you are in the U.S. Be sure to check with your school to be sure that your coverage from home is adequate. Either way, it is a good idea to purchase a travel insurance plan to cover you against any illness or unforeseen circumstances during your travel and first few weeks of your stay in the United States.
Average Costs of Student Health Insurance Plans
School health insurance plan costs vary, with the lowest being about USD $600 a year and the more expensive plans costing up to USD $1,500 a year. These plans usually cover all medical services and also provide access to free counseling and support services, as well as workshops and use of a health library online. Again, if you decide to waive the university's plan, be sure that the health insurance plan you purchase provides adequate coverage and meets the university's requirements.
Travel Insurance
You've been looking forward to your time abroad for a long time. Imagine the exciting cultures! And all the new people! Now, imagine your horror when you learn your trip has been canceled due to severe weather. Or, what if your new set of luggage-with all your clothes-gets lost along the way? A number of unexpected things could put a damper on your travels.
Safeguard your trip and your belongings with travel insurance! This kind of policy can provide protection if:
- You get sick
- You are involved in a car accident
- Severe weather or a natural disaster causes travel cancellations
Other provisions of travel insurance usually include lost baggage coverage, missed flight connections and cancellation charges imposed by airlines. You have invested a lot of time and money into this once-in-a-lifetime experience-don't leave anything to chance!
Several private organizations will provide medical information and insurance for overseas travelers. Most charge a fee for this service. The list of service providers is FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY and in no way constitutes an endorsement, expressed or implied, by the Department of State.
In addition, for basic insurance to cover sickness, accident and other emergencies while traveling outside the United States students and teachers can purchase international student or teacher identity cards. There are additional benefits to having a student card, including discounts on admissions, transportation, and accommodations. You can find more information about student identity cards online.
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