Start with school rules
Many US colleges and universities require international students to carry school-approved health insurance. Some allow waivers if a private plan meets specific requirements.
Do not buy a cheap visitor policy before checking the school's waiver rules, deductible limits, mental health benefits, maternity coverage, and provider network.
Marketplace and immigration status
Some lawfully present immigrants may be eligible to use the Marketplace. Eligibility depends on immigration status, state, income, and rules at the time of application.
Students should verify with HealthCare.gov, a state marketplace, the school, or a licensed professional.
Questions to ask
- Is this coverage category available for my location, age, residency status, and enrollment window?
- Which doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, labs, and imaging centers are in network?
- What deductible, copays, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum could apply?
- Are prescriptions, referrals, prior authorization, or medical records required?
- What should I get in writing before I enroll, travel, or schedule care?
Red flags
- A salesperson avoids written plan documents or official carrier links.
- The pitch focuses only on monthly premium and skips deductible, network, exclusions, and maximum exposure.
- Someone says a doctor, hospital, country, or procedure is covered without written verification.
- A limited-benefit, short-term, travel, or discount product is described like full major medical insurance.
Official sources to verify
Next step
Use the navigator to organize your situation, then verify plan-specific details with official sources, insurers, employer benefits teams, or licensed professionals.