Planning for Overseas Health

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.

Planning for Overseas Health
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.