• 18
  Nov
  2009

• Insurance Filters Out Some Strain of Unemployment

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
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A new study has confirmed what common sense probably tells us already: A large percentage of young adults—nearly 30%—lack any sort of health insurance. Most of these are students, who until now, have been under a generic or international student health insurance plan.

Many young adults just out of college have the option of switching back to their parents’ policy once they graduate. Unfortunately, international students who stay on in the United States during the Optional Training Period are unable to do that. What they require is special OPT insurance that will cover them until they receive regular insurance.

Some colleges offer their sponsored plan for an extended “grace” period to recent grads, but the rates are typically higher. If looking for just a stop-gap arrangement, short-term health insurance plans such as Study USA Plan A and Plan B, Global Student USA, and Student Secure plans offer comprehensive coverage.

Coverage to look out for includes prescription drugs and accident benefits. It is very important to stay insured, regardless of the financial situation that a student is in. Just one misstep or accident can prove extremely expensive and can shatter the dreams of an international student.

• 17
  Nov
  2009

• Insurance Assistance for Graduate Assistants

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
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International student health insurance need not always form a large part of a student’s expenses. Depending on the plan chosen, and the financial aid available to students, the student may end up paying less than $100 a month, in some cases.

Typically, students will be required to purchase student health insurance before they enroll for their first semester classes. Some schools have different coverage for international and local students, and most require students to provide proof of comparable coverage if they want to decline the colleges-sponsored plan.

Other plans are available in the market, often at lower rates than the college-sponsored plan. Carefully consider your needs and requirements before purchasing outside insurance. In some cases, a student is eligible for assistantship or aid in the second semester or year. In this case, the college usually pays a substantial amount of the insurance premium.

Most colleges subsidize the premiums paid only if the plan chosen is the college-sponsored plan. Some schools also provide cash benefit in lieu of the insurance premium. Check the details of your assistantship award with your department. Ask questions about your insurance benefits before choosing a health plan for the year or semester.

• 16
  Nov
  2009

• Patriotic About Insurance: Plans for Exchange Students

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
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Exchange student insurance plans are usually short-term economic plans designed to cover all the basic benefits that a student might need. One such plan is the Patriot Exchange Insurance plan. Those involved in an educational or cultural exchange program through a sponsor, their spouses and dependent children are all eligible for the plan. It is best for short exchange programs for up to six months.

The plan comes in two types: Basic and Standard. The Basic plan is the less expensive of the two, and the Standard plan features all the benefits that are stipulated by the United States Department of State. The policy maximum offered is $500,000.

Both plans offer typical short-term travel insurance benefits such as inpatient and outpatient care, emergency care, emergency evacuation to the nearest medical center that can provide appropriate care, accidental death and dismemberment, and repatriation of remains.

Optional benefits such as lost baggage, legal assistance, and personal liability add-on coverage can be purchased along with the plan. The plan can be purchased monthly, and on purchase of three months' coverage, can be renewed for up to 24 months. The plan is underwritten by Sirius International, and administered by International Medical Group.

• 13
  Nov
  2009

• Studies May Cover Foreign Countries; Does Your Insurance?

  
  Filed Under: Health Insurance
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When a student, life can truly look like an endless struggle pinching pennies. But some costs, like study abroad insurance when studying outside your country, may seem like a good way to save money, while being an extremely useful expense. Study abroad insurance is necessary to stay safe and make the most of a study abroad program.

Study abroad insurance is available for less than a price of a cup of coffee a day. It does not represent a huge cost, but provides coverage in case the going gets tough and unexpected medical expenses come your way. Remember that your body is more susceptible to infections and illnesses when abroad.

There are several ways to save money when studying abroad. For one, a student ID card, more specifically, an International Student ID Card, called ISIC, helps you save money at a lot of places. Over a period of time, it might end up saving you hundreds of dollars. Also remember to go slow on shopping for the first few days, or until you are familiar with the lay of the land.

Also, across most of the world, public transport connects cities well. Buy yourself a map and get familiar with the transportation system. It is a fun way to get to know the city as well. You’ll be surprised how much money you’ll be able to save, perhaps enough to purchase several insurance policies!