Top 5 Cheapest Health Insurance Plans for International Students (2025)
Updated for 2025 – A complete, honest guide to affordable student health insurance options in the U.S.
Moving to the United States for college is exciting—but medical care can be expensive without the right coverage. Whether you’re an international student starting your first semester or a graduate researcher on a budget, having the right health insurance plan is essential. This guide compares five popular and affordable plans available for international students in 2025.
1. ISO Student Health Insurance – Affordable Coverage with Comprehensive Benefits
Highlights:
- Monthly premium from $33 to $60 depending on coverage.
- Meets most U.S. university requirements.
- Includes telemedicine and mental-health coverage.
ISO is one of the most recognized providers for foreign students in the U.S. Plans like ISO Compass Basic and ISO Silver offer a balance between low cost and broad benefits. They are accepted by most universities and allow you to visit any doctor within the UnitedHealthcare network.
2. IMG Patriot Exchange Program – Great for J-1 and F-1 Visa Holders
Highlights:
- Premium starts around $40 per month.
- Coverage limits up to $500,000.
- Meets U.S. State Department requirements for exchange visitors.
The Patriot Exchange plan by IMG (International Medical Group) is ideal for students or scholars participating in exchange programs. It offers emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage—two key requirements for visa holders.
3. Student Secure by WorldTrips – Flexible and University-Friendly Plans
Highlights:
- Four plan levels – Elite, Select, Budget, Smart.
- Monthly cost as low as $31 for Smart plan.
- Meets most university waiver criteria.
Student Secure plans are popular for their customization and clear pricing. Even the Budget plan includes hospitalization, prescriptions, and mental-health benefits. A simple online application and instant ID card make this plan a great fit for new students.
4. Compass Student Insurance – Best for Group and University Partnerships
Highlights:
- Premiums starting at $35 per month.
- Nationwide network of providers.
- Excellent customer support for international students.
Compass Student Insurance focuses on international education markets and partners with many U.S. colleges. Their plans include sports injury coverage and vaccination benefits—great for campus life. The company also offers easy claims processing via a mobile portal.
5. PGH Global Student Health – Premium Protection at Low Rates
Highlights:
- Average cost $45–$55 per month.
- Complies with Affordable Care Act (ACA) guidelines.
- Coverage for vision and dental add-ons.
PGH Global offers plans that closely mirror U.S. domestic coverage. It is especially good for students seeking robust benefits and ACA compliance. They also provide a helpful 24/7 nurse line and multi-language support for new arrivals.
Bonus Tips for Choosing the Right Plan
- Check University Requirements: Some schools require minimum coverage levels for medical evacuation and repatriation.
- Compare Deductibles and Copays: Lower premiums can mean higher deductibles – find a balance that fits your budget.
- Use In-Network Hospitals: Staying within your provider’s network reduces out-of-pocket expenses.
- Keep Digital Copies of ID Cards: Always save insurance documents on your phone for emergencies.
Final Thoughts
Health insurance isn’t just a visa requirement—it’s financial peace of mind. Each plan listed here offers solid coverage at reasonable cost for 2025. Whether you choose ISO for budget value or PGH Global for premium benefits, having a plan in place means you can focus on studies and enjoy life in the U.S. without worry.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify policy details directly with the insurance provider before purchase.
