Health Insurance for Overseas Students
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Best health insurance for overseas students
Studying abroad is an exciting journey filled with opportunities to explore a new country, make new friends and experience a different culture. However, it can be challenging if you fall ill during your studies. Private health insurance for overseas students covers unexpected medical treatments while you are away from home, offering peace of mind throughout your adventure.
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We offer completely free and no-obligation advice on private health insurance for overseas students. Our experienced advisors will take the stress away from you and do all the hard work in finding you the best Provider by comparing quotes with the top leading providers in the market. We have worked directly with AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality for over 40 years, we have been tailor-making the best private health insurance for over 60s UK.
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How does health insurance for international students work?
Health insurance for overseas students is a health plan that helps cover the cost of unexpected medical treatments during your stay in a foreign country. In the UK, it works the same way as usual private health insurance. You pay a monthly fee, known as a premium, which ensures that you are financially protected if you develop sudden illnesses or acute medical conditions after your policy starts.
What does overseas student medical insurance cover?
Health insurance policy for students covers all treatments that occur after the policy begins. It is a flexible product tailored to fit your financial needs. You can choose from three levels of coverage, Basic (Core) Cover, Mid-Range Cover and Comprehensive Cover. Let’s break down each option:
Basic (Core) Cover
With the Basic health plan, you will rely partially on NHS services as it does not include outpatient cover. However, it provides full inpatient and day-patient cover, meaning you will be treated for minor and major treatments at private hospitals or private wings of NHS hospitals. For instance, if you develop back pain and need to see a doctor, you will first consult an NHS doctor for diagnosis. If treatment is required, your health insurance will cover the costs after you pay the agreed excess.
Mid-Range Cover
The Mid-Range plan typically includes some outpatient cover, usually up to three consultations, along with full inpatient and day-patient cover. With insurers like Vitality and The Exeter, you can add full diagnostics for an extra fee. For example, if you experience back pain, your GP will refer you to a private consultant. Your consultant will carry out diagnostics, and if treatment is necessary, it will be fully covered. However, outpatient consultations and diagnostics are limited, so you may have to pay extra if you need more than three visits.
Comprehensive Cover
The Comprehensive plan gives you unlimited cover for inpatient, outpatient, and diagnostic treatments. For example, if you have back pain, you can see a private consultant, get tests done and receive treatment without worrying about limits or extra costs. Although this plan can be more expensive, it removes the stress of paying when you need to make a claim.
Our expert says…
“ Studying abroad can be challenging, but having a reliable international medical insurance plan can help ease some of the stress “
Underwriting Options
As an international student, you have two underwriting options:
Full Medical Underwriting, you must declare all your medical history from the very beginning. This option allows you to know exactly what is covered and what is excluded from the policy right from the start.
The Moratorium underwriting option is more common. It excludes any pre-existing conditions you have had in the past 5 years for the next two years, as long as you are free from symptoms, medications and treatments during this period.
What is not covered?
Overseas health insurance for students in the UK often excludes or offers limited treatments for:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Chronic conditions (diabetes, asthma etc)
- Self-harm injuries
- Drugs and alcohol abuse treatment
- Pregnancy and childbirth (except for complications)
- Cosmetic surgery (unless medically necessary)
Do international students need health insurance?
International students do not need private medical insurance since they pay the NHS surcharge, which is £1,000 per calendar year. For a 3-year course, you will need to pay £3,000 for NHS treatments during your stay. This surcharge is a UKBA requirement and you must comply with it in order to obtain a visa to study in the UK. However, if you prefer not to rely on the NHS’s long waiting times, you can opt for private health insurance. With a health insurance policy you get quicker access to medical treatments, recover from injuries faster and continue your studies without worry.
How to choose the right health insurance for international students?
Finding the right health insurance as an international student does not have to be complicated. Here’s what you need to know.
Domestic health insurance in the UK
If you choose domestic health insurance, you need to register with an NHS GP and plan to stay in the UK for at least six months. You do not have to share medical information unless you select the FMU option. Think about the benefits and costs to make sure the plan works for you. A broker can make this easier by helping you pick the best plan and guiding you through the process.
International health insurance for students
If you prefer international health insurance, check that it covers the country where you live and any others you plan to visit. Many students travel during their studies, so your plan should also cover activities like skiing or other sports if you plan to try them. International insurance can be more expensive, but it often includes pre-existing conditions and works worldwide.
How to customise your policy?
You can change many parts of your policy to match your needs. For example, you can choose your excess (the amount you pay before your claim), the hospitals you prefer and extra benefits like dental, mental health or travel cover. Higher excesses lower your monthly payments but mean you will need more money ready if you make a claim. Excess options range from £0 to £3,000, so pick one you are comfortable with.
How to save money?
Our health insurance specialists at PremierPMI can help you find a plan that fits your budget. We can adjust your plan to save money while keeping the most important benefits. The right health insurance will cover you in the UK and when you travel, so you can focus on your studies without stress.
As an international student, I had a great experience with PremieerPMI. They made it easy to understand health insurance and helped me find the right plan for my needs and budget. The team was friendly, helpful, and quick to answer my questions. I highly recommend them for their excellent service.
Grace Wong, Hong Kong
How to apply for health Insurance as an international student in the UK?
Understand UK requirements
As an international student in the UK, you’ll usually get NHS access once you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) with your visa. The NHS covers most health needs. However, you may want private health insurance for extra peace of mind. It can offer faster access to specialists and cover services the NHS does not provide.
Compare your options
It is worth shopping around for private health insurance plans designed for international students. Look at what each plan offers things like mental health support, dental care or emergency repatriation and compare prices to find the right fit for your needs and budget.
Apply online or through a broker
You can apply directly through most insurance companies’ websites, but if you’re feeling unsure, a health insurance broker can help you find the right policy. They’ll guide you through the process, ensuring you pick the best plan for your situation.
Pay the premium
Once you have chosen a plan, it is time to pay. Most insurers offer flexible payment options, like paying all at once or monthly, so you can choose what works best for your budget.
Receive your policy documents
After your application is accepted, you will get your policy documents, including a confirmation of cover and any applied exclusions. Keep these handy, especially when visiting doctors or dealing with visa-related requirements.
Understand your cover
Before you need to use your insurance, take a moment to go through your policy. It’s important to know what is covered and what isn’t. Private health insurance can help you get quicker access to medical services and may cover things the NHS doesn’t, like dental care or specialist treatments. Keep the insurance company’s contact details handy, just in case you need support.
Getting health insurance as an international student in the UK does not have to be complicated. If you are not sure what you need or what is best for you, your university or an expert can help you make the right choice for a stress-free stay in the UK.
How much is health insurance for international students?
The cost of health insurance depends on several factors, such as where you will be studying, your age, smoking status and whether you have any pre-existing conditions. For example, if you’re studying at a university in Manchester, your premium will likely be lower compared to studying in London.
Premiums are generally cheaper for younger students, as they are considered healthier and have a lower risk of claiming. However, if you are a smoker, your premium may increase by up to 10%. Some insurers may raise your premium if you have pre-existing conditions. Below, we have outlined the typical costs for both medical health policies and international health policies.
Cost of UK health insurance for students
| Insurance Provider | London | Manchester | Edinburgh |
|---|---|---|---|
| AXA | £45 | £41 | £38 |
| AVIVA | £48 | £43 | £24 |
| BUPA | £52 | £44 | £29 |
| Vitality Health | £39 | £32 | £26 |
These are average prices based on typical health insurance plans for a healthy, non-smoking 21-year-old with a £100 excess
Cost of Global Health Insurance for Overseas Students
Before discussing premiums for an international health insurance policy, let’s look at the cove and options in a plan like Cigna Global. This will help clarify what you are paying for. It will also give you a clear idea of the plan available when choosing a policy.
The price of Cigna international health insurance in the UK
Now that we have covered the basics of what is included in Cigna Global’s international health insurance, let’s look at some example prices for different age groups. The premiums will depend on the level of cover, the options you choose from and any other specific details such as health condition or region.
| Plan Type | 20 Years Old | 30 Years Old |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Plan | £150 – £220 | £190 – £250 |
| Gold Plan | £200 – £360 | £220 – £400 |
| Platinum Plan | £330 – £590 | £360 – £650 |
These plans are highly flexible and designed to meet the needs of overseas students in the UK.
Why choose PremierPMI as your broker?
Expert Help
PremierPMI offers personalised advice to help you choose the best health insurance plan for your needs.
Wide Range of Options
We work with all insurance providers, giving you plenty of choices to find the right cover at the best price.
Ongoing Support
From choosing your plan to managing it, PremierPMI is there to support you every step of the way.
24/7 Availability
We offer round-the-clock support, so you can get help anytime, whether it is for advice or an emergency.
Help with Claims
Our advisers make it easier to file and manage claims, ensuring you get the reimbursement you are entitled to.
Custom Plans
Our experts help create health insurance plans tailored to your needs, whether you are an individual, a family or a business.
Affordable Solutions
We help you compare different plans to find the best value without sacrificing essential cover.
Global Plans
If you travel or live abroad, PremierPMI offers international health insurance plans to keep you covered wherever you go.
Easy Process
Our advisers simplify the complicated task of choosing and managing health insurance, making it easier for you to make informed decisions.
Summary
In conclusion, health insurance for overseas students is essential for ensuring peace of mind while studying abroad. Whether you choose a basic, mid-range or comprehensive policy, it is important to understand what is included and how it fits your needs. PremierPMI offers expert guidance, a wide range of options, and 24/7 support, making it easier for you to choose the right plan. With affordable and customisable solutions, PremierPMI ensures you get the best health plan without the stress, whether you are staying in the UK or travelling worldwide.
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