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Archive for the ‘Study Abroad’ Category
Saturday, January 21st, 2012
South Korea has become well known around the world for its cars, consumer electronics and even their pop culture. For this reason it’s not hard to imagine why it is one of the top study abroad destinations in the East Asia region, 3rd after China and Japan. In the year 2009/2010 there was over 2,000 U.S. students studying abroad in Korea according to the most recent Open Doors Report.
In the past few decades the economy of South Korea has grown remarkably and today it is ranked number 13th as the largest in the world based on GDP. Today, Korean is a major world player in the high-tech electronic industry and is famous for its consumer electronic brands such as Samsung and LG which makes products like HDTVs and smart phones. Not only that, Korean popular culture such as music, TV dramas and movies have brought even more interest to the country from across the world.
Just like any study abroad program, there is a chance that you may become sick or injured while overseas. All Koreans have a Korean national health insurance. However, if you are a foreigner you are ineligible unless you will be staying in Korea for more than one year. If you plan on staying less than one year, our insurance for study abroad in Korea would be able to provide you coverage in case you get hurt or injured while you are abroad. The plan covers doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medication and more. If you plan on taking short trips to visit neighboring countries like China or Japan our insurance for study abroad in Korea plan will also covers you there as well.
So if your school or government is not already providing you with insurance, prepare in advance by purchasing an insurance for study abroad in Korea. If you have any questions about insurance for your upcoming trips feel free to contact us at any time.
Tags: Insurance for korea, Insurance for Study Abroad in Korea, Korea Travel Insurance
Posted in Country Requirements, Health & Safety, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Saturday, January 7th, 2012
As you prepare for your trip and pack your suitcase, you often think about the weather and what you plan to wear. If the weather is cold, you will need to bring a sweater or jacket. Or, if you are traveling to a warm place, you may need your swimming suit. You may also think of your toothbrush and shampoo, along with any gifts for anyone you’re visiting. However, most people will never think about what they may need in case they get sick. It is a good idea when traveling abroad that you pack a travel health kit. Below are some tips if you are going to be traveling with medication.
While most countries will have medication to treat minor symptoms like aches and pains, it is likely that the name of the medication will be different than what you are used to, the language may be in a different language or the dosage might be different. Traveling with medication will save you the time and the trouble of trying to find the right medication when you really need to have it. Here are some over the counter medications that you should think of bring on your trip:
- For digestive issues – Especially if you are traveling to a country that serves food you are not used to, if you are prone to indigestion or if you are traveling to country where food hygiene is low, you’ll want to bring:
- Anti-diarrheal
- Antacid
- Laxative
- For colds, fever and pain:
- Decongestant
- Pain killer/fever reducer such as ibuprofen
- Cough drops
- For minor injuries:
- Antibacterial ointments or creams
- Bandages
- Aloe gel for sunburns
- Others
- Antihistamine for allergy
- Hydrocortisone cream for itchiness
- Motion sickness medication
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Travel Insurance ID card
If you are traveling with medication prescribed by your doctor, make sure you have it in the original container from the doctor/pharmacy that is clearly labeled. Also pack copies of your prescriptions and preferably also a letter from your physician describing what your medicine is and what it is for. Some countries may also have restriction on certain medications, so be sure to check with your embassy before traveling.
Lastly, don’t pack these items in your checked luggage, if the airline lost your bag, you don’t want to be left without your important medications.
Tags: packing prescription medication, travel with medicine, Traveling with Medication
Posted in Health & Safety, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Monday, December 26th, 2011
John Wayne, corn and a growing number of Chinese international students; what do these three things have in common? They all have ties to Iowa. Iowa has not been left out of states with a rising number of Chinese students in the US. The growing number of undergraduate Chinese students in Iowa lead to an enrollment increased of 1,700 percent at University of Iowa and 657 percent at Iowa State University over the past five years according to The Gazette in Cedar Rapids.
The trend has become so popular that Chinadaily.com.cn reached out to these Chinese individuals in one article last month to offer them tips on applying to American Universities. Although studying in Iowa was not among their suggestions, studying in California was. Other tips include looking into applying at state universities and smaller colleges and taking standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT, even when the tests are not required to apply.
How have universities adjusted to this increase in undergraduate Chinese students in Iowa? A few of Iowa’s schools are increasing staff in areas affected by this growth such as advisers, counselors and other individuals to assist with orientation and language programs.
With the growing number of Chinese students in Iowa who speak English as a second language, ISU has buckled down to ensure their English proficiency tests are working for the students as much as possible. Instead of a test that allows for memorization and an easy pass, ISU now has a test with both writing and speaking sections to ensure students actually have the level of English that is reflected in their test results so they will receive a proper placement.
Chinese students in Iowa and other locations around the US will more than likely be in need of health insurance during their studies. The Student Secure plan offers international student health insurance to those who are studying outside their home country. If you would like more information regarding this plan please feel free to contact one of our licensed agents.
Tags: Chinese students in Iowa, international student health insurance, study abroad health insurance
Posted in Study Abroad | No Comments »
Monday, November 21st, 2011
There is no doubt that the world is interconnected globally. As people begin speaking multiple languages, businesses expand internationally, and families hold multiple citizenships – there is no question that education needs to keep pace. Today, many colleges and universities are placing their resources into expanding study abroad programs and recruiting international students.
Not only does this expansion provide a diverse student body, but it gives students the opportunity to gain exposure in a world that requires international experience to succeed. Students will now be able to learn a new language, see how business is conducted over international boundaries, and develop lifelong relationships around the world.
If that is not enough of a benefit, a recent study found that students who study abroad are more likely to graduate on time. At the University of Texas, 60% of students who did a study abroad program completed their degree in four years. Only 45% of students who did not study abroad were able to complete their degree in time.
Ironically, many students choose not to study abroad as they think that it will cause them to delay graduation. However, according to the research at the University of Texas, the data shows the opposite.
While the study did not look into an explanation for this, there are many reasons to explain this. The most compelling is that students who study abroad may spend more time putting together a 4-year outline to make sure that they are able to graduate on time. Studying abroad usually requires foresight, taking into consideration costs, scheduling, and planning.
What are some of the benefits that you’ve experienced while studying abroad? Did you find it hard to finish your degree on time? Let us know your thoughts on this study.
Tags: Faster Graduation Studying abroad, Study Abroad Means Faster Graduation
Posted in Study Abroad | No Comments »
Friday, November 18th, 2011
Let’s say you are planning to study abroad in the near future and you paid your tour cost, your plane ticket, etc. What would happen if you no longer can go on your trip? What would happen to your money for your plan/ train ticket that you already paid for?
This is where trip cancellation comes in! Trip cancellation is designed to cover your prepaid non-refundable losses in case you have to cancel your trip. While every trip cancellation plan is different, many trip cancellation policies cover cancellation due to sickness and injury, death of primary insured or immediate family members, bad weather, travel provider going out of business, etc. Trip cancellation protects you against losing your non-refundable expenses that you paid for if you have to cancel your trip. While trip cancellation benefits usually disclose a list of reasons for canceling, some plans allow you to include the cancel for any reason benefit so that you can cancel for an unlisted reason.
Trip interruption is similar to trip cancellation but it provides protection once you have already begun your travel. If you need to return home due to substantial destruction to your home, or an immediate family member’s death, trip interruption benefit will reimburse you – or it may also cover your plane flight home.
If you want to protect yourself against losing money on your traveling expenses, consider our trip cancellation insurance plan. Our trip cancellation also provides other benefits like trip interruption, trip delay, lost baggage and more. If you have any questions about trip cancellation insurance or other insurance needs, feel free to contact our international insurance specialist.
Tags: cancellation insurance, flight cancellation insurance, Travel Insurance, trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption insurance
Posted in Insurance Explained, Product Information, Study Abroad, Travel Insurance | No Comments »
Monday, November 7th, 2011
When choosing where you want to study abroad, many students look for a warm, tropical, diverse country that is friendly and welcoming. That being said, it is no surprise that Costa Rica ranks in the top 10 primary travel destinations for study abroad students.
If you are one of the 6,363 students who did a study abroad program last year, then it comes as no surprise as to why Costa Rica is a popular place for students. Not only do students have the opportunity to learn Spanish, but students will learn in a tourist-friendly country, with access to some of the world’s most precious diversity. National parks, white (or even black!) sandy beaches and fresh food year round, how could anyone pass up this once in a lifetime opportunity?
If you plan on studying in Costa Rica, it’s important to do your research before boarding the plane. While Costa Rica is one of the more developed countries in Central America, no traveler should go overseas without insurance in place. The Costa Rica Study Abroad insurance has been specifically designed to cover you in Costa Rica whether you are sick, injured, or even if your bag is lost in transit.
We all know that Costa Rica is an adventurer’s paradise where you can see the rainforest canopy by zip line or catch your breath as you brave the turbulent water while you go white water rafting. The Costa Rica study abroad insurance gives you the option to add the optional sports rider if you plan on doing extreme activities. Don’t let your insurance plan hold you back from taking advantage of all the opportunities that come your way!
Health care in Costa Rica is public for the Ticos (also known as Costa Ricans), but is at a foreign visitor’s expense. Prepare for the time you spend in Costa Rica, get a Costa Rica study abroad insurance if your school doesn’t already provide insurance for you.
If you plan on studying in Costa Rica, you’ll soon understand the phrase “Pura Vida” – and incorporate it into your every day speech!
Tags: Costa Rica Study Abroad Insurance
Posted in Study Abroad | 1 Comment »
Monday, October 24th, 2011
“Bienvenidos a España!”
Are these the words you are dreaming about? The chance to study in Spain is a unique opportunity where you can learn about the diverse region we know today as Spain. With over 46 million people, Spain is home to a variety of regional identities including Basques, Catalans, Galicians, and Castilians just to name a few. If you are looking to learn Spanish – or perhaps the second most commonly spoken language, Catalan – Spain may just be the perfect study abroad location for you.
Before you plan on departing your home country to explore this diversity, you will need to consider purchasing Spain Study Abroad Insurance. This plan will cover you outside your home country, even if you decide to spend your weekends taking advantage of the inexpensive transportation that will enable you to travel Europe with ease and flexibility.
Entrance to the country can be quite difficult if you are not properly prepared. You will need to present coverage of your Spain Study Abroad Insurance showing that you meet the minimum requirements specified by the Spanish government. Most consulates require that your Spain Study Abroad insurance plan have a minimum coverage of 30,000 euros with repatriation included.
The Atlas Travel plan is designed to cover you educational studies overseas in Spain, as well as outside your home country. Not only does the plan meet the minimum requirements of 30,000 euros with repatriation as an included benefit, but you’ll be able to get a customized visa letter immediately that you can present as proof of coverage. By having everything at your finger tips, you can rest assured that you are in proper hands no matter what situation you face overseas. The plan provides translation services around the clock, and includes coverage for sicknesses such as colds and the flu as well as major emergencies that include hospitalization, emergency room visits, urgent care, and much more.
Tags: Spain Study Abroad Insurance
Posted in Study Abroad | No Comments »
Monday, October 10th, 2011
With its beautiful beaches, lush jungles, exotic culture, rich history and delicious food, Thailand is known as a great vacation destination of the world. While these reasons bring many tourists, the same reasons also bring many students seeking an exciting and unique study abroad experience as well.
It is important to keep in mind that health care in each country is unique and the same goes for Thailand. If you are coming from the Unites States or other western country it is a good idea to be aware of how the health care system works beforehand.
The majority of people arrive in Thailand via the capital city, Bangkok, where most of the major universities are also located. There are many clinics and hospitals in the city as well, but private clinics may not be staffed with English speaking professionals. For most foreigners, the best option may be to visit a general hospital which in most cases is a private hospital. While they are usually more expensive, they are more accustomed to treating foreigner and are often equipped with state of the art medical equipment.
If you decide to study or travel to a more remote area of the country, language barriers may be an issue if you do not speak Thai or if you do not have someone who can translate for you. Most sicknesses or injuries can be treated in the local facilities, but if you need emergency care that would require more specialized treatment, you may need to be medically evacuated to a nearby major city. This is especially true for the poor North Eastern region of the country where the ratio of doctor is 1:7251 according to the World Health Organization‘s 2002 data.
It is important to protect yourself with a private health insurance while you are studying abroad in Thailand since there is no free national health care system. Our international student insurance for Thailand will be able to provide medical coverage in case you get sick or injured during your time abroad, it also includes benefit for emergency medical evacuation and also translation service available 24/7! If you have more questions, feel free to contact our international insurance agents at any time!
Tags: international student insurance, study abroad insurance, study in Thailand, study in Thailand insurance, Thai study abroad insurance
Posted in Health & Safety, Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad | No Comments »
Monday, October 3rd, 2011
Alberta, like all provinces in Canada, provides universal health care for their citizens and permanent residents that is publically administered and funded. Alberta’s health care system known as the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) is available to international students studying in Alberta for 12 months or longer.
To be eligible for the AHCIP, foreign students must register within 3 months of arrival in Alberta by presenting your Study Permit and your Temporary Resident Visa. AHCIP will cover basic services like hospital costs, doctor visits, and laboratory tests; however it does not cover prescription drugs, rehabilitation needs, dental services or ambulance transport. Because of this, some international students will purchase a private medical insurance plan for Canada to ensure that out-of-pocket expenses are minimized. Additionally, if you are not eligible for the AHCIP, then your school may or may not provide you with a mandatory insurance plan. Before arriving in Alberta, it is important to contact your school about insurance options as a Chinese international student.
If you will be studying in Alberta for less than 12 months and your school does not have a mandatory insurance plan, you may want to consider purchasing your own private student health insurance since you will be responsible for any costs related to medical treatment. Because of this, many schools recommend having coverage begin as soon as you arrive so that you will be fully insured for the duration of your studies.
Tags: Chinese Student Health Insurance in Alberta, foreign student insurance in alberta, student health insurance in alberta
Posted in Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad, Visa Requirements | No Comments »
Monday, September 26th, 2011
New Brunswick is a province in Canada that is located on the eastern shoreline. Like with the other provinces in Canada, New Brunswick offers national health care to its citizens and permanent residence called the New Brunswick Medicare. If you are an international student studying in New Brunswick, whether a student from another province or country, you are not eligible for the New Brunswick Medicare.
Instead, if you are a Chinese international student in New Brunswick, you will need to purchase a separate policy to cover you while studying in Canada. If you do not have an insurance plan in place, you will be expected to pay for medical treatment and expenses out-of-pocket. To cut down on your expenses, you should first contact your school to see whether they have a mandatory insurance plan in place.
Some schools will allow you to choose your own student insurance plan if you are able to provide proof of insurance upon arrival. Other schools will leave students on their own to purchase insurance. Other universities may build insurance into the tuition without the option to waive out. In any of these cases, it is important to find out what your school offers, what options you have, and what type of benefits are included in your plan.
Tags: Chinese Student Health Insurance in New Brunswick, Foreign Student Insurance in New Brunswick, Student Health Insurance in New Brunswick
Posted in Student Health Insurance, Student Insurance, Study Abroad, Visa Requirements | No Comments »
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