Health Insurance for International Students in Finland
April 12th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
There are a number of great schools within Finland that draw students in each year to complete their studies. Some of the most popular schools in Finland include Aalto University, University of Helsinki, University of Turku, Tampere University of Technology and the University of Oulu. If you will be studying within Finland, whether at one of the universities listed or another, you will need to have international health insurance that will meet the Finnish Government requirements. The amount of insurance coverage that you need will be dependent upon the length of time that you are studying in Finland. Below is a breakdown of health insurance for international students in Finland.
Students in Finland for less than two years
- A deductible of €300 or less
- Coverage of at least €100,000
Students in Finland for more than two years:
- A deductible of €300 or less
- Coverage of at least €30,000
Three plans that international students in Finland purchase to meet the government requirements include:
The Atlas Travel Plan– With this plan you can choose your deductible and coverage amount, this gives you the ability to pick coverage that will match the needed government requirements and your budget. This is the most popular choice for students who will be studying in Finland since students can have the plan for up to three years outside the US.
The Student Secure Plan– You have three comprehensive levels of coverage to choose from with this plan, each one will meet and go beyond the Finnish government requirements. Benefits include maternity, mental health, repatriation of remains, emergency medical evacuation and hospitalization.
Europe Travel– If you are on a tight budget and prefer a Euro priced plan then the Europe Travel may be the best option for you. This plan also has three options for student to choose from- no matter which one you pick they will each meet your mandatory requirements of health insurance for international students in Finland.
If you would like more information on health insurance for international students in Finland contact one of our licensed agents today.
*Finland map and words photo courtesy of Shutterstock
International Student Insurance Plan Updates for 2013
April 5th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
Just in time for Spring, our international student insurance plan updates for 2013 are complete! The Student Secure plan and Atlas Travel plan now offer even more comprehensive coverage for the new 2013-2014 school year at a reduced rate, meaning it is going to give students access to great international insurance options. Both plans have received enhancements offering greater coverage with less out of pocket expense- not only does this provide students with more coverage for less- but now we meet even more school’s insurance requirements. Some of the plan change highlights include the following:
Student Secure Plan: The Student Secure plan is the most sought-after student insurance plan that we carry, and for many reasons. It provides coverage that will meet most school insurance requirements, and goes beyond the coverage basics with benefits like maternity, mental health, organized sports and pre-existing condition coverage.
Each of these levels are now available to those who have a valid F1 or J1 visa- even if they aren’t a full time international student or scholar! Also, the Budget and Select level have both expanded their sports coverage and include even more intercollegiate, intramural and interscholastic sports.
Select
- Deductible reduced to only $25 ($50 out of network)
- ER deductible reduced to only $100
- Pre-existing condition waiting period reduced to only 6 months
- Mental health coverage increased to 80% (60% if out of network)
- Monthly rates as low as $52
Budget
- Deductible reduced to only $45 ($90 out of network)
- Pre-existing condition waiting period reduced to only 6 months
- Local ambulance and repatriation of remains coverage increased
- Monthly rates as low as $36
Smart
- Now includes coverage for acute onset of pre-existing conditions
- Deductible reduced to $50 when in-network or outside the US
- Monthly rates as low as $27
Atlas Travel Plan: The Atlas Travel plan is a great option for students studying outside the US for up to three years and for individuals traveling to the US for less than a year. The Atlas Travel international student insurance plan updates for 2013 include:
- Up to two children can be added to your plan for free, when two parents are on the plan as well
- Individuals 80+ are now able to receive coverage with this plan inside the US
- Cardiovascular benefit limitation removed
You can still purchase both of these plans right online and receive same day coverage. Find out more on the Student Secure, Atlas Travel plan or the international student insurance plan updates for 2013 by contacting one of our licensed agents.
Woman erasing average photo courtesy of Shutterstock
April 2013 Travel Warning
March 29th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
In the month of March the U.S. Department of State issued seven travel warnings for countries around the world as listed in this April 2013 travel warning report. If you will be traveling, make sure you are aware of countries with a current dangerous or unstable condition warning by checking out the April 2013 travel warning list.
Travel Warning in Syria- Issued March 1, 2013: This warning is to supersede the travel warning issued in August 2012 for Syria. Syria remains consistently dangerous throughout the entirety of the country, through hostile acts, terrorist attacks and kidnappings. Public areas such as shopping plazas and government buildings are amongst the highest targets for terrorist attacks. Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in Damascus is unable to protect or assist U.S. citizens as they suspended operations in February 2012. Individuals are advised to contact the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Damascus for assistance.
Travel Warning in Libya- Issued March 11, 2013: The travel warning for Libya issued September 2012 has been superseded by this latest warning as this country remains unstable and violent- travelers are strongly advised to avoid travel to Libya in all but essential travel instances. Those who must travel to Libya are advised to have an emergency plan and to remain aware at all times as violence is sporadic.
Travel Warning in Tunisia- Issued March 13, 2013: This travel warning is to replace the warning issued October 19, 2012 to provide updated information on the current status within Tunisia. The ordered departure is no longer in place, however, safety within this country remains unstable with sporadic acts of violence, especially amongst large crowds and demonstrations. Additionally, since December 2012 security forces within Tunisia have conducted raids to confiscate large armed weapons- several individuals have been arrested and one killed during these missions.
Travel Warning in Sudan- Issued March 13, 2013: The previous ordered departure status has been lifted meaning all U.S. government personnel are permitted to return to Sudan at this time. However, the terrorist threat is still critical and U.S. citizens are urged to avoid travel to the Darfur region of Sudan, the Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan States.
Travel Warning in Guinea- Issued March 14, 2013: Although Guinea has been relatively calm since December 2010, a recent protest turned violent leading to nine deaths and hundreds of others injured. Visitors are warned to exercise caution when in Guinea, stay in contact with individuals back home and to carry their travel documents with them at all times.
Travel Warning in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea- Issued March 14, 2013: A warning to North Korea still remains in effect as serious risks are associated with those traveling to the DPRK. Individuals may be fined, arrested or imprisoned for illegally entering Korea (without a valid passport and valid DPRK visa) or for other illegal acts that may not be considered illegal in other countries including taking unauthorized photos, exchanging currency with unauthorized vendors and unauthorized attempts to speak directly to North Korean citizens.
Travel Warning in Mali- Issued March 22, 2013: As fighting in northern Mali continues so does the travel warning for individuals interested in visiting Mali. Other risks include fluid political conditions and threats of attacks and kidnappings of westerners. Visitors are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, remain aware and to take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
These warnings are the April 2013 travel warnings as reported in the month of March. If you are an avid traveler, check back each month for the latest travel warnings issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Warning stamp photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Top 5 Healthiest Foods While Studying Abroad
March 22nd, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
The food that you put into your mouth does more than fill your belly, it fuels your whole body. The way your body functions reflects the quality of the food you consume, poor diet choices can lead to poor functioning while healthy diet choices can help your body work as best as possible. If you will be studying abroad, it is especially important that you are giving your body the type of nutrients that it needs. Here are the top 5 healthiest foods while studying abroad that you won’t want to overlook at your next meal.
Brain Power Broccoli- Your mother was right when she said you should finish your broccoli. Broccoli has been linked to helping with cognitive function meaning it could potentially help you when it comes to pushing through your finals. Studying abroad can put your mind on overload- with the new environment, class style and language; it might be worth giving broccoli another try.
Excellent Eggs- Studying abroad requires a lot of brain power, but also muscle power! Being in a new locations means there will be a lot of exploring by biking, walking, hiking and climbing- participating in these will require you to have more than health insurance for these activities, you will also have to have the energy for them! If you are looking for a protein energy boost, turn to the egg. Just one egg has about 6 grams of protein.
Wonderful Watermelon- Traveling long distances, especially by air, can put a toll on the body. One key ingredient to traveling and feeling normal as quickly as possible after, is to stay hydrated. Watermelon is made up of approximately 90 percent water, making it a tasty way to stay hydrated, the reason why it makes it to the top 5 healthiest foods while studying abroad list. Watermelon is also thought to help relax blood vessels and improve circulation- something that is beneficial when it comes to a long flight to help prevent blood clots.
Super Spinach- Being in a new country means new germs! It’s inevitable that you will come across germs- especially when traveling, but you can help determine how they will have an effect on you by what you eat. Certain compounds in spinach may boost your immune system meaning eating spinach may give you the advantage over germs! Less time sick in bed means more time enjoying being an international student.
Amazing Avocado- There are plenty of costs involved with being an international student so it’s important to get the most bang for your buck. Avocado is the perfect food to do just that. Pairing avocado with certain foods can increase the amount of nutrients being absorbed into your body by up to 400 percent! That means your hard earned money that goes toward groceries or a school meal plan will be put to the best use possible.
Studying abroad can put a mental and physical strain on your body. A good place to start when it comes to taking care of yourself while in your host country is to look into these top 5 healthiest foods while studying abroad. Eat, drink and live healthy while abroad!
A man is divided a water-melon photo courtesy of shutterstock
*Always consult your doctor before making any dietary changes
Health Insurance for International Students in the United Kingdom
March 15th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
In the 2011/2012 academic year there were 435,230 international students studying inside the United Kingdom (UK). This is a 2 percent increase from the 428,225 international students that the UK hosted in the 2010/2011 academic year according to UKCISA. With a growing number of international students comes an increased effort of ensuring that those individuals are safe during their time outside their home country, this means that some students will be eligible for coverage with the National Healthcare System- however, others many not be. International students studying in the UK will need to make sure they understand what insurance options they have available to them when it comes to health insurance. For students who are not eligible for the National Healthcare System, private health insurance will be needed.
Individuals in the United Kingdom utilize the National Healthcare System which they more commonly refer to as the NHS. Depending on the length of time a student stays inside of the UK to study, they may or may not be eligible for coverage. Here is the break down:
Tier 4 General Student Visa (more than 6 months): students have access to the NHS and may need to only supplement with private health insurance for international students in the United Kingdom
Tier 4 General Student Visa (less than 6 months): students will not have access to the NHS and will need to find private health insurance for international students in the United Kingdom
Student Visitor Visa- students will not have access to the NHS and will need to find private health insurance
Those who will need to find private health insurance for international students in the United Kingdom have many options. Three popular choices when it comes to choosing a reliable plan include the Student Secure, the Europe Travel and the Atlas Travel. Each of these plans will provide coverage for doctor visits, hospitalizations, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains as well as many of their own unique benefits and currency payment options. With these three options you are able to find the plan with the benefit needs, currency of choice and budget that will meet your needs.
If you would like assistance finding international health insurance for your time as an international student in the UK, contact one of our agents today.
Group of people learning English as a foreign language in the United Kingdom photo courtesy of Shutterstock
March 2013 Travel Warning
March 8th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
With Spring break just around the corner, many students will be planning trips to fill their time away from class. If you are one of many international students that plans on taking a journey, make sure you are aware of the March 2013 travel warnings listed by the U.S. Department of State and avoid travel to countries during their period of risk when necessary. Below are the travel warnings issued within the month of February.
Travel Warning in Iraq- Issued February 25, 2013:
This travel warning is to replace the warning issued August 9, 2012 and to remind individuals that travel to Iraq remains dangerous. Ongoing threats in Iraq include kidnapping and terrorist violence. Additionally, the ability for the embassy to respond to U.S. citizens facing difficulty within Iraq is very limited. U.S. citizens can reach the U.S. Embassy in Iraq during an emergency by calling 0770-443-1286.
Travel Warning in Algeria- Issued February 19, 2013:
A travel warning for Algeria still remains in effect; this replaces the warning dated January 19, 2013. Individuals in Algeria need to evaluate their situation and any risks involved to their personal safety. Although major cities are policed, there is still a high level of terrorism including kidnapping, bombings, false roadblocks and ambushes in areas east and south of Algiers. Additionally, the Department of State lifted the authorized departure status for U.S. Embassy personnel and their dependents on February 18, 2013. The U.S. Embassy in Algeria is located at 5 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi, in the El Biar district of Algiers.
For more information on the March 2013 Travel Warnings and past warnings around the world visit the U.S. Department of State. Individuals travelling around the world are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
A Yellow Diamond Shaped Road Sign photo courtesy of Shutterstock
International Student Insurance for French Students
March 1st, 2013 by Bryanna DavisIn the 2011/12 academic year there was a new record high for the number of international students studying inside the United States, with a grand total of 764,495 students. This number is a 5.7 percent increase from the previous year according to the “Open Doors” report. Of these international students 8,232 were from France. France ranked in 15th place when it came to the number of international students that other countries send to the US.
If you are one of the many international students inside the US from France, you will more than likely need to find adequate health insurance for your time abroad. There are multiple options available when it comes to finding international student insurance for French students. While it is great to have many options, it can often be overwhelming as well. It is best to find a few great plan options, then compare them side-by-side and find the coverage that will meet your needs.
French students will want to begin their hunt by researching student health insurance plans. One popular option when it comes to international student insurance for French students is the Student Secure plan. This is a great option for students who need coverage for up to four years while studying or while on OPT. Since this plan has many comprehensive benefits like maternity, mental health, repatriation of remains, emergency medical evacuation and organized sports coverage it will also meet many international student school insurance requirements.
Another popular option is the Atlas Travel plan. This plan is beneficial to French students who will be inside the US for one year or less and who are looking for a flexible plan that will fit their budget. The Atlas Travel plan will provide reliable coverage when needed most.
If you would like more information on international student insurance for French students or tips on which of these plans is best for you, contact one of our licensed agents today.
Health Insurance while on OPT
February 22nd, 2013 by Bryanna DavisParticipating in Optical Practical Training (OPT) is an exciting and useful opportunity for international students, giving them the chance to gain real-world work experience in a new culture. As beneficial as partaking in OPT may be, there can be a few hurdles involved as well. One common setback that many students on OPT come across is finding international student health insurance that they are eligible for while on OPT. Many student health insurance plans have an eligibility requirement that the purchaser must be a full time student at a college or university and not in OPT status.
However, there are plans available for those on OPT status. Individuals who need health insurance while on OPT often purchase the Student Secure plan or the Atlas Travel plan.
Those who are on OPT and maintain their F1 visa status can purchase the Student Secure plan and enjoy the comprehensive benefits the plan has to offer like maternity, mental health, doctor’s visits, hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. This plan also works well for an individual on a financial budget since it allows a monthly payment option.
Another popular option for those needing health insurance while on OPT is the Atlas Travel plan. This plan is great for individuals who need coverage for less than one year and are in need of core medical coverage such as hospitalization, doctor’s visits, prescriptions, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. The Atlas Travel plan allows the purchaser to choose their coverage amount and which deductible they would like. This provides coverage flexibility along with cost flexibility. More importantly, this plan does not have a student status eligibility requirement.
Finding adequate health insurance while on OPT doesn’t have to be a challenge. Find out more on the Student Secure or Atlas Travel plan and if you still have questions please contact one of our licensed agents for assistance.
Start Exercising While Being an International Student
February 15th, 2013 by Bryanna DavisAs doctor’s often recommend, exercise is a key ingredient for a healthy life. It can help maintain blood pressure, lower the risk of osteoporosis, increase flexibility, keep obesity at bay and assist in warding off depression, just to name a few benefits. While coping with the stress of an international transition and new classes, it’s beneficial to start exercising while being an international student! Here are just a few ways that you can easily make exercise a pleasant part of your life.
Find a Workout Buddy:
A great way to start exercising while being an international student is to begin with a partner. Without someone else counting on you to meet them at the gym, it makes skipping a training session much easier. Having a workout buddy will help keep you on track. Plus, being able to socialize takes some of the “work” out of a workout.
Sign up for a 5k:
Not only does participation in a 5k or marathon benefit a cause, it’s a great personal motivator. Races are the perfect time to create goals and actually meet them. Nobody wants to be unprepared and suffer the embarrassing consequences of not being able to finish a race. More than likely you will be able to push yourself harder than if you don’t have a certain distance or time goal lined out. This is also a great way to get involved with the community and learn more about your new environment.
Pace Yourself…Beyond the Treadmill:
Working out will require you to pace yourself with your overall routine. If you are not used to working out, don’t max out the bench press on your first day. It can be tempting to try and push yourself to the max in the beginning to speed up results, but it could only result in an injury. The trick to making working out a part of your life routine is to take things slow and find a lasting approach. It’s OK to take a day off to rest. To help avoid injury it’s also suggested that you don’t increase your training routine more than 10 percent each week.
Join a Team:
Even if your sports skills won’t land you a spot on your school’s intercollegiate team, you can still participate in intermural sports. Many schools have intramural sports teams set up for students to enjoy on a less competitive and more social level. This is the perfect opportunity to establish new friendships and start exercising while being an international student. Just make sure you have the necessary protection before you get on the court or field, such as knee pads, mouth guards, and international health insurance that includes sports coverage.
*Individuals should always check with their doctor before beginning any workout routine.
Health Insurance in the USA
February 8th, 2013 by Bryanna Davis
Understanding health insurance in the USA can be confusing for international students and scholars. Especially for those who come from a country where private health insurance is not a popular option.
There is a large amount of research that can be made when trying to find a plan and piece together everything that health insurance in the USA consists of. For example: what is the difference between private and public insurance, what is a deductible, what is emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains. Between the transition of coming to the US, starting new classes, and trying to experience a new culture, many students or scholars don’t have extra time to research which international health insurance plan is their best option. Now, students and scholars who are trying to find a plan to meet either their school insurance requirements or the federal J1 visa requirements have a starter guide to quickly find a plan:
Insurance to Meet School Requirements:
School requirements can vary greatly from one school to the next. This is why our school requirements database is helpful when it comes to finding a plan that will meet the requirements that you need. See which plan level will work for you and have access to your school’s waiver form.
Insurance to Meet J1 Visa Requirements:
The J1 visa insurance requirements are standard across the board. This means those travelling to the US on a J1 visa will need to have an insurance plan that will meet the following:
- Medical Benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness
- Repatriation of Remains in the amount of $7,500
- Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $10,000
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness
- A policy underwritten by an insurance carrier with:
1. an AM Best rating of “A-” or above
2. an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd (ISI) rating of “A-I” or above
3. a Standard and Poor’s Claims Paying Ability rating of “A-” or above
4. or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of “B+” or above
The Atlas Travel plan will meet each of these requirements and provide you with coverage past what is required for your J1 visa. The best part is that you don’t need to have full-time student status to purchase this plan!
If you still have questions about which plan you need to purchase or regarding health insurance in the USA, contact one of our licensed agents today.
*Male teacher explaining a subject to his students photo courtesy of Shutterstock.
