Malaysia Student Health Insurance
June 8th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisThe Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education has set a goal to have over 200,000 international students enrolled in higher education in Malaysia by 2020 and an increase in the number of international students in Malaysia can already be seen according The Malaysian Insider. If you are already an international student in Malaysia or are planning on being included in one of those 200,000 international students in the future, you are in good company.
If you have already done your pre-trip research, you might have found that health care costs in Malaysia can be more costly than what you will find in other South East Asia countries. For this reason, many schools in Malaysia require that their international students purchase health insurance for the entire duration of their studies. If you will be an international student in Malaysia, you will want to find an international health insurance plan that will meet your school requirements.
The Atlas Travel plan is a popular option for Malaysia student health insurance and can be purchased either before you set off on your journey, or after you have already arrived in Malaysia. This plan is flexible allowing you to choose your coverage amount as well as your deductible, so finding a plan that will meet your school requirements but also your budget is easy.
A few of the benefits that are included in the Malaysia Student Health Insurance are hospitalization, doctor visits, prescriptions, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, lost luggage, accidental death and dismemberment, emergency dental, local ambulance, physical therapy, trip interruption and extreme sports coverage.
If you would like more information on Malaysia student health insurance or to purchase a plan, please contact one of our licensed agents today.
International Student Health Insurance Plan Update 2012
June 2nd, 2012 by ahoontrakul
As of June 1st 2012, our International Student Health Insurance plan (Student Secure Plan) has received multiple enhancements to its benefits and the best part is that even though the plan is now better, the price is the same as last year!
Here are some highlights of the new enhancements:
- Substance abuse is now covered as part of the mental health benefit of the plan –
Some colleges and universities in the United States require students to have insurance that will cover alcohol and substance abuse treatment. International students can purchase this plan to meet this requirement.
- Emergency Room is now covered after the deductible whether you are admitted as an inpatient into the hospital or not –
Compare this to some other international student health insurance plans that will not provide coverage if an emergency room visit does not result in being admitted as an inpatient.
On the Select level of the plan there are even more enhancements!
- Local ambulance benefit has been increased to $750
- Emergency Reunion benefit has been increased to $5,000
Lastly, we have heard your request! The Student Secure plan now has daily rates as well as monthly rates. For those who don’t need full month coverage, students can now purchase the plan for the exact number of days needed. Students needing five and a half months of insurance are no longer forced to pay for six full months worth of coverage.
Click here to get a free online quote now.
With these enhancements the plan still provides comprehensive medical coverage for sickness and injury to international students including doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medication, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, etc. With the Budget and Select level of the plan, students will also have coverage for maternity, sports injuries as well as pre-existing conditions.
If you have any question about our international student health insurance plan please feel free to contact us, one of our licensed insurance agents will be happy to help you.
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Benefit
May 25th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisInjuries and illnesses are usually not planned occurrences which is why many individuals purchase insurance. Although it might seem hard to prepare for the worst, often, it is a relief to the individual in the aftermath when they have come prepared to an unplanned situation.
If you are looking for an international health insurance plan to be prepared for the unexpected, to meet a requirement or maybe even both, that also includes an accidental death and dismemberment benefit, the Atlas Travel plan and the Student Secure plan are both popular options.
An accidental death and dismemberment benefit provides a sum in the event that the insured individual has an accidental death or becomes dismembered due to a covered illness or injury.
Individuals who are trying to meet the J-1 visa requirements might be interested in the Atlas Travel plan as it meets the US federal requirements and provides an accidental death and dismemberment benefit. The accidental death and dismemberment benefit for individuals between 18 and 70, includes the following:
- Lifetime Maximum: $25,000
- Death: $25,000
- Loss of 2 limbs: $25,000
- Loss of 1 limb: $12,000
For individuals younger than 18, the accidental death and dismemberment benefit for the Atlas Travel plan is as follows:
- Lifetime Maximum: $5,000
- Death: $5,000
- Loss of 2 Limbs: $5,000
- Loss of 1 Limb: $2,500
If you are an international student in need of health insurance to meet a school requirement, our Student Secure plan also includes an accidental death and dismemberment benefit for the primary participant with the select level, it is as follows:
- Principal Sum Lifetime Maximum: $25,000
- Death: $25,000
- Loss of 2 Limbs: $25,000
- Loss of 1 Limb: $12,500
Whether you are trying to purchase an international health insurance plan to be prepared for the worst or to simply meet a requirement, if you would like more information on the Student Secure plan or the Atlas Travel plan and their accidental death and dismemberment benefit you can visit here or contact one of our licensed agents today.
Finland Student Health Insurance (2012)
May 19th, 2012 by ahoontrakulFor many years, International Student Insurance has been the leading provider of Finland student health insurance for international students from around the world. With comprehensive health coverage, the plan will meets and exceed the insurance requirements so that students can receive their residence permit.
This year, for those students looking for insurance in Finland, we have good news! Our Atlas Travel Medical Plan rates have been reduced for those individuals between the ages of 18-29. Students can now expect to save around $20-$30 a year of coverage!
There are also a number of benefit enchantments as well – the most exciting is that now adventurous and hazardous sports are now automatically included in the plan at no additional cost. If you are traveling to Finland, you may purchase the plan up to 364 days with the option to renew.
The new rates for 364 days of coverage are:
|
$50,000 Policy Max |
$0 Deductible |
$100 Deductible |
|
18-29 yrs old |
$342.16 USD |
$302.12 USD |
|
30-39 yrs old |
$556.92 USD |
$491.40 USD |
|
$200,000 Policy Max |
$0 Deductible |
$100 Deductible |
|
18-29 yrs old |
$455.00 USD |
$400.40 USD |
|
30-39 yrs old |
$724.36 USD |
$637.00 USD |
For students who will be studying in Finland less than two years, you must have private health insurance which covers costs of at least 100,000 Euros. With US$200,000 coverage on our Atlas Plan it will be able to meet this requirement. If you will be studying for two years or more in Finland, you are require to have insurance coverage of at least 30,000 Euros. If you choose a US$50,000, this coverage amount will be able to meet the requirements.
If you apply for your Finland student health insurance now, coverage can begin on the same day and your documents can be email to you right away!
While we recommend the Atlas Plan for most students, you can also choose our Student Secure plan to meet your Finland requirements as well. The Student Secure plan gives you the option of also having coverage for mental health, maternity benefits as well as pre-existing conditions.
Don’t forget, you can contact our insurance agent if you have any questions about our Finland student health insurance.
International Students in Missouri
May 18th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisInternational students in Missouri or individuals planning to be an international student in Missouri will have a wide variety of activities to stay busy between studying. Since Missouri has Kansas City on the west side of the state and St. Louis on the east side, either side of the state you choose study in you will find city entertainment just a short drive away.
Listed below are a few of the city attractions that Missouri has to offer and as an international student in Missouri you will want to be sure to visit.
Kansas City:
The Plaza
West Port
The Steamboat Arabia Museum
Worlds of Fun
The American Jazz Museum
The Hallmark Visitor Center
The Power & Light District
St. Louis:
The Saint Louis Zoo
The Saint Louis Science Center
The Muny at Forest Park
The Arch
Six Flags St. Louis
Grant’s Farm
Meramec Caverns
The Delmar Loop
International students in Missouri who are looking to experience the country side that the state has to offer are in luck as well. There are miles of fields throughout Missouri and plenty of farm-life activities to experience year-round. There are a plethora of farms that are open to the public during certain seasons that give visitors a chance to hand-pick their own produce. Depending on the time of year and what fruit or vegetable is plentiful, there is a chance that visitors can pick buckets of apples, cut the perfect pumpkin, chop down a Christmas tree or pluck a few beans.
If you are one of the many international students in Missouri, there is plenty of opportunity to see both rural life and city life in the United States.
Before you head out to the fields or make your way downtown, ensure you have proper international health insurance that will cover you wherever you go. Contact one of our agents today for more information on a plan that will work best for you.
International Students without Health Insurance
May 11th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisIf you are one of the many international students without health insurance you could be risking more than you think. The United States does not have universal health care meaning the government will not cover your medical expenses that are acquired while you are studying in the US. Since your medical bills are not taken care of by the US government it is highly recommended, and depending on your visa perhaps even required by the US federal government, that you purchase private health insurance.
Since health care in the US can be expensive and bills can accumulate quickly, having health insurance is a means of protection. International students without health insurance could be left with thousands of dollars of debt if a major accident were to occur.
Students with an F-1 visa are not required by the US to have adequate health insurance coverage, however, colleges and universities often have their own insurance requirements in place that international students must meet.
Individuals who will be in the US with a J-1 or J-2 visa must fulfill the following US federal government visa insurance requirements:
• 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.
An insurance policy secured to meet the benefits requirements must be underwritten by an insurance corporation with an A.M. Best rating of “A-” or above, an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd. (ISI) rating of “A-I” or above, a Standard and Poor’s Claims Paying Ability rating of “A-” or above, or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of B+ or above. Alternatively, the sponsor may ascertain that the participant’s policy is backed by the full faith and credit of the government of the exchange visitor’s home country.
If you are one of many international students without health insurance looking for a plan that will meet federal or school requirements, contact one of our agents today to find a plan that will meet your needs.
May 2012 Travel Warnings
May 5th, 2012 by Jennifer FrankelThe academic is coming to an end, and for many of us, that means it’s time to make the most of our long summer break. Whether you plan to study or travel overseas, it is important that you are aware of the international climate prior to your trip. One great way to do this is by keeping up to date with the US Department of State’s website that issues travel warnings to update you on the risks and security concerns around the world. Since our last April 2012 Travel Warning announcement, there have been seven new warnings issued:
- Travel Warning for Iran – Issued 4/27/2012 – If you follow the news, then it is no surprise that Iran continues to make the May 2012 Travel Warnings list. Replacing the travel warning from October 21, 2011, travelers should be aware of security concerns and avoid nonessential travel. The warning especially warns those individuals with dual citizenship (Iranian and American) that they may “encounter difficulty in departing Iran”…where in some cases “Iranian authorities have prevented the departure, in some cases for several months”.
- Travel Warning for Cote d’Ivoire – Issued 4/23/2012 – The US Embassy in Cote d’Ivoire is currently operating and US government officials are now permitted to travel to the region. While there continues to be improving security concerns, there still remains the “potential for some civil unrest”. The warning also notes crimes such as mugging, robbery, burglary and carjacking to be possible concerns for travelers.
- Travel Warning for Burundi – Issued 4/18/2012 – Replacing the travel warning from November 25th, the new warning states that there are security concerns due to terrorist organizations. The US Department of State has an outstanding travel restriction on Embassy personnel. Those who travel to the region should avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds due to potential civil unrest.
- Travel Warning for Eritrea – Issued 4/18/2012 – The travel warning in Eritrea has been updated, stating that the Eritrean government continues to restrict travel of all foreign nationals. While the US Embassy is operational, consular assistance is limited. This travel warning recommends that individuals defer all travel to the region.
- Travel Warning for Mali – Issued 4/9/2012 – The Mali Travel Warning has been updated since our last April 2012 Travel Warning Update. The warning advises against all travel to the country due to political instability and the threat of attacks/kidnapping.
- Travel Warning for Niger – Issued 4/6/2012 – Niger is included on the list of travel warnings due to the risk of kidnapping by terrorist groups. The US Embassy is restricting travel of US government personnel.
- Travel Warning for Kenya – Issued 4/4/2012 – Due to the threat of terrorism and violent crimes, the US government has updated the already-existing warning. Kidnapping and crimes against foreigners continue to exist, and travelers should avoid bus stops or stations, unmarked taxis, and to be aware of your surroundings.
As always, be sure to check out the US Department of State for the latest information – and find out even more information on these May 2012 Travel Warnings – on their website.
Study Abroad Insurance for Italy
May 4th, 2012 by Bryanna Davis
Italy is ranked as one of the top destinations for US students to study abroad. With its rich history, fine dining and exquisite shopping opportunity, it has the potential to provide students with a memorable experience that compliments their studies.
If you are one of the many students planning to study abroad in Italy in one of the upcoming semesters, you have probably already investigated the visa requirements that will need to be satisfied for your journey. Since Italy is included in the list of Schengen countries, you will need to obtain a Schengen visa, meaning you will need to purchase an insurance plan that meets the Schengen visa requirements.
The Atlas Travel plan meets the Schengen visa insurance requirements and provides you with flexibility, by allowing you to select your deductible and amount of coverage. This plan is also able to be purchased for a minimum of 5 days, up to 364 days with the option to extend coverage.
The Student Secure plan is another option for full-time students at a college or university in need of study abroad insurance for Italy that will meet the Schengen visa insurance requirements. The Student Secure plan allows you to choose from three levels of coverage, Smart ($200,000), Budget ($250,000) and Select ($300,000), each level will provide you with comprehensive coverage during your trip abroad.
Both plans will give you adequate study abroad insurance for Italy that meet the Schengen Visa requirements and will cover you anywhere outside of your home country if you decide to travel while studying abroad. Also, after you purchase your plan, you will have access to your visa letter that outlines your benefits and coverage amount.
For more information about these plans, along with other insurance options, please see our Italy Student Insurance section of our website which contains not only information on the Italy visa insurance requirements, and the healthcare system in Italy – but also information on why you would want to study in Italy.
Updates to the Atlas Travel Medical Plan
May 2nd, 2012 by ahoontrakulAs of May 1st 2012, any new Atlas Travel Medical plan purchased now offers even more coverage than before. Whether you are studying, working or traveling abroad, this plan has been enhanced to offer even more benefits for anyone needing short term medical coverage. Here are the highlighted benefits added to the Atlas Travel Medical Plan this year:
- Adventurous and hazardous sport coverage is now automatically included (at no additional cost to you!)
The Atlas Travel plan now automatically covers adventurous and hazardous sports as a standard benefit on the plan. At no additional
cost, this plan will now cover you if you decide to go snorkeling, skiing, white water rafting, etc.
Many travel insurance plans will charge you to include sports coverage – and many plans require that you include this when you purchase the policy (and cannot be added later). We understand that many travelers are unaware of their activities prior to their trip – and shouldn’t your plan keep up with you? No need to worry, the Atlas Travel is now designed with even more complete coverage so that you can participate in these activities and know that you’ll be covered.
- 364 days of coverage
The Atlas Travel plan continues to provide you with the flexibility to purchase only the days of coverage you need from 5 days up to 364 days. Don’t waste money on plans that require you to purchase more than you need. If your plans change, you also have the ability to extend coverage right online.
- Increased coverage for an acute onset of a pre-existing condition
If you have a well maintained pre-existing condition, but are looking for coverage in case a sudden and unexpected outbreak or recurrence to your condition occurs, look no farther than the Atlas Travel plan. Now, the Atlas Travel plan will provide $20,000 in coverage for an acute onset of a pre-existing condition.
- Dental Pain coverage increased to $250
While the Atlas Travel plan is designed to be a medical health plan, we understand that your dental care is important and dental emergencies do happen. Newly purchased plans now have an acute onset of a dental pain up to $250.
As always, the Atlas Travel Medical Plan will still provide excellent coverage for anyone outside of their home country in case of a sickness or injury including:
- Medical Expenses/Doctor visits
- Hospitalization
- Prescription Medications
- Emergency Evacuation
- Repatriation
- And more…
If you have any questions about this plan or if would like more information about other plans, please feel free to contact us.
Where to Study Abroad
April 27th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisIf you are one of over 250,000 US students considering studying abroad next year, determining where to study abroad will be your first big decision of many.
When choosing where you will study, it is important to know that many universities and colleges have certain destinations where students can study abroad. Before you start planning your trip, check their list of countries and schools you are able to spend your semester or year abroad in, and then go from there.
After you find a university or college that you would like to study at, you will then want to make sure they have your field of study and that your program credits will transfer back to your US school as needed. Studying abroad can be a great experience but it can also mean an extra semester or year of school if credits received overseas are not accepted by your US school when you come back. Confirm your US school’s policy on this and obtain the syllabus for the classes you still need to take. This way, when you choose your classes abroad you can come as close as possible to finding a comparable class, meaning you will have a better chance of having that credit transfer back to your US school.
If you are still unsure about where to study abroad after this process, you might want to consider a few of the locations where a good portion of other students are selecting to study abroad according to the 2011 open doors report.
The United Kingdom: With a plethora for things to do in such a small territory, there is always weekend entertainment for international students. After a short flight, boat ride or Chunnel trip, the UK also provides students with easy access to explore Europe.
Italy: With lasagna, spaghetti and pizza abound, students with a love for food might find studying in Italy compliments their studies well.
France: Those studying art or architecture will have access to first hand examples of a few of the world’s most famous pieces including the Mona Lisa, Sunflowers, Venus de Milo, the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
China: China is a good option if you are looking to be emerged in a culture different from western countries, but that still has western amenities available. This country has plenty of modern cities and traditional villages for students who are looking to explore.
Your decision on where to study abroad will impact your entire experience overseas. Before you decide, think about what you want out of your time abroad and where you will be able to accomplish that list.
