International Students in Ohio
January 29th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisInternational students in Ohio can look forward to a plethora of outdoor activities. With 134 state nature preserves, not even the ice and snow of winter can keep locals indoors; the cold months only provide more activities like ice skating, snowmobiling, winter camping, sledding and ice fishing. Ohio maintains its outdoor appeal since it offers a vast array of scenery with its prairies, wetlands, Lake Erie and the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. International students in Ohio who want to enjoy the land but are not sure how, are able to take advantage of the state’s outdoor programs. Year-round Ohio offers assist in learning the outdoors through fishing workshops, hunting shows and archery tournaments.
International students coming to Ohio also have the opportunity to get a rare glimpse into the Amish community lifestyle. Located in the central-eastern portion of the state is an Amish community of approximately 40,000 Amish individuals. Here you are able to experience the Amish way of life through “home-style” dining, country inns and handmade items. This community offers those from abroad a look into what American life was like before telephones, electricity or vehicles were abound.
Students who would like to study in Ohio but are more interested in city life are able to explore their options in Columbus or Cleveland. The cities of Ohio also provide plenty of entertainment with its numerous museums including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the International Women’s Air and Space Museum and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Just as any other city in the US, there is also an array of restaurants, parks and other sightseeing choices.
International students in Ohio who need to ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage might be eligible for the Student Secure plan. This plan meets and exceeds many school and government requirements. For information on this plan and its benefits you can contact one of our licensed agents today.
Find a Doctor in the US
January 26th, 2012 by ahoontrakulIt’s the New Year’s and you have discovered that you can purchase our more affordable insurance plan instead of your university’s plan. As an international student, you may wonder to yourself, “how do I find a doctor in the US?” or “can I visit any doctor I want to?”
Whether you have purchased our Student Secure plan, Atlas plan or Citizen Secure plan, you can find a doctor in the US very easily. All three plans are what are referred to as a preferred provider organization, or PPO. PPO is an optional network with contracted doctors or hospitals that you can go to. While this network is not required, these doctors and hospitals usually have discounted rates and have agreed to accept direct payment from the insurance company (this means that the insurance company pays covered expenses directly to your doctor or hospital, instead of paying first and being reimbursed).
If you choose the Student Secure Select level, the Atlas Plan or the Citizen Secure. By choosing a provider that is inside the network, you will receive 100% coverage for eligible expenses after you have met any deductible (up to your policy maximum). Coverage may change if you are outside the network so be sure to check the benefits on your plan as this is common in PPO networks.
Whether you go to a doctor or hospital in or out of the network, simply show your insurance ID card to the doctor office. Your doctor can then call the phone number located on your insurance ID card to arrange direct payment.
With any of these plans, you can simply use our online provider search tool to find a doctor or hospital anywhere around the US. We have multiple plans available to fit your needs; if you need help choosing the right plan contact our insurance agents to assist.
Health Insurance Documents
January 22nd, 2012 by Bryanna DavisHaving an international student health insurance plan allows students to feel secure that in the event of an emergency medical situation, they will not be stuck with hefty bills. Although student health insurance plans are great for providing a sense of peace, they are also often required when obtaining a visa and enrolling in classes.
As an international student, moments will arise when you will be faced with the task of retrieving your health insurance documents to prove you have adequate coverage. To ensure that students who have purchased the Student Secure plan are provided with the documents they need at the highest level of convenience, they have access to the Student Zone. Students are able to print their necessary documents from the Student Zone as needed.
Health Insurance Document Breakdown:
The visa letter/confirmation of coverage: This document is often used when students need to show proof of coverage to obtain a visa. The confirmation of coverage includes key information like home country, country of assignment, benefit amounts and length of coverage.
The policy fulfillment: This is your receipt from when you originally purchased your plan. It contains our contact information as well as the breakdown of your important plan information.
The extension endorsement: When you extend your coverage, this document will be your receipt. It includes your certificate ID number, the amount paid and the number of months the plan was extended to.
The ID card: Your ID card is important to have on hand if you seek medical treatment. Although possession of this card does not guarantee all treatment will be covered, it does have information that providers might need to ensure your eligible expenses are covered.
When you are on a strict deadline to provide proof of your health insurance coverage, rest assured that you are able to gather your documents in minutes, not days.
Insurance for Study Abroad in Korea
January 21st, 2012 by ahoontrakulSouth 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.
Nepal International Student Insurance
January 19th, 2012 by Jennifer FrankelMany international students coming to the US from Nepal will need to purchase a Nepalese student health insurance. The United States is the most expensive country for medical care costs according to the World Health Organization, and it is important to purchase insurance to help cover any medical expenses that may come up when you study in the US. Here is a simple guide to follow to make sure you are properly insured when you come to the United States:
1. Insurance School Requirements – If you are coming to the US on a F-1 international student visa, insurance requirements are typically set by your school. Some colleges, universities, and even high schools may have a mandatory insurance plan in place. Others may not require any insurance, or, in other situations, you can purchase your own Nepal international student insurance plan as an alternative. Before purchasing insurance, we recommend that you contact your school or check out our School Requirements Database to see what your school requires.
2. Purchasing Your own Nepal International Student Insurance – There are a few situations where you may be purchasing your own student health plan. In some cases, schools may not have insurance or any requirements for their international students. Since health care can be expensive to cover out of pocket, most people will purchase their own Nepal international student insurance to help cover the high costs in case the unexpected happens. Even with schools who have a student health plan, many schools allow their students to waive with an alternative insurance plan. If this is your case, check with your school to see if there are minimum requirements that your alternative insurance plan must meet. Some students will choose an alternative insurance plan for a few reasons:
I. Coverage may be more comprehensive than what is currently being offered.
II. Rates may be more affordable for an international student.
III. Students want more flexibility with their plan. Many school-sponsored insurance plans will end once the student begins their OPT. With many individual plans you may be able to continue coverage while on OPT or CPT.
3. Waiver and Compliance Forms – If you purchase your own Nepal international student insurance, you may need to notify your school of your alternative student health plan. Depending on your school, this could mean showing them the brochure, completing the school’s waiver/compliance form, or have the insurance company present a letter to show proof of coverage. Either way, check with your insurance company before purchasing to make sure they can assist you with the paperwork you need.
4. Begin Your International Experience – As a Nepalese student studying in the US, this is an opportunity of a lifetime! Enjoy yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and know that in case the unexpected happens that you are properly insured. International Student Insurance works with students around the world and are familiar with the steps involved. If you are unsure of how to get started, contact one of our representatives to help review your insurance requirements and see that you are properly insured.
Student Health Insurance for Broward College
January 9th, 2012 by Bryanna DavisTo see the latest insurance requirements for Broward College, please see our latest 2020-2021 international student blog.
With all of the sand, sun and outdoor activities that Ft. Lauderdale, Florida has to offer it is understandable why international students choose to study at Broward College. If you are one of the many students gaining your overseas experience at Broward College this year it is important to ensure your health insurance meets their requirements. Without coverage that complies with the student health insurance for Broward College standards, you are unable to enroll in classes.
International Student Insurance offers the Student Secure plan which not only complies with the student health insurance for Broward College requirements but has many other benefits as well. To give you an idea of the cost, the Student Secure Smart plan for 12 months of coverage including the U.S. is $371.28 for international students who are ages 24 and younger. The Smart level meets the Broward College requirements by providing medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, hospital room and board, physician visits, surgery, hospitalization, and anesthesia. It also provides benefits that are not required by Broward College like prescriptions, mental health, and emergency reunion.
The Student Secure plan offers 24/7 worldwide travel and medical assistance that includes lost luggage assistance, pre-trip destination information and travel document replacement. You will also have access to the Student Zone which allows you to retrieving plan documents and managing your account online.
To have your compliance form approved and sent to your college is a simple process. After you purchase the Student Secure plan, sign the international student health insurance for Broward College compliance form then fax or email it to us. We will take care of the rest for you.
If you have any questions regarding this plan please feel free to contact us and one of our licensed agents will assist you with any questions you might have.
Updated on August 5, 2020
Traveling with Medication
January 7th, 2012 by ahoontrakulAs 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.
January 2012 Travel Warning Updates
January 4th, 2012 by Jennifer FrankelAs we welcome in 2012, many of you are preparing to study abroad, or are taking advantage of your winter vacation! No matter where you plan to travel internationally, it is important to keep up to date with the international climate to make sure that you and your family are safe. Since our last Travel Warning report in December, here’s what has changed since December 6th:
- Travel Warning for Central African Republic (CAR) – Today, January 4th, the Department of State warned against all travel to the country unless required. Replacing the previous July 28, 2011 warning, risks still exist for travelers against demonstrations as well as “armed militia groups, bandits, and poachers.”
- Travel Warning for South Sudan – As a newly created nation who gained it’s independence last year, South Sudan’s existing travel warning has been replaced on December 22, 2011. Danger is most present along the border between Sudan and South Sudan due in part to the separation. As the military forces build on both sides, the US State Department recommends postponing trips to the region due to clashes in the region that can occur with little to no notice.
- Travel Warning for Syria – Replacing the September 30th travel warning, there has been a reduction in the U.S. Embassy due to “violence and civil unrest.” Much of the commercial transportation has been cut back, including the frequency of flights to and from the country. The United Nations estimated that approximately 5,000 people have been killed since March.
- Travel Warning for Cote d’Ivoire – While security has improved over the last few months, the US Department has continued it’s existing travel warning last month. Cote d’Ivoire continue to have unrest throughout the country that pose threats to visitors.
As always, you can visit the US Department of State to see the latest in travel warnings. We hope you enjoy – and stay safe – as you travel around the world!
Student Health Insurance for University of Hawaii
January 2nd, 2012 by Bryanna DavisInternational students studying at the University of Hawaii can enroll in the ISI insurance plan which will work for your school.
Aloha! Are you looking to study abroad in one of the most tropical locations the United States has to offer? If so, you have more than likely checked out Hawaii and considered joining the 1.3 million people that occupy the islands. Hawaii has a number of Universities for you to consider, the University of Hawaii alone has multiple locations to choose from. If you select the University of Hawaii you will need to also decide if you will be purchasing student health insurance for University of Hawaii from the university health insurance plan or looking elsewhere. To assist you in weighing your options, I have included some information that might be helpful.
The student health insurance for University of Hawaii offers all eligible students a few insurance plans that they can elect to purchase or waive out of. The university medical plan does not come standard with repatriation or accidental death and dismemberment benefits. If you do elect to waive out of this plan you will need to find a plan that meets the university waiver form requirements.
With our Student Secure Select or Elite plan levels, you will go above and beyond the requirements. Also, the Student Secure plan will save you money! Take a look below for a comparison of the student health insurance for University of Hawaii versus the Student Secure plan for ages 24 and younger:
University of Hawaii Student Secure Select Plan
$4,633.18 per year $1,161.16 per year
That saves you over $3,472 per year!! Apply Now
The Student Secure plan includes emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, doctor office visits, maternity, mental health, sports coverage and more. If you would like more information or to purchase this International Student Health Insurance plan feel free to visit us online or contact one of our licensed agents who would be more than happy to assist you.
Updated 8/7/2020
Chinese Students in Iowa
December 26th, 2011 by Bryanna DavisJohn 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.
