Studying or doing an internship abroad is an exciting adventure. But behind all the excitement of studying, traveling and meeting new people, one crucial point is often overlooked: student health insurance abroad.
Without the right coverage, a simple medical emergency in the U.S. or Canada could cost you tens of thousands of euros. Being well covered is not an option, it’s a necessity for your financial security and your health.
Find out why it’s essential to take out international student health insurance, what options are available and how to choose the most suitable complementary health insurance for your stay.
Why take out student health insurance abroad?
International insurance is the safety net that protects both your health and your savings.
Protect your finances from exorbitant healthcare costs
In some countries, a simple hospital stay can cost tens of thousands of euros. Even a minor injury (sprain, X-ray, physiotherapy) can quickly exceed €2,000. Without insurance or complementary health insurance for students, your savings are likely to go down the drain. Good health insurance offers high reimbursement ceilings and, often, coverage from the first euro, with no deductible.
Meeting legal and university obligations
In many countries (Australia, USA, Canada, etc.), health insurance is mandatory to obtain a student visa or finalize your university registration. A certificate of insurance is often required to guarantee that you will not be a burden on the host country in the event of a medical problem.
Full 24/7 support
International health insurance goes far beyond simple medical reimbursements. It includes vital guarantees:
- 24-hour medical repatriation (plane or helicopter in case of serious emergency).
- International civil liability (essential if you cause damage to others).
- Luggage and study interruption insurance (useful in the event of theft or early return).
Different solutions for different destinations
The choice depends above all on the duration and geographical location of your stay.
| Option | When to use it | Benefits | Limits |
| European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) | For studies in Europe (EU/EEA/Switzerland) | Coverage of emergency treatment in accordance with local legislation | No repatriation, reimbursements limited to host country rates |
| CFE – Jeun’Expat Santé | For French students outside Europe | Maintains a link with French social security, suitable coverage | Reimbursements based on French scales, which are sometimes inadequate |
| International student health insurance | For studies/internships anywhere in the world | Tailor-made packages from €33/month, comprehensive cover, certification in line with university requirements | Cost varies according to destination and coverage chosen |
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What international student health insurance covers
Student packages are designed to meet the specific needs of students staying from 4 to 12 months (or even longer). They generally include :
- Medical expenses and hospitalization (emergency, unforeseen, sudden illness)
- 24-hour worldwiderepatriation assistance
- International civil liability (often required by universities)
- Baggage insurance for round-trip or domestic travel
- Study interruption costs in the event of repatriation or serious illness
- Worldwide direct billing: no need to pay in advance for hospitalization >24 hours
Please note: these insurances cover emergencies and unforeseen needs. For longer stays (> 12 months), it may be preferable to opt for a more comprehensive expatriate or complementary international health insurance policy.
How do I choose the best health insurance or mutual insurance for students abroad?
To make sure you don’t forget anything, start by checking the requirements of your destination country, as well as those of your university, particularly in terms of compulsory attestation and minimum cover. Then take the time to compare offers online using a student comparison tool: in just a few minutes, you’ll be able to see the rates and cover offered by the leading insurers. Carefully analyze what’s included in each package – hospitalization, repatriation, third-party liability, luggage insurance and 24/7 assistance – to make sure your needs are well covered. You should also take an interest in the reimbursement method, whether it’s coverage from the first euro or a top-up to Social Security or CFE. And don’t wait too long: some plans must be taken out before departure, and may require a health questionnaire, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Tip: make sure your contract is 100% compliant with university and immigration requirements to avoid any refusals.
How much does student health insurance abroad cost?
- From €1/day (approx. €30/month) for basic coverage (repatriation, emergency medical expenses).
- From €33 to €60/month for complete packages adapted to universities and visas.
- More than €80/month in countries with very high healthcare costs (USA, Australia, Japan).
| Cover type | Price range (per month) | Details |
| Basic coverage | From €30/month | Repatriation, emergency medical expenses (often with limited ceiling). |
| Complete formulas | Between €40 and €70/month | Suitable for visas/universities. High ceilings, civil liability included. |
| High-cost countries | More than €80/month | Ex: United States, Canada, Japan, Australia. Very high coverage, sometimes required by visa. |
Please note: a top-of-the-range bank card or a French health insurance plan are generally not sufficient for a stay of more than 90 days: they do not provide adequate cover for repatriation or expensive treatment abroad.
Choosing the right student health insurance
Taking out a student health insurance policy abroad is more than just a formality: it’s the key to traveling and studying with peace of mind. With comprehensive packages starting from €40/month, including health expenses, assistance, repatriation and civil liability, you can secure your stay without breaking the bank.
Compare the best student insurances online , free of charge and with no obligation , and get your certificate of coverage right away!
