Introduction
Studying abroad is an exciting journey filled with new experiences, opportunities, and growth. However, unexpected medical emergencies, lost baggage, or travel delays can happen anytime. That’s why having the right travel insurance for international students is essential.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 best travel insurance companies for international students in 2025, their key benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
1. IMG Student Health Advantage
Best for: Comprehensive student medical coverage
Why Choose IMG:
IMG’s Student Health Advantage plan offers global medical coverage designed for international students and exchange participants. It covers hospitalization, prescriptions, mental health, and emergency evacuation.
Key Features:
- Coverage up to $500,000
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Maternity and mental health coverage
- Meets most university insurance requirements
Countries Covered: Worldwide
2. Allianz Global Assistance
Best for: Reliable global support and claims
Why Choose Allianz:
Allianz is one of the world’s most trusted travel insurance providers. Their Student Travel Insurance offers strong protection against trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and lost belongings.
Key Features:
- Emergency medical coverage up to $1 million
- Trip interruption and delay coverage
- Easy online claim process
- Optional add-ons for sports and study equipment
Countries Covered: 200+ countries
3. World Nomads
Best for: Adventure-loving international students
Why Choose World Nomads:
World Nomads offers flexible travel insurance for students who love exploring beyond the classroom. It’s ideal for students participating in sports, volunteering, or adventure travel abroad.
Key Features:
- Covers over 200 adventure activities
- Emergency medical and evacuation up to $100,000
- 24-hour global assistance
- Easy online purchase and renewal
Countries Covered: Worldwide
4. ISO Student Health Insurance
Best for: Students studying in the USA
Why Choose ISO:
ISO specializes in health and travel insurance for international students in the United States. Their ISO Secure and ISO Shield plans meet most U.S. university requirements and are affordable.
Key Features:
- Affordable plans starting from $29/month
- Comprehensive coverage for doctor visits and hospitalization
- PPO network with direct billing
- Dental and vision add-ons available
Countries Covered: USA (for international students)
5. AXA Schengen Student Travel Insurance
Best for: Students traveling to Europe or Schengen countries
Why Choose AXA:
AXA offers Schengen-compliant insurance perfect for students applying for European student visas. It covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Key Features:
- Valid for Schengen visa applications
- Covers up to €100,000 in medical costs
- Quick online purchase and instant policy delivery
- Accepted by embassies and universities across Europe
Countries Covered: All 27 Schengen countries
How to Choose the Best Travel Insurance as a Student
When choosing travel insurance, consider:
- Medical Coverage Limit: Ensure it meets visa and university requirements.
- Emergency Evacuation: Must include transportation to home country or nearest hospital.
- Trip & Baggage Protection: Helps if your trip is delayed or your luggage is lost.
- 24/7 Assistance: Essential for emergencies abroad.
- Policy Flexibility: Choose one you can extend easily if your study program is extended.
FAQs About Travel Insurance for International Students
1. Do international students need travel insurance?
Yes. Most universities and visa authorities require students to have valid travel or health insurance before arrival.
2. Can I buy student insurance after arriving abroad?
Yes, but it’s recommended to buy it before departure to ensure full coverage from day one.
3. Is travel insurance the same as health insurance?
Not exactly. Travel insurance covers trip-related risks and emergencies, while student health insurance focuses on long-term medical care abroad.
4. Which is the cheapest student travel insurance?
ISO and AXA often provide the most affordable student travel plans, depending on your destination.
5. Can I renew my student travel insurance online?
Yes, most companies like World Nomads and IMG allow easy online renewal before your policy expires.
Conclusion
Choosing the right travel insurance for international students ensures peace of mind while studying abroad. Whether you’re heading to the USA, UK, Canada, or Europe, these top 5 insurance providers—IMG, Allianz, World Nomads, ISO, and AXA—offer reliable protection and flexible plans to suit every student’s budget and destination.
Start your journey confidently, knowing you’re covered wherever your studies take you.
