Important Information
about Health Insurance
As you prepare to begin your studies in the United States, it is important to plan for your healthcare needs.
The U.S. healthcare system may be very different from what you are accustomed to in your home country, and medical care can be expensive. Without health insurance, even a routine doctor’s visit, prescription medication, or unexpected emergency room visit can result in significant out-of-pocket costs.
Health Insurance Is an Important Part of Your Arrival Planning
International students and exchange visitors in the United States are encouraged to have comprehensive health insurance coverage before arriving in New York.
J-1 visa holders are required to maintain health insurance that meets the U.S. Department of State Exchange Visitor Program requirements throughout their stay in the United States. If you are a J-1 student or exchange visitor, it is your responsibility to ensure that any plan you select meets these specific requirements.
Regardless of visa status, having appropriate health insurance can help you:
- Access medical care when you need it
- Protect yourself from unexpected healthcare expenses
- Receive treatment for illness or injury
- Access emergency and urgent care services
- Take advantage of virtual healthcare resources, when available
- Focus on your studies with greater peace of mind
You May Qualify for Low-Cost Health Coverage Through NY State of Health
We strongly encourage all international students to arrive at Monroe with comprehensive health insurance coverage.
F-1 and J-1 visa holders may qualify for affordable health insurance through NY State of Health, New York’s official health insurance Marketplace. Depending on your income and other eligibility factors, you may qualify for financial assistance that can reduce the amount you pay for monthly premiums and other healthcare costs.
For example, international students age 19 and older with lower incomes may qualify for New York’s Essential Plan, which provides low-cost health coverage to eligible New York residents. Other students may qualify for a Qualified Health Plan and, depending on their circumstances, financial assistance that can make coverage more affordable.
Eligibility is based on individual circumstances, including factors such as:
- Immigration status
- New York residency
- Income
- Age
- Other eligibility requirements
Because eligibility and coverage options vary by individual, we encourage you to explore your options carefully before selecting a plan.
Visit nystateofhealth.ny.gov to learn more about available health insurance options.
You may also call 1-855-355-5777 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220).
Free assistance is also available through a certified Enrollment Assistor or broker who can help you understand your options and complete the enrollment process.
Plan Details and Enrollment
When exploring coverage, we suggest that you have the following information available:
- Date of birth
- Immigration document number, such as an I-94, visa, or EAD number
- Estimated income for the coverage year
- Information about any current health insurance coverage
More Comprehensive Coverage Options
In addition to exploring coverage through NY State of Health, we are pleased to offer two additional, more comprehensive health insurance options through UnitedHealthcare:
| Plan | One-Year Policy Cost |
| Global Care Basic | $1,156 |
| Global Care Plus | $1,467 |
To learn more about these plans, including the complete plan certificates, benefit summaries, and online enrollment options, please visit Haylor, Freyer & Coon, our insurance broker: 866-535-0456 or student@haylor.com.
On campus, you may also contact Dean Alex Canals (acanals@monroeu.edu) with general questions.