Student Health & Insurance — Country Snapshot

A compact, country-by-country summary for students planning study abroad. Read the short notes, then expand for suggested next steps.

Updated guidance • Est.
Tip
Always check your university's mandatory requirements and whether coverage is required for visa approval. Estimated costs are for planning only.

AU Australia

Commonly required
Visa type: Student (Subclass 500)
Overview
Australian student visas normally require proof of health cover. Typical policies include GP visits, hospital stays and prescriptions. Many universities include options during enrolment.
AUD 450–700
per year (estimate)
Tip: Bundled plans may be cheaper.

US United States

Campus plans common
Visa: F-1 / J-1 considerations
Overview
The U.S. does not require a national student policy, but most colleges expect students to hold health insurance. Plans vary widely — compare outpatient coverage, emergency care and mental health benefits.
USD 900–2,400
per year (estimate)
Tip: University-sponsored plans can simplify claims.

DE Germany

Mandatory for enrollment
Public vs private by age
Overview
Germany commonly requires proof of health insurance for university registration. Students under a certain age may join public funds; older students might need private policies.
€110–€120
per month (public estimate)
Tip: Check whether the insurer accepts international students.

UK United Kingdom

NHS surcharge applies
Tier 4 / Student route
Overview
Many international students pay the Immigration Health Surcharge with their visa application which gives access to NHS services. Some students still choose private top-up cover for faster access.
£460–£780
per year (varies by visa length)
Tip: Short-term private plans cover travel gaps.

CA Canada

Province rules differ
Public & private mix
Overview
Some provinces include international students in provincial health programs; others require private coverage. Confirm your provincial rules and whether the university provides options.
CAD 550–1,000
per year (estimate)
Tip: Look for plans that include dental/vision if you need them.

IE Ireland

Private cover required (non-EU)
Check accepted insurers
Overview
Non-EU/EEA students generally must hold approved private medical insurance. Universities often list accepted insurers — compare policy limits and hospital benefits.
€160–€320
per year (estimate)
Tip: Verify outpatient and emergency coverage limits.

NZ New Zealand

Often required pre-arrival
University bundles available
Overview
Many institutions ask students to arrange insurance before arriving. Policies typically include medical evacuation options for remote locations.
NZD 600–1,050
per year (estimate)
Tip: If your course includes fieldwork, check activity cover.

FR France

Public option available
Top-up private plans common
Overview
Students may register for the public health system; many buy complementary private plans to improve access and cover additional services like dental or vision.
CPAM free + €120–€320
for private top-up (estimate)
Tip: Confirm registration steps for non-EU nationals.

NL Netherlands

Required for workers/interns
Basic Dutch policy (Zorg)
Overview
If you work, intern, or meet residency thresholds you will need the Dutch basic health insurance. Students not working may have alternatives — check your university guidance.
€100–€140
per month (estimate)
Tip: Employer/education subsidies may apply; always compare.
Planning checklist: Confirm university requirements → Compare policy inclusions (hospital, evacuation, mental health) → Save copies of your policy and insurer contact details.