Medical insurance for Indian students studying abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting step, full of promise — but it also means stepping into unfamiliar systems, especially when it comes to healthcare. For Indian students, having the right medical insurance isn’t just helpful, it’s often required.
Why medical insurance is essential for Indian students abroad
One unexpected illness or accident can lead to thousands of euros or dollars in medical bills.
That’s why it’s so important to understand how international student insurance works and what kind of coverage you really need before you leave India.
Healthcare abroad is expensive
In countries like the Netherlands, healthcare is high-quality but very expensive for international students. Even a short visit to the emergency room can cost over €300, and a single night in hospital may cost several thousand euros — without insurance, these expenses come entirely out of pocket.
The same is true in popular study destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia, where healthcare costs are among the highest in the world.
Insurance is often legally required
In many cases, having valid medical insurance is a legal requirement to study abroad. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Australia and New Zealand won’t issue student visas unless you show proof of appropriate health coverage.
Even in places with public healthcare access, like the UK or France, international students are often still expected to carry private insurance for things that aren’t covered, like dental care or mental health support.
It protects your study plans and peace of mind
Medical insurance also protects more than your health — it protects your plans. If you need emergency treatment, require hospitalisation, or must return home unexpectedly due to illness, a good policy ensures you’re not stuck in a stressful financial situation.
And beyond that, it simply helps you feel confident and secure in a new environment. When you’re covered, you can focus fully on your studies, knowing you won’t be caught off guard by sudden medical costs.
That peace of mind is something every student — and their family — deserves.
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Choosing the best insurance plan as an Indian student
Not sure where to start? Use the Insure to Study premium calculator to quickly see which plan fits your needs, budget and study destination.
When comparing plans, consider what kind of support you might need. Is there 24/7 help available? What’s excluded? Does it include mental health support? And if your course gets extended, can your policy be extended too?
Insure to Study provides plans designed for international students — often more flexible and affordable than what universities offer themselves.
What is not covered: exclusions you should know
Even good insurance has limits. It won’t usually cover elective surgeries, injuries caused by alcohol or drugs, or dangerous activities unless you’ve arranged extra coverage. Also, undeclared pre-existing conditions may not be covered.
Always read your policy details to avoid surprises later.
Insure to Study plans for Indian students
You don’t have to guess what’s right for you. Use our premium calculator to compare plan features and prices in seconds.
Insure to Study offers four options. Here’s what they look like:
Travelling to and from the EU
Master Plan+
€ 1,87 per day more info
- Complete medical expenses
- All dental care
- Accidents
- Luggage
- Household goods and valuables
- Emergencies
- Private liability
- Legal aid
- Travel
Master Plan
€ 1,21 per day
- Extensive medical expenses
- Dental care (urgent and accidents only)
- Accidents
- Luggage
- Household goods and valuables
- Emergencies
- Private liability
- Legal aid
- Travel
Travelling within the EU
Basic Plan
€ 0,53 per day (no medical coverage)
- Accidents
- Luggage
- Household goods and valuables
- Emergencies
- Private liability
- Legal aid
European Plan
€ 0,83 per day
- Additional medical cover
- Accidents
- Luggage
- Household goods and valuables
- Emergencies
- Private liability
- Legal aid
They all meet visa requirements, and they’re easy to adjust or cancel online.
Get a personalised quote — it only takes a few minutes.
How to apply for student medical insurance from India
Once you’ve received your admission letter, it’s time to think about insurance. You’ll need it before your visa application, so don’t wait too long.
Compare different plans, check that they meet the rules for your destination, and prepare your documents — passport, admission letter, travel dates.
You can apply online with Insure to Study directly from India, no local ID or bank account needed. After applying, you’ll get your digital policy documents, ready to submit with your visa paperwork.
How healthcare works abroad for international students
When you’re preparing to study abroad, it’s important to know not just that you need insurance — but how healthcare systems work once you’re there. Understanding the basics can help you avoid stress and confusion in situations where you need medical care.
Europe: GP first, then specialist
In much of Europe — for example, the Netherlands or Germany — the healthcare system is structured around local general practitioners (GPs). As a student, you usually register with a GP upon arrival.
They are your first point of contact for most health concerns. If you need to see a specialist, you often need a referral, unless it’s an emergency.
North America: University clinics and high ER costs
In North America, things are a bit different. Many universities operate their own health centers, which are great for minor issues like colds, flu, or routine check-ups.
However, if you need more advanced care or visit an emergency room (ER), you’ll likely face high costs and be expected to pay upfront if your insurance isn’t accepted directly.
United Kingdom: NHS access, with limits
In the UK, students staying longer than six months typically get access to the National Health Service (NHS) through the immigration health surcharge. This covers GP visits and emergency hospital care.
However, for faster access to specialists, or for things like dental or vision, having additional private insurance can make a big difference.
General tips for all students
- No matter where you go, always make sure you know how to:
- Register with a local healthcare provider
- Access emergency services
- Understand what your insurance does and doesn’t cover
- Reach your insurer quickly if you need support
Cost and value: what are you really paying for?
Here’s a quick look at the daily and monthly costs — with approximate Indian rupee equivalents to help you plan more easily:
Basic Plan:
€0.53/day (₹47) — approx. €16/month (₹1,400), best for students with existing public healthcare or minimal needs
European Plan:
€0.83/day (₹74) — approx. €25/month (₹2,200), ideal for EU students with EHIC needing extra protection
Master Plan:
€1.21/day (₹108) — approx. €37/month (₹3,300), great for full medical and travel coverage outside the EU
Master Plan+:
€1.87/day (₹167) — approx. €56/month (₹5,000), offers maximum protection including mental health and dental
Campus plans can cost €70–100 per month (₹6,200–8,900) and still miss key benefits. Insure to Study gives you more for less.
What should your medical insurance cover?
A reliable student insurance plan should cover the essentials: hospital stays, emergency treatment, regular doctor visits and prescriptions. It should also help with mental health support and pre-existing conditions where needed, plus cover for medical evacuation or if you need to return home due to illness.
Some plans even include extras like travel protection, liability cover and legal assistance — all useful when you’re far from home.
Country-specific insurance requirements
Every country has its own system and rules. Here’s a quick overview:
Netherlands:
Private insurance required; Insure to Study is accepted by immigration services and universities.
Germany:
Public health insurance is available to most students under 30. Otherwise, private insurance is necessary.
France:
You must register with public health insurance, but it doesn't cover everything. A top-up private plan is smart.
UK:
NHS is included if you stay longer than 6 months, but private insurance speeds things up and fills the gaps.
USA:
Most universities offer expensive plans. You can opt for a private plan if it meets visa and school standards.
Canada:
Depends on the province. Some include students, others don’t — private coverage is often safer.
Australia:
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory and must be from a certified provider.
New Zealand:
Insurance is legally required and must meet specific criteria. You can choose your own provider.
Differences with university-offered plans
University plans often sound convenient — until you compare them. Insure to Study offers customisable plans with travel and mental health coverage, online management, and real flexibility. Campus plans are usually rigid, expensive, and slower to adjust.
Common mistakes to avoid
Many students assume travel insurance is enough or wait too long to arrange proper coverage. Some forget to declare a pre-existing condition, or rely too heavily on public healthcare, which doesn’t always cover what you’d expect.
Avoid these traps by choosing the right plan early and reading your policy carefully.
After arrival: insurance tips
Once you’ve landed, keep your documents safe — both printed and digital. Find out where the nearest clinics and hospitals are. Add emergency contacts to your phone. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t guess — contact your insurer directly.
How to file a claim abroad
If something happens, don’t worry. Start by gathering your documents — invoices, prescriptions, or a hospital report. Fill in the claim form, and upload everything.
Your claim is usually reviewed within 5 to 10 working days. If it’s urgent, 24/7 help is always available.
Frequently asked questions: medical insurance for Indian students studying abroad
When should I buy insurance?
Ideally, you should arrange your insurance right after receiving your university admission letter. Most embassies require proof of insurance during the visa process, so it’s something you need to have in place before your visa appointment — not afterwards.
Can I apply without a local ID or bank account?
Yes, absolutely. With Insure to Study, you can apply entirely online from India without needing a local ID number, a foreign bank account or even a BSN (citizen service number). The application is fast, secure, and you’ll receive your policy documents digitally.
Can I switch or update my plan later?
Yes. Life happens — and Insure to Study plans are made to be flexible. If your study duration changes, you move to a different country, or your university situation shifts, you can extend, shorten, or modify your insurance with help from the support team.
Is insurance mandatory?
Yes, in most study destinations it’s a legal requirement for visa approval. Even in countries with public healthcare systems, like the UK or France, you’ll often need additional private coverage for full protection.
Can I use Indian insurance abroad?
Usually not. Most Indian insurance policies are either not accepted for visa purposes or don’t meet the minimum coverage standards set by immigration offices. They may also lack access to international hospital networks.
What if I get sick without insurance?
You’ll have to pay the full cost of treatment yourself, which can be extremely expensive — even for a short ER visit or a basic procedure. Without insurance, you could be facing bills in the range of ₹2–5 lakhs or more.
Can I buy insurance after arrival?
In some countries, yes, but it’s not recommended. You may not be allowed to travel without proof of insurance, and being uninsured — even briefly — exposes you to serious risk. It’s best to sort everything before departure. Not sure which plan is right for you? Calculate your premium now and get a tailored recommendation instantly.
What’s the difference between the four Insure to Study plans?
Each plan is tailored to different needs. The Master Plan+ includes full medical, mental health, dental, travel and liability coverage — perfect for long stays and maximum peace of mind. The Master Plan offers strong medical and travel cover, while the European Plan is ideal for students staying in the EU with an EHIC. The Basic Plan is best for those who already have some coverage and want extra travel protection.
Is mental health care included in the coverage?
Yes — but only in the Master Plan+. This plan includes support for mental health consultations, which many other student plans overlook. It’s a great option if you want broad protection for both physical and emotional wellbeing.
What if I’m doing an internship or part-time work abroad?
Insure to Study plans cover academic internships and volunteer work, as well as part-time student jobs in most cases. It’s important to choose a plan that includes liability insurance, like the Master Plan or higher.
How do I show proof of insurance for my visa?
After purchasing a plan, you’ll receive an official certificate by email. This document is accepted by embassies, consulates, and universities, and can be uploaded directly during your visa application process.
What if I need help choosing the right plan?
You can always reach out to the Insure to Study team via their website. They’re experienced in helping Indian students and can recommend the best option based on your destination, study type, and duration.
Calculate your student premium now
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