Insurance
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of adequate health coverage abroad. Because the SAF works in seven different countries with very different health care requirements, traditions and fee structures, we take great care in explaining to students and parents the specific costs and benefits of health care in each host country. When requested, the SAF staff is happy to review insurance plans with students and to make supplemental policy recommendations if desired.
United States
The US has the most expensive health care costs in the world and therefore it is essential that SAF students are fully covered for the duration of their study abroad experience.
University Sponsored Insurance Programs
While the US does not offer a national health care program, many SAF host universities require all international students to purchase a specific university-sponsored insurance plan. The cost of these plans are not included in the SAF program fee, but students will be made aware of the additional expense at time they are accepted to the program.
Mandatory host university insurance plans are typically quite comprehensive in regards to major medical coverage while students are in the US but often they do not provide adequate cover while students are in transit or when traveling to third countries. The SAF encourages students to thoroughly review the parameters of the host university’s medical insurance plans and purchase supplemental insurance if necessary.
Private Insurance Policies
If the US host university does not require the purchase of a university-sponsored medical insurance plan, SAF students must purchase a private insurance plan. This is a requirement of the US government, the host university and the SAF. There are many reputable insurance plans available to study abroad students and proof of adequate coverage will be required prior to departure.
Canada
Students studying in Canada longer than six months may be eligible to receive benefits from their provincial medical services plan. In British Columbia it is BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) and application must be made immediately upon arrival. Private insurance coverage prior to MSP eligibility is required and supplemental insurance is also recommended during periods of MSP coverage. Students studying in Canada for less than six months are not eligible for MSP coverage and must purchase private insurance for the duration of their program.
England and Scotland
Students studying in the UK as a full time student for longer than six months are eligible to receive benefits from the National Health Service (NHS). This means students can see a doctor or go to hospital for free, but still must pay for prescription medicines. Upon arrival in the UK, students must register with a doctor and can often do so at their host university’s health centre. Students studying in the UK for less than six months are not eligible for NHS coverage and must purchase private insurance for the duration of their program. The SAF encourages all students to consider supplemental medical and travel insurance in addition to the NHS plan.
Ireland
Ireland does not provide a national health insurance plan for international students outside of the EU who study in the country for less than one year. Therefore, all SAF students must purchase private medical and travel insurance.
Australia
Participation in Australia’s Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is required of all international students attending an Australian university. OSHC covers students upon arrival in Australia only so supplemental travel insurance is recommended. The SAF also encourages students to purchase supplementary medical insurance as the OSHC program excludes pre-existing conditions and mental illness care.
New Zealand
New Zealand does not provide a national health insurance plan for international students but proof of adequate health insurance coverage is a requirement of the New Zealand government. All SAF students will be required to purchase a private medical insurance plan prior to departure and supplemental travel insurance is also recommended.
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