The idea of studying abroad is thrilling. But while you’re dreaming about all the amazing opportunities ahead, don’t forget to handle the practical stuff too. One of the most crucial steps is getting the right insurance.
The student insurance market is huge, with different levels of coverage, so you’ll need to consider factors like how long you’re staying, the rules in your destination country, and any special activities you might need covered—like extreme sports, for example.

The main types of insurance you’ll need are:
- Health insurance
- Travel insurance
- Vehicle insurance
- Contents insurance
Below, we break down what to expect if you’re heading to the UK, the US, Canada, or Australia.
Health Insurance for International Students
When signing up for health insurance, make sure to disclose any pre-existing conditions to avoid invalidating your policy. Also, check if dental care is included—if not, you might need separate dental coverage. Costs will depend on your age and vary between providers. If you already have health insurance back home, see if it can be extended to cover you abroad and what exactly it includes.
In the US, health insurance is mandatory for all non-citizens. You won’t be able to register for classes without proof of coverage. Some universities have their own health plans, but these can be expensive or limited, so many students opt for private insurance that meets their school’s requirements.
In Australia, you’ll need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Coverage varies, but it usually includes doctor visits, some hospital treatments, ambulance services, and certain medications. Still, it’s a good idea to get private insurance for anything not covered.
The UK Council for International Affairs (UKCISA) suggests that even if students qualify for free NHS treatment, they should consider extra insurance for things like:
- Being unable to finish their course due to illness
- Returning home if a family member falls ill
- Bringing a relative to the UK if the student gets sick
- Going back home for treatment or, in the worst case, repatriation
UKCISA also emphasizes dental insurance, noting that some students found it cheaper to fly home for dental work than pay UK prices.

In Canada, some provinces include international students in their health plans, but most require private insurance. Some schools offer their own (sometimes mandatory) plans, while others let students compare options.
For example, the University of British Columbia (UBC) requires provincial medical insurance plus interim coverage during the waiting period. They also have a mandatory extended health plan.
Despite COVID-19, health insurance hasn’t been as heavily impacted for students as you might think. Younger people generally recover well, and testing isn’t a major insurance issue. In the UK, for instance, COVID-related hospitalization is still considered emergency care. The NHS cash benefit for hospital stays still applies, though payout amounts vary. Still, double-checking your coverage is more important than ever.
Travel Insurance for International Students
Travel insurance should cover problems like:
- Lost luggage
- Flight delays
- Medical emergencies
- Personal injury
- Missed connections
- Accidental damage or injury you cause
You’ll hopefully avoid these issues, but it’s smart to be prepared. Some policies also include medical coverage for the first few weeks abroad, bridging the gap until your health insurance kicks in. They might even cover trips within your host country—always read the fine print. Cheaper plans often come with higher excess fees (what you pay when making a claim).
Since the pandemic, travel insurance has been unpredictable. Some providers have cut back on cancellation and disruption coverage. The key takeaway? If you travel against official advice, your policy might not pay out. Again, checking the details is crucial.
Do International Students Need Contents Insurance?
Whether at home or abroad, contents insurance is a good idea. Your parents’ policy might cover you, but if not, get one to protect your belongings overseas.
Costs depend on location and what you’re insuring, but the peace of mind is worth it. If something happens, being able to replace essentials—like your phone or laptop—lets you focus on your studies.
Vehicle Insurance for International Students
If you plan to drive abroad, you’ll need vehicle insurance (unless you’re using public transport, which may be covered by travel or contents insurance).
Coverage typically includes:
- Accidental or malicious damage
- Theft
- Fire, floods, or storms
Policies vary widely. In the UK, you can choose between:
- Comprehensive (full coverage)
- Third party, fire & theft
- Third party only (minimum legal requirement)
Most countries require all drivers to have valid insurance. Penalties for driving uninsured are harsh—fines or even jail time.
Shop around—costs depend on your age, driving history, where you live, your car’s details, and how often you drive. A policy with high excess fees might seem cheap upfront, but you could end up paying more if an accident happens.
Rules differ by country:
- In Canada, international students with no local driving history are treated as new drivers, even if they’re experienced back home.
- Some Australian states require third-party injury coverage.
- In the US, each state has different minimums—consider getting more than the bare minimum. If staying over a year, get a US license for long-term savings. For shorter stays, renting a pre-insured car may be easier.
Final Thoughts
Researching insurance might not be the most exciting part of studying abroad, but it’s worth the effort. Having the right coverage means you’re prepared for the unexpected—so you can focus on making the most of your experience.