There are many options for health insurance in the U.S. It is important that you protect yourself and maintain good health by choosing an appropriate health insurance plan, and submit proof of your coverage to OIS quickly.
Scholar health insurance requirements
Failure to maintain adequate medical insurance may result in termination of your J-1 status.
Your requirements
All J-1 Exchange Visitors and their J-2 dependents are required to have health insurance for their entire stay in the United States. Your health insurance policy must meet minimum coverage levels set forth by the U.S. Department of State and IU:
- $100,000 for each sickness or illness (including maternity/pregnancy care)
- $100,000 for each accident or injury
- $50,000 for medical evacuation
- $25,000 for repatriation
- $500 deductible or less per illness or accident
Your policy’s coverage must become effective on the same day you enter the U.S., and you must have health insurance coverage for the duration of your J program or until you leave the U.S.
You are required to provide proof of your health insurance coverage to OIS after your initial arrival in the U.S. If your health insurance policy expires while your J program is still active, you are required to provide updated health insurance documents to OIS within 7 days of your policy’s expiration date.
Recommended amount of coverage
This is the minimum amount of health insurance coverage you should have.
For your protection and to avoid paying higher medical costs when you see a U.S. doctor, we recommend you purchase the IU insurance plan or an insurance plan with a higher level of coverage.