Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, where he focuses on helping people compare health plans for life abroad. He emphasizes clear information, neutral analysis, and practical decision support.
Quick Verdict
IMG Global
Best for Most Students
Purpose-built student plans with semester options, visa compliance, and solid coverage. The balanced choice for degree programs.
Learn MoreSafetyWing
Best Budget
Lowest cost at $42/month with monthly flexibility. Perfect for short exchanges or budget-conscious students with basic needs.
Learn MoreCigna Global
Best Comprehensive
Premium coverage with mental health, routine care, and unlimited limits. For students who need comprehensive protection.
Learn MoreSide-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | IMG Global | SafetyWing | Cigna Global |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (22) | $80-120 | $42 | $200-350 |
| Coverage Limit | $500K-2M | $250,000 | Unlimited |
| Visa Compliant | Most countries | Many countries | All countries |
| Mental Health | Limited | Crisis only | Comprehensive |
| Sports Coverage | Basic included | Limited | Good |
| Home Visits | Up to 30 days | 30 days/90 | Up to 180 days |
| Routine Care | Optional | Not covered | Included |
| Contract Length | Semester/Year | Monthly | Annual |
IMG Global
IMG Global offers purpose-built student health insurance with their Patriot Exchange and Global Student plans. Coverage starts at $500K with options up to $2M—sufficient for serious medical events. Semester-length policies avoid paying for summer months when you're home.
Visa compliance certificates are provided for most study destinations (Germany, France, UK, Spain). Basic sports coverage is included, covering intramural and recreational activities. Optional outpatient coverage adds routine care for those wanting comprehensive protection during their studies.
Student Strengths
- • Purpose-built student plans
- • Semester-length options
- • Visa compliance letters
- • Sports activities covered
- • Affordable mid-range pricing
Considerations
- • Limited mental health
- • Some countries not accepted
- • Pre-existing excluded
- • Routine care costs extra
SafetyWing
SafetyWing is the budget champion for international students. At $42/month for those under 27, it's affordable even on a student budget. Monthly billing with no annual commitment means you can cancel when the semester ends or adjust as plans change—perfect for the uncertainty of student life.
Coverage is basic—emergency medical up to $250K, no routine care, limited sports. But for healthy young students, this often suffices. Note: SafetyWing may not meet visa requirements for Germany and some other countries that mandate specific coverage types. Always verify before enrolling.
Student Strengths
- • Lowest cost ($42/mo)
- • No commitment required
- • Simple signup process
- • Monthly flexibility
- • Covers 180+ countries
Limitations
- • Not visa-compliant everywhere
- • $250K limit (lower)
- • No routine care
- • Limited sports coverage
- • Mental health crisis only
Cigna Global
Cigna Global is the premium choice for students who need comprehensive protection. Unlimited coverage, proper mental health benefits (crucial given student stress levels), and routine care included. For students with health conditions, family history, or those wanting peace of mind, Cigna delivers full protection.
All visa requirements are met globally. Home country visits up to 180 days cover long summer breaks. The trade-off is cost—at $200-400/month, this is a significant expense. Best for students whose families prioritize comprehensive coverage or those with specific health needs.
Student Strengths
- • Unlimited coverage
- • Comprehensive mental health
- • Routine care included
- • All visa requirements met
- • 180 days home visits
Considerations
- • Highest cost
- • Annual commitment
- • Overkill for healthy students
- • No semester options
Compare Student Coverage Quotes
Get quotes tailored to your study destination and program length.
Get Free QuotesWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Pricing Comparison
Student budgets vary—here's what to expect:
| Profile | IMG Global | SafetyWing | Cigna Global |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (20) | $70-100/mo | $42/mo | $180-280/mo |
| Graduate student (26) | $90-140/mo | $45/mo | $220-340/mo |
| PhD student (30) | $110-170/mo | $45/mo | $280-420/mo |
| One semester (4 mo) | $320-480 | $168 | Annual only |
*IMG offers semester options; SafetyWing is month-to-month; Cigna is annual only. Prices for healthy students, no US coverage.
Student-Specific Considerations
Program Types
- • Semester exchange: SafetyWing or IMG semester
- • Year abroad: IMG annual or Cigna
- • Full degree (3-4 years): Cigna or host country plan
- • Graduate school: Consider comprehensive coverage
- • PhD program: University insurance often available
University Requirements
- • Many universities mandate health insurance
- • Some require specific minimum coverage
- • University plans may be available (check cost)
- • Waiver possible with proof of coverage
- • Verify requirements before purchasing
Country-Specific Requirements
Germany
- • Strict visa requirements
- • SafetyWing often NOT accepted
- • IMG or Cigna usually work
- • Public insurance option for some
France/Spain
- • Less strict requirements
- • All three typically accepted
- • Budget options usually work
- • Public system supplements
UK/Australia
- • University often mandates plan
- • NHS access (UK) for some
- • OSHC required (Australia)
- • Check specific visa type
Which Is Best For You?
Choose IMG Global if:
- • You need visa-compliant coverage
- • Semester-length options are valuable
- • You want balanced coverage and cost
- • You'll participate in sports
Choose SafetyWing if:
- • Budget is your top priority
- • You're healthy with no pre-existing conditions
- • Your visa doesn't have strict requirements
- • Flexibility matters (short program)
Choose Cigna Global if:
- • Mental health coverage is important
- • You have health conditions to manage
- • Family wants comprehensive protection
- • You'll be abroad long-term (full degree)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my parents' insurance abroad?
Typically no—most US health insurance doesn't cover overseas care except emergencies. Even with emergency coverage, you'd need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. International student insurance is generally more practical and provides direct billing access abroad.
What about sports and activities?
Basic recreational and intramural sports are typically covered by IMG and Cigna. Extreme sports (skydiving, bungee jumping) usually require add-ons or aren't covered. SafetyWing covers basic activities but has more exclusions. Check your specific activities before purchasing.
Will my insurance work during summer breaks?
IMG semester plans can be timed to end when you leave. SafetyWing monthly billing lets you cancel during summer. Cigna annual plans cover you year-round, including summer. Home country coverage varies—30-180 days depending on provider.
Is mental health really that important for students?
International students face significant stress—homesickness, cultural adjustment, academic pressure. Studies show elevated mental health needs. If you have any history of anxiety or depression, or simply want coverage available, consider Cigna's comprehensive mental health or expect to pay out-of-pocket with other options.
Disclaimer: Insurance requirements vary by university and visa type. Country-specific requirements change frequently. Always verify coverage meets your specific visa and university requirements before purchasing. This comparison is for informational purposes only.
