SafetyWing vs Cigna vs Allianz: Student Insurance Compared

Quick Verdict

Students have tight budgets but real health needs—especially mental health support away from home. SafetyWing is cheapest but limited. Allianz offers the best balance of coverage and cost. Cigna is premium but comprehensive.

Side-by-Side Comparison

SafetyWing

SafetyWing at $45/month is the most affordable option—appealing for students on tight budgets. But it's travel medical insurance, not health insurance. Emergency coverage only, limited mental health, and may not meet visa requirements for student visas.

Strengths:

• Only $45-55/month
• Monthly subscription—no annual commitment
• Simple signup, instant coverage
• Good for emergencies abroad
• 30 days home country coverage included
• Flexible for semester or gap year

Weaknesses:

• Travel medical, not health insurance
• May not meet student visa requirements
• $250K limit (low for serious illness)
• Mental health: crisis only
• No routine care coverage
• Pre-existing conditions excluded

Best for: Short exchange programs. Gap year travelers. Students whose visa accepts travel insurance. Budget-conscious with no health conditions.

Cigna Global

Cigna Global is the premium choice—unlimited coverage, largest network, best app. More expensive, but worth it if you have ongoing health needs, parents are funding it, or your university recommends comprehensive coverage.

Strengths:

• Unlimited annual coverage
• Best mobile app for managing care
• Meets all student visa requirements
• Comprehensive routine care included
• Good mental health coverage
• Largest provider network

Weaknesses:

• Most expensive ($2,000-3,000/year)
• Annual commitment required
• May be overkill for healthy students
• 24-month mental health waiting period

Best for: Students with ongoing health needs. Those with parent support on costs. Multi-year degree programs. Anyone wanting the best possible coverage.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care hits the sweet spot for students: real health insurance with comprehensive coverage at 30-40% less than Cigna. Best mental health benefits (important for students away from home), visa compliant, and flexible on pre-existing conditions.

Strengths:

• 30-40% cheaper than Cigna
• Best mental health coverage
• Meets student visa requirements
• Routine care included
• 12-month mental health waiting period (shorter than Cigna)
• Moratorium underwriting option

Weaknesses:

• €3M limit (vs unlimited)
• Smaller network than Cigna
• App less polished
• Annual commitment typically required

Best for: Students who need real insurance but have budget constraints. Anyone prioritizing mental health coverage. Multi-year programs where value matters.

Pricing Comparison

Cost matters for students. SafetyWing saves $1,000-2,000/year compared to comprehensive options—but provides less coverage. Allianz offers middle ground.

*Estimated prices for healthy students. Annual costs assume 12 months coverage. Excludes US coverage.

What Students Need to Consider

Visa Requirements

Most student visas require health insurance. Check your specific requirements:

• SafetyWing: May not meet requirements—travel medical ≠ health insurance
• Cigna: Meets all standard student visa requirements
• Allianz: Meets all standard student visa requirements

Mental Health

Being away from home is hard. Mental health support matters:

• SafetyWing: Crisis coverage only—no ongoing therapy
• Cigna: Good coverage after 24-month waiting period
• Allianz: Best coverage, 12-month waiting period

University Insurance Requirements

Many universities require proof of insurance or offer their own plans. Compare:

• University plans may be mandatory or can be waived with proof of equivalent coverage
• Check if Cigna/Allianz qualify to waive university insurance
• SafetyWing often doesn't qualify as equivalent coverage

Coverage During Breaks

Will you travel during holidays?

• SafetyWing: Covers travel anywhere, includes home country visits
• Cigna/Allianz: Worldwide coverage included in comprehensive plans

Which Is Best For You?

Frequently Asked Questions

Will SafetyWing meet my student visa requirements?

Often no. Most student visas require "health insurance," and SafetyWing is technically "travel medical insurance." Some countries may accept it, but many (Germany, France, Spain, UK) require comprehensive health coverage. Check your specific visa requirements.

Can I use my parents' insurance abroad?

US-based plans typically don't cover care abroad except emergencies. Even if they do, network access and direct billing won't work. Get dedicated international coverage for your study period.

What about my university's insurance plan?

Compare it with these options. University plans are sometimes expensive or limited. Many universities let you waive their plan if you show equivalent coverage. Cigna and Allianz typically qualify; SafetyWing usually doesn't.

Should I get coverage before I leave or after arrival?

Get coverage before departure. You need it for visa applications, and you'll be covered during travel. Never leave home without insurance in place.

What happens if I develop a condition while studying?

Conditions that develop while you're insured are covered. This is why having good coverage from the start matters—if you start with SafetyWing and develop a condition, upgrading later becomes complicated.

Is mental health coverage really that important?

Yes. Studies show international students have higher rates of anxiety and depression. Being away from home support systems is challenging. Allianz's strong mental health coverage is a real advantage.