Quick answer
Usually yes. J-1 exchange visitors are required by federal rules to carry health insurance that meets set minimums. F-1 students don’t have a federal insurance requirement, but most U.S. colleges require international students to have coverage, and many automatically enroll them in the school’s plan. Some states, like Massachusetts, also require college students to be insured.
Key takeaways
- J-1 students and their J-2 dependents need at least $100,000 in medical coverage per accident or illness.
- Most schools require F-1 students to have coverage and set their own standards.
- Schools either require their own plan, let you waive it with comparable coverage, or leave it up to you.
- Starting in 2027, most student visa holders can’t get marketplace premium tax credits.
- Coverage that meets your school’s rules isn’t always enough; check what it pays for.
On this page
Requirements by visa type
| Visa | Insurance requirement |
|---|---|
| J-1 (and J-2 dependents) | Required by federal rules: $100,000 per accident or illness, $25,000 repatriation, $50,000 medical evacuation, deductible no more than $500 |
| F-1 | No federal requirement, but most schools require coverage |
| M-1 | No federal requirement; check your school |
How schools handle insurance
- Mandatory school plan. You’re enrolled automatically and can’t waive it.
- School plan with a waiver option. You can use another plan if it meets the school’s standards and you file a waiver by the deadline.
- No requirement. You choose your own coverage, but you should still get insured.
Some states add their own rules; for example, Massachusetts requires most college students to have coverage. See health insurance regulations by state.
What to look for in a plan
- Coverage limits high enough for U.S. prices, with no low caps per illness.
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions, mental health care and prescriptions.
- A network near campus.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation, required for J-1 visitors.
- Whether it meets your school’s waiver standards.
For costs, see how much health insurance costs for international students. For help choosing, see how to pick your health insurance and comparing health insurance.
Marketplace plans and tax credits
Students with F-1 or J-1 status can buy marketplace plans. But premium tax credits won’t help most: lawfully present immigrants with income below the poverty level lost access in 2026, and starting in 2027, tax credits are limited to green card holders and a few other groups. See can I get health insurance if I’m not a U.S. citizen.
For more on student coverage, see is health insurance required for college students and health insurance for students.
Comparing plans for a student? See options by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Is health insurance mandatory for F-1 students?
Not under federal law, but most colleges require it.
Can I use insurance from my home country?
Sometimes, if it meets your school’s waiver standards and pays U.S. providers. Many home-country plans don’t.
What happens if I don’t have insurance as a J-1 visitor?
Willfully failing to keep required coverage can lead your program sponsor to end your J-1 program.
Sources
This article is general information, not legal, immigration or insurance advice. Check with your school’s international student office. Last reviewed September 2026.