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Health Insurance for J-1 Scholars & Interns

Image of stethoscope and form

All J-1 exchange visitors are required to have health insurance while in the United States. Unlike many other countries, which bear the expense of health care for its residents, individuals in the U.S. are responsible for these expenses themselves. A single day of hospitalization can cost thousands of dollars. A good insurance policy gives you access to excellent medical facilities and provides protection against the enormous costs of health care.
 

Insurance Requirements

The U.S. Department of State requires that J-1 exchange visitors and their J-2 dependents have sickness and accident insurance for their entire stay in the USA. Imedical cross green iconf the J-1 or J-2 visitor spends time outside of the USA during the period of the program, health insurance must still be in place for the entire duration of the program. Minimum coverage must provide medical benefits ($100,000 per accident or illness), a deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness, expenses associ​​​​​​​ated with the medical evacuation to the home country ($50,000), and repatriation of remains ($25,000). Email Susan Tripp with any questions about the requirements.

Insurance must be in effect by the program start date on the DS-2019 or you will be required to purchase the campus plan. 

 

The Cal Poly International Student and Scholar Health Insurance Plan

Cal Poly has negotiated a reasonable and comprehensive health insurance policy for international scholars. It may be purchased online at calpoly.mycare26.com. This plan includes a medical assistance rider to cover emergency medical evacuation to the home country and repatriation of remains.


If Cal Poly will be providing you with a medical insurance plan, you may purchase just the AES plan to cover emergency medical evacuation to the home country and repatriation of remains. 

All accompanying dependents must also have insurance that meets the U.S. Department of State Requirements. 
 

How much does it cost?

 
Find rates and enrollment and coverage documents at calpoly.mycare26.com.
 

What You Will Pay

  • $146 per month for the J-1 primary insured, and $247 per month for J-2 dependents
  • A $150 deductible per policy year (waived at an in-network doctor’s office)
  • A $10 copay when you go to an in-network doctor’s office 
  • No copay, after deductible, when using an in-network urgent care facility
  • A $10 copay for an in-network urgent care physician office visit
  • A $150 copay after deductible if you go to an in-network emergency room (waived if you are admitted to a hospital)
  • A $15 copay for generic prescription medications, or a $30 copay for brand name medications
  • Out-of-network coinsurance if you do not use an in-network provider
  • Full amount for any services not covered by insurance (see exclusions and limitations in the Member Guide)
 
See full plan provision in the Scholars Insurance Flyer
 

brochure green iconWhat does it cover?

The plan includes coverage for health care, mental health care, emergency family travel, medical evacuation and repatriation, and accidental death and dismemberment.
Information on rates and how to use the plan and details of plan coverage can be found on calpoly.mycare26.com​.

Overview of Cal Poly Scholars Plan Coverage and Cost

 



How do I enroll?

Please follow these enrollment guides:

Are vision and dental services included?

The medical plan does NOT include coverage for vision correction (eyeglasses, contact lenses, or vision exams) or dental services for patients over 19 years of age (unless related to an injury). If you wish, you may purchase your own vision and dental insurance. The eHealth web page offers price and coverage comparisons. Be aware of waiting periods on dental plans. You may also visit calpoly.mycare26.com​ to find dental and vision plans. 

Immunizations

There are no immunization or health tests required to purchase the Cal Poly International Health Insurance plan. 

There are no general immunization requirements to apply for a J-1 or F-1 visa, or entry to the USA. Check with your local U.S. embassy or consular office abroad where you are applying for your visa.


question green iconQuestions and Assistance:

 

Regarding the Cal Poly Insurance Plan coverage and eligibility contact:

 

Regarding claims contact:

 

Other questions: