Being an international student and relocating to Canada is an exciting experience. Yet, among planning for your studies and settling into a new country, one important thing to consider is health insurance for students in Canada.
Health insurance is not just a formality; it protects you from high medical costs in case of illness or emergencies.
This is all the information you require regarding the cost and available options for health insurance for students in Canada.
How Much is Health Insurance for Students in Canada?
- Is Health Insurance Mandatory for Students in Canada?
Yes, health insurance is often required for international students in Canada.
Many provinces mandate that students have health insurance to cover potential medical expenses.
Even where it is not mandatory, having coverage is essential since healthcare services in Canada can be expensive for uninsured individuals.
Types of Available Health Insurance for Students in Canada
In Canada, students can choose between private and public health insurance.
While some provinces require overseas students to take out private insurance plans designed clearly for them, others provide public healthcare coverage.
Provincial Coverage – What Is Offered and Where?
- In provinces like British Columbia and Alberta, international students may qualify for public health insurance. Yet, there is usually a waiting period for coverage to start.
- In provinces like Ontario and Quebec, students are not eligible for public health insurance, and private insurance is mandatory.
It is important to check the specific requirements of the province where you will study.
Read: Is Norway covered by European travel insurance?
Cost of Public Health Insurance for Students in Canada
If you are eligible for public health insurance, the costs are generally lower than private insurance.
For example, in British Columbia, the monthly Medical Services Plan (MSP) fee is about CAD 75 per month, totaling CAD 900 per year.
Other provinces, like Alberta, may not charge monthly fees but could have registration costs.
These costs are often more affordable, but public insurance may not cover all services, like dental or vision care.
Cost of Private Health Insurance for Students
If public health insurance is not available, you will need private insurance.
Private plans are tailored for international students and typically cost between CAD 600 and CAD 1,500 per year.
The provider, the perks offered, and the length of coverage all affect the precise cost.
Many universities offer group insurance plans for students, which can sometimes be cheaper than purchasing individual policies.
What Does Student Health Insurance Cover?
Most health insurance plans, whether public or private, include basic medical services such as,
Doctor visits
Hospital stays
Emergency medical care
Prescription medications
Some private plans may also offer extra benefits, like coverage for dental care, physiotherapy, or mental health counseling.
Always check the policy details to understand what is covered and what is not.
Can Students Save on Health Insurance Costs?
Yes, there are ways to save money on health insurance.
- Enrolling in a university group plan can be more cost-effective than buying an individual policy.
- Comparing multiple providers can help you find a plan that offers good coverage at a lower cost.
- Opt for plans that only cover essential services if you are on a tight budget.
Consequences of Not Having Health Insurance in Canada
- Skipping health insurance can be risky.
- Healthcare costs in Canada are high, and a single emergency visit to the hospital could cost thousands of dollars.
- Without insurance, these expenses would need to be paid out of pocket, which could cause significant financial strain.
Bottom Line
Health insurance for students in Canada is a necessary part of your study plans.
Whether you are eligible for public insurance or need a private plan, ensuring you are covered will give you peace of mind and protect you from unexpected medical costs.
