Advice

How does health insurance work in Canada for international students?

The public healthcare system in Canada (Medicare) is funded by taxes, meaning that all Canadian citizens and permanent residents pay towards the system and have access to it when they need medical aid. As international students do not pay taxes (or pay only partial taxes if working part time), they do not have access to this service and must have private healthcare to access the system.

Healthcare in the United States is very different from systems in other countries as there is no national or universal healthcare system that international students can access.  

Anyone who needs health insurance in the US must choose from individual private care providers and the plans they have on offer. International students will need to research health insurance options before they begin their studies in the US so that they are covered as soon as they arrive. 

What is the Russell Group? 

The Russell Group is an association that represents 24 public research universities in the UK. The group believes that “people and ideas are the key to meeting global challenges. Through world-class research and education, we are helping to create a dynamic economy, stronger communities, and a better future for the UK”.

In Australia, Medicare is the public healthcare system that allows residents of the country to access physical and mental healthcare services. International students in Australia must apply for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

In the UK, the NHS is the system that residents use to access both physical and mental healthcare services. Most healthcare services are free at the point of use, but some procedures may require additional payment. The NHS stands for the National Health Service.

H

ow does the NHS work for international students in the UK? 

This guide explains how international students can access NHS services, what costs are involved and how to register with the NHS as an international student.

With results day fast approaching I’m sure many students – and their parents – will be feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves as they wait to see if their months of hard work have paid off. One thing I remind them all is you don’t need to wait until results day to explore other university options.