Contact Us: 1 (408) 816-0970 help@goldengate.edu
Apply Now
Contact Us: 1 (408) 816-0970 help@goldengate.edu
Apply Now

Health Insurance Policy

Golden Gate College, Inc. is committed to providing comprehensive health insurance coverage that meets the needs of our F-1 and J-1 visa holders while ensuring compliance with U.S. Department of State and institutional requirements. This policy outlines the health insurance coverage, terms, and procedures for all eligible participants.

This policy ensures that international students (F-1) and exchange visitors (J-1) have access to affordable, high-quality medical care during their time at Golden Gate College. The policy also aims to meet federal visa requirements and protect the well-being of all participants.

I. Key Differences Between J-1 and F-1 Health Insurance Requirements

FeatureJ-1 VisaF-1 Visa
Insurance RequirementMandatory per U.S. Department of State regulations.Not required by law but is required by the college.
Minimum CoverageSet by the U.S. Department of State.Required
Compliance EnforcementManaged by the J-1 program sponsor (e.g., university).Managed by the institution.

Coverage Recommendations for Both J-1 and F-1 Visa Holders

  1. Medical Benefits: Minimum of $100,000 per illness or injury (or higher, depending on school policies).
  2. Emergency Medical Evacuation: At least $50,000 (mandatory for J-1 and recommended for F-1).
  3. Repatriation of Remains: At least $25,000 (mandatory for J-1 and recommended for F-1).
  4. Deductible: Not exceeding $500 per illness or injury.
  5. Mental Health Coverage: Include both inpatient and outpatient services.
  6. Prescription Drug Coverage: Full or partial reimbursement for essential medications.

II. Recommended Health Insurance Providers

1. Providers Offering Plans for Both J-1 and F-1 Visa Holders

A. ISO Health Insurance

  • Designed for international students and exchange visitors.
  • Affordable plans tailored for J-1 and F-1 visa holders.
  • Meets U.S. Department of State and school-specific requirements.

Website: https://www.isoa.org

B. Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI)

  • Comprehensive plans for both J-1 and F-1 students.
  • Includes emergency evacuation and repatriation.
  • Flexible term lengths to fit semester or program durations.

Website: https://www.culturalinsurance.com

C. IMG Global (International Medical Group)

  • Provides plans for J-1 and F-1 visa holders.
  • Offers the Student Health Advantage Plan for longer academic stays.
  • Covers emergency evacuation, repatriation, and mental health.

Website: https://www.imglobal.com

D. Seven Corners

  • Offers the Student Express Plan, which caters to both visa types.
  • Covers emergency care, repatriation, and preventive services.
  • Comprehensive provider network in the U.S.

Website: https://www.sevencorners.com

E. Tokio Marine HCC – StudentSecure

  • Ideal for F-1 and J-1 visa holders.
  • Includes mental health services, evacuation, and repatriation.
  • Multiple tiers (Budget, Select, Elite) to fit different budgets.

Website: https://www.hccmis.com

2. Providers Offering Specialized Plans

GeoBlue

  • Focuses on high-quality coverage with access to the Blue Cross Blue Shield network.
  • Offers plans for F-1 and J-1 visa holders, including mental health and preventive care.
  • Customizable plans based on program duration.

Website: https://www.geobluestudents.com

Patriot Exchange Program (IMG)

  • Tailored for J-1 exchange visitors but also suitable for F-1 students.
  • Meets Department of State requirements and offers flexible terms.
  • Includes telehealth services.

Website: https://www.imglobal.com/patriot-exchange

III. How to Choose the Right Plan

  1. For J-1 Visa Holders:
    • Focus on compliance with the U.S. Department of State’s requirements.
    • Ensure coverage for repatriation and medical evacuation.
  2. For F-1 Visa Holders:
    • Confirm specific requirements with the school.
    • Look for broader coverage options since requirements vary.
  3. Common Needs:
    • Access to a wide provider network near the program location.
    • Affordable deductibles and co-pays.
    • Mental health and prescription drug coverage.
  4. Preventive Care:
    • Annual wellness check-ups and vaccinations.
  5. Emergency Services:
    • Emergency room visits and ambulance transportation.
  6. Specialized Care:
    • Coverage for specialists, including cardiologists, orthopedists, and other medical professionals.
  7. Dental and Vision (Optional):
    • Optional coverage for routine dental and vision care at an additional premium.

IV. Coverage Details

  1. Inpatient and Outpatient Services:
    • Doctor consultations, hospital stays, and surgeries.
    • Diagnostic tests and imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRIs).
  2. Prescription Drug Coverage:
    • Reimbursement for essential medications.
  3. Mental Health Services:
    • Coverage for outpatient counseling and therapy.
    • Inpatient care for mental health emergencies.
  4. Preventive Care:
    • Annual wellness check-ups and vaccinations.
  5. Emergency Services:
    • Emergency room visits and ambulance transportation.
  6. Specialized Care:
    • Coverage for specialists, including cardiologists, orthopedists, and other medical professionals.
  7. Dental and Vision (Optional):
    • Optional coverage for routine dental and vision care at an additional premium.

V. Cost and Premiums

  • Premiums are charged on a semester (quarterly) or annual basis and included in the program fees unless otherwise specified.
  • Payment plans are available upon request.

VI. Enrollment Process

  1. Automatic Enrollment:
    • All F-1 and J-1 participants are automatically enrolled in the health insurance plan upon program acceptance.
    • Dependents are required to enroll separately.
  2. Opt-Out Policy:
    • Participants with equivalent coverage may apply for a waiver by submitting proof of insurance before the semester deadline.
    • Equivalent coverage must meet or exceed the minimum requirements outlined in this policy.

VII. Claims and Reimbursement

  1. Filing Claims:
    • Participants can file claims directly through the insurance provider’s online portal or by submitting required documents via mail.
    • Keep all medical bills, receipts, and documentation for the claims process.
  2. Customer Support:
    • A 24/7 customer service helpline is available for assistance with claims, coverage questions, or emergencies.

VIII. Emergency Assistance

  • For medical emergencies, participants should contact 911 or visit the nearest hospital.
  • For non-emergency medical issues, participants are encouraged to consult with in-network providers.

IX. Provider Network

  • The health insurance plan includes access to a wide network of providers across the U.S.
  • Participants can use the insurance portal to locate in-network doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies.

X. Compliance

Failure to maintain valid health insurance will result in:

  • Termination of J-1 or F-1 visa status.
  • Suspension from the academic or exchange program until proof of coverage is provided.

XI. Contact Information

For questions regarding the health insurance policy, coverage details, or claims, please contact:

Golden Gate College Health Insurance Office
Email: help@goldengate.edu
Phone: +1 (408) 816-0970
24/7 Emergency Assistance: Insurance Provider Hotline

XII. Appeals and Grievances

If you experience issues with your coverage or claims, you may file an appeal with the insurance provider or contact the Golden Gate College Insurance Office for assistance.

XIII. Additional Resources

  1. U.S. Department of State – J-1 Visa Insurance Requirements
  2. NAFSA – Health Insurance for International Students
  3. GeoBlue Student Insurance Guide

This policy ensures that all international participants have access to the medical care they need while maintaining compliance with federal and institutional requirements. If you have additional questions or need further assistance, please reach out to our team.