Studying abroad is a dream for many, but only a few live it. The reason is the high cost associated with higher education abroad. You must arrange costly flight tickets, undergo a rigorous documentation process, face multiple interviews and arrange funds for college fees and accommodation.
Now, after spending so much, when you finally reach your destination and after a few days of living there, a medical emergency or financial crisis arises due to a situation beyond your control. Would you be in a position to handle that financially? Perhaps not.
That is where insurance for students studying abroad steps in.
What is Student Travel Insurance?
Student travel insurance is a specialised form of insurance designed for students who are studying abroad or travelling internationally. It typically includes coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, travel delays and lost or delayed baggage.
The price of student travel insurance can differ depending on factors like the traveller's age, the trip's cost, the duration and the specific coverage chosen.
Why Do You Need Student Travel Insurance?
Consider getting international student travel insurance for the following coverage benefits:
Payment of Bail
Foreign countries have strict laws, and it is difficult for students to understand them all within the first few months of arrival. If they unintentionally break these laws, they might be detained.
So, who will help you obtain bail in such a situation? Your travel insurance for student visa insurer.
However, keep in mind that this coverage applies only to bailable offences. Additionally, the coverage amount will be according to the limit mentioned in the selected plan.
Sponsor Protection
The sponsor is the person who financially supports the student's education abroad. A sponsor can be anyone— a relative, parents or siblings. But have you ever considered what would happen if, in the unfortunate event, the sponsor passes away or becomes disabled?
Your education might be disrupted. The insurer steps in here to compensate you for your outstanding tuition fee.
Compassionate Visit
You never know when a medical crisis will knock at your door. If the condition is a general flu or cold and cough, you could easily manage the situation on your own. But what if the illness is severe and results in prolonged hospitalisation? You will need your parents or someone from your family to take care of you.
The "compensate visit" clause in international student travel insurance aims to address this situation in detail. It arranges for a family member to visit you by providing a flight ticket and accommodation.
However, the expenses will only be covered for one member. You also need to provide various health-related documents proving your current condition.
It is important to mention that the best health insurance for students studying abroad provides holistic coverage for various medical bills that may arise during the duration of your stay.
Lost Baggage
You have just landed in a foreign country, excited and anxious about the new chapter in your life. But then, you discover that the airline has lost your checked-in baggage containing your essentials.
Do not stress too much; the baggage cover provision in student holiday insurance will step in here.
This coverage compensates you for the market value of your lost items. If you lose a single checked-in bag, the insurance company pays out your entire sum insured. However, if more than one checked-in bag is lost, the payout is 50% of the applicable sum insured.
The insurer also reimburses for delayed baggage. In this case, the insurer will pay up to a certain amount for the necessary expenses. This can include toothbrushes, clothing, medication and a few more.
Loss of Passport
You were exploring the nearby market close to your university when suddenly you realised that your wallet and passport had been stolen. In this case, the insurer helps you arrange a duplicate passport and covers the associated charges. However, immediately after informing the insurer, file an FIR at the nearby police station.
Also, if your wallet contains debit or credit cards, take the necessary steps to block the cards immediately to prevent any misuse.
Emergency Accommodation
Suppose you are studying abroad, and a natural disaster strikes one day, rendering your apartment and nearby areas uninhabitable. If you decide to stay in a hotel, the cost might drain your savings.
Your
international travel insurance helps here by compensating for the additional expenses incurred in arranging an alternative place to stay until your original accommodation becomes habitable again.
24/7 Assistance
One key feature of student travel insurance is its 24/7 assistance services. This round-the-clock support network helps students navigate difficult situations and find appropriate solutions. It can also assist in overcoming language barriers and locating healthcare providers.
Conclusion
Whether for higher education or other purposes, our Reliance General
student travel insurance is recommended when travelling abroad. Our policy provides financial coverage for medical emergencies, loss of passport, misplaced baggage, sponsor loss, compassionate visit, bail bond cover and more.
Additionally, it assists with emergency evacuation. In short, travel insurance not only covers multiple scenarios that can disrupt your learning but is also a mandatory requirement in many countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is student travel insurance mandatory for a visa?
Yes, student travel insurance is often mandatory for Indian students studying abroad. However, the requirements may differ depending on the destination country and the type of visa. It is always recommended to check the specific visa requirements of the country where you plan to study.
Why do students need travel insurance?
Indian students need travel insurance for financial protection against medical emergencies, trip cancellations and loss of belongings while studying abroad. It also covers costs for emergency evacuation, repatriation and assistance services, ensuring a safe and worry-free stay in a foreign country.
What precautions should you take when travelling abroad for higher studies?
When travelling abroad for higher studies, ensure your documents are in order, including a valid passport, visa and travel insurance. Keep copies of essential documents. Get vaccinated as required and pack necessary medications. Stay aware of local laws and customs. Have emergency contacts handy, and inform your family of your travel plans and accommodation details.