Find Health Insurance on OPT — Starting at $0/month
Your university plan ends after graduation. Compare Marketplace, short-term, and catastrophic plans to find affordable coverage that fits your OPT situation.
Health Insurance Options for OPT Students
Compare coverage types to find the right fit for your budget and needs.
Marketplace / ACA
Comprehensive plans through Healthcare.gov. Many OPT students qualify for subsidies, bringing costs to $0/month. Open enrollment Nov–Jan, or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
- Pre-existing conditions covered
- Preventive care included
- Subsidies may apply
Short-Term Plans
Temporary coverage for gaps between plans. Fast enrollment, lower premiums, but limited benefits. Good for bridging the gap while waiting for employer coverage.
- Enroll anytime
- Lower monthly cost
- Fast approval
Catastrophic Plans
Low-premium, high-deductible plans for those under 30. Covers worst-case scenarios like hospitalizations. Requires a hardship exemption if over 30.
- Lowest premiums
- 3 free primary care visits
- Emergency coverage
University SHIP Extension
Some universities allow you to extend your Student Health Insurance Plan after graduation. Coverage is often comprehensive but may be more expensive than marketplace plans.
- Familiar coverage
- No enrollment gaps
- Campus health access
Don't Get Caught Without Coverage
The transition from university health insurance to OPT coverage is one of the most common gaps international students face. A single uninsured ER visit can cost you thousands. Plan your transition early.
Find Coverage NowYour Coverage Journey
Before Graduation
University SHIP active
Your student plan covers you
Grace Period
SHIP may extend 30-60 days
Check your university policy
OPT Starts
You need new coverage
Enroll in a plan ASAP
Employer Coverage
Employer plan kicks in
Usually after 60-90 day waiting period
1 in 4 Young Adults Are Uninsured After Graduation
Medical debt is the #1 cause of bankruptcy in the U.S. A single hospital stay averages $13,000. International students on OPT are especially vulnerable during the coverage gap between university insurance and employer plans.
$0/mo
Marketplace plans with subsidies
$13K
Average hospital stay cost
60 Days
Special enrollment period window
Free
Our insurance finder tool
"I graduated and assumed I'd be covered by my employer right away. Turns out there's a 90-day waiting period. TrackMyOPT helped me find a Marketplace plan for $0/month with subsidies. Literally saved me from a coverage gap."
Ananya Krishnan
OPT, Business Analyst • Indiana University
Health Insurance Questions
Common questions about health coverage on OPT
Still have questions? Contact our support team
Don't Risk Being Uninsured
Find affordable health insurance plans tailored to your OPT situation. Compare options and enroll today.