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Student Travel Insurance in Canada – What Parents Need to Know Before Sending Students Away

Why Student Travel Insurance Matters More Than Ever

Health emergencies don’t wait for budgets — make sure students are covered whether they’re across the province, across the border, or across the world.

Don’t overlook health care coverage

If your student is heading to university or college — whether abroad, to another province, or coming to Canada as an international student — there’s one thing many families overlook: health care coverage.

Without proper insurance, unexpected medical bills can cost thousands. Whether your child is studying in Boston, Vancouver, Sydney, or here in Toronto, health emergencies don’t wait for budgets.

The High Cost of Skipping Coverage

Case — Emily from Oakville: Two weeks into her Boston semester abroad, she slipped on wet stairs and ended up in the ER. The bill? $6,800 USD, and OHIP didn’t cover a cent.

This isn’t rare. Here’s what Canadian families face:

Source: Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2025

Who Needs Student Travel Insurance

Student travel insurance isn’t just for international students — it’s essential for three major groups:

1. Canadian Students Studying Abroad

Heading to the U.S., U.K., Australia, or anywhere outside Canada? Your provincial plan doesn’t follow you. Even a broken ankle could mean a large bill — e.g., ~$6,800 USD before follow-ups.

2. Canadians Studying Out-of-Province

Moving from Ontario to B.C., Alberta to Quebec, or elsewhere? Provincial health plans rarely fully cover out-of-province emergencies, diagnostics, and prescriptions.

With MIB Travel Insurance for Students:

  • 50% discount on premiums for Canadian students studying in another province
  • Covers ER visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and more

3. International Students in Canada

If you’re coming to Canada, you may not have access to provincial coverage.

  • ER visits can exceed $3,000 CAD
  • Single prescriptions may cost hundreds
  • Diagnostic testing can add up fast

MIB Travel Insurance protects international students from these unexpected expenses.

What MIB Travel Insurance for Students Covers

Emergency & Non-Emergency

Up to $2 million in coverage for covered risks, including hospital services and emergency dental treatment.

Prescriptions & Exams

Covers prescriptions, annual medical examinations, and eye exams.

Flexible Travel Dates

Visit home for up to 21 days without losing coverage. Extend your plan up to 365 days to stay protected between semesters.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for International Students?

The Canadian government doesn’t require international students to have travel health insurance to apply for a study permit. However, many universities and designated learning institutions (DLIs) require proof of private coverage before enrollment. Without insurance, students must pay out-of-pocket for doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital stays, and follow-ups — costs that can overwhelm most budgets.

Why Credit Card Coverage Isn’t Enough

Parents often assume credit cards provide adequate protection, but most cards:

A dedicated student travel insurance policy gives you complete, reliable protection.

Final Thoughts

Your student is about to start an incredible new chapter. They’ll have enough to focus on — classes, new friends, and big experiences. The last thing they should worry about is a $10,000 hospital bill.

With MIB Travel Insurance for Students, you protect their health and your family’s financial security — giving everyone peace of mind.

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