World Students’ Day Special: Secure Your International Education with Travel Insurance

By Bhaskar Nerurkar 

Pune, 15th October 2025: Students travelling abroad for their higher education already have a lot on their plates to take care of, like student visa, university admission, and fees, education loan, etc. One of the most important aspects is to make sure that they are equipped with proper travel insurance.

Medical emergencies and study interruptions can occur at any time, and it is wise to be prepared in case that day arises. Moreover, today’s ever-altering geopolitical situation may pose some different challenges. So, this World Students’ Day, ensure that you have the best coverage by choosing a comprehensive travel insurance policy while studying abroad.

Inclusions of Student Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance does cover hospitalisation expenses in case of accidents, infection, or illness. It also provides protection against unforeseen events like loss of checked-in baggage, personal liability, study interruption, and more. The inclusions are given in detail below:

Medical Emergencies

The most common crisis people have to deal with while traveling relates to medical needs. Medical expenses in western countries are exorbitantly high. Travel insurance covers hospitalisation, doctor consultations, emergency treatment, surgeries, ambulance charges, and even evacuation if necessary. Some insurers even provide dental treatment coverage.

If you require immediate medical evacuation or need repatriation in case of a severe condition, a comprehensive travel insurance will cover the cost of returning to India. Moreover, some insurers also allow a compassionate visit, which basically implies that they will pay for a round-trip, economy-class air ticket for a family member to be at your bedside in the hospital.

Some insurers also offer pregnancy-related hospitalisation, subject to a specific amount, after the relevant waiting period is over. Moreover, medical expenses for injuries arising out of inter-collegiate sports are also covered.

Study Interruption

If your study is interrupted due to a medical emergency pertaining to you or your immediate family member, you need to make a request for the refund of tuition fees from your institution. If your institution refuses to refund the amount that you are due, a comprehensive travel insurance ensures that you are reimbursed for the remaining fees.

Loss of Checked-In Baggage and Theft of Passport

If your checked-in baggage goes missing, a comprehensive travel insurance policy will compensate you for its market value. Some policies also cover the losses that might arise due to the theft of electronic devices. It is important to note that the insurers reimburse the value of lost items up to the policy limit.

A comprehensive travel insurance policy also provides passport assistance in case of loss or theft of your passport and other essential travel documents. It expedites replacements and navigates local embassy procedures, preventing disruptions to travel plans. The expense needed to issue a duplicate passport is also reimbursed.

Personal Liability Coverage

Accidents can happen anywhere, and if you unintentionally cause damage to someone else’s property or injure a third party, you might get entangled in unnecessary trouble. Personal liability coverage, a part of your travel insurance, ensures protection against legal expenses and compensation claims. It prevents you from facing hefty financial burdens due to unforeseen incidents.

Personal Accident

The insured gets covered in case of death or permanent total disability due to an accident abroad. Accidental death benefits provide financial compensation to the insured’s beneficiaries, offering crucial support in unfortunate circumstances. The compensation varies depending on the nature of the claim, which depends on the level of disability. These features collectively make travel insurance a vital safeguard against unexpected challenges while studying abroad.

Why Choose Comprehensive Travel Insurance Rather Than The One Offered By The University?

Most foreign universities have made travel insurance mandatory for their international students. As a result, many of them offer travel insurance of their own that the students can purchase. However, these are costly and have many exclusions. Hence, it is wiser to opt for a comprehensive student travel insurance from India and get more coverage at a comparatively cost-effective premium.

Conclusion

A comprehensive international travel insurance policy not only takes care of any medical emergencies that might arise in a foreign land, but also provides mental and financial relief to the students so that they can focus on their education instead. Even if cost might feel like a hindrance, the benefits exceed the drawbacks. Investing in coverage is smart as it is essential for a secure and uninterrupted academic journey.

(About the author: Bhaskar Nerurkar is Head – Health Administration Team at Bajaj General Insurance Limited (formerly known as Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company))