Your school probably offers a comprehensive medical insurance policy designed for international students. A comprehensive policy will cover doctor's visits, hospitalisation, medicine, surgery, ambulance care, X-rays and laboratory tests. These policies do not cover dental care or eye examinations and glasses. Sheila Milne of Barton College, Wilson, North Carolina points out the importance of private medical insurance. Although insurance policies vary slightly, some may include travel insurance for visits back home for example.
Medical insurance is just one cost that is often overlooked.
When planning your budget you should also allow for books and supplies, especially for those students studying engineering, art or architecture. Room and board is another on going cost. Although some colleges have on-campus housing it assumes that you will share a room and have your meals at the college cafeteria. Besides the general cost of living remember to include travel costs for a trip back home once a year. Tuition and fees will obviously be the most important factor.