health care

Health Care in the United States and SFAI Student Health Insurance

Medical expenses in the U.S. are extremely high, and all SFAI students are required to be covered by a comprehensive health insurance plan. Students are automatically enrolled in the SFAI Student Health Insurance Plan, but if you have comparable insurance, you may waive coverage by completing a waiver form. For additional questions regarding the SFAI Health Insurance plan, email studentaffairs@sfai.edu.

Note: SFAI does not require international students to submit a record of their immunizations or prior medical health history.

Maintaining Physical and Mental Health

Studying in the U.S. will be rewarding in countless ways, but it will also be challenging and stressful at times. You will be in a new environment, with different cultural norms and expectations, and in some cases you will be speaking a second language. 

It is important to be both physically and mentally prepared for the experience. For some students, existing medical conditions may become exacerbated when traveling abroad. SFAI strongly recommends that you carefully evaluate your physical and mental health and consult a physician if you have any concerns.

Some medications may not be available in the U.S., or you may need to have a U.S. physician prescribe them. In some cases, your current medication could be considered illegal in the U.S., so prior to your arrival you should determine the accessibility in the U.S. of all medications you are currently taking. To do so, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

If you are currently receiving treatment for mental health, it is especially critical that you discuss your plans to move to the U.S. with your physician or counselor before you arrive.

SFAI offers students access to on-campus counselors. All sessions are confidential.  Counseling sessions are a supportive place for in-depth dialogue on issues such as relationships, loneliness, motivation, cultural transition and adjustment, abuse, blocks to creativity, etc. For more information see the Counseling Services page, email counselingcenter@sfai.edu, or call 415.749.4587.