Mat-Su College

General Information

The Matanuska-Susitna College, or the Mat-Su College, is located in Palmer, Alaska. It is a public community and technical college that is part of the University of Alaska Anchorage system.

Mat-Su College began in 1958 as Palmer Community College, later changing its name to Mat-Su College in 1963.

Mat-Su College Academic and Research Opportunities 

Mat-Su college provides educational opportunities chiefly to the Mat-Su valley, as well as incoming students from other states or abroad.

The College offers students a range of two-year associate degree programs. These courses offered lead to associate degrees in the arts or applied sciences, including but not limited to:

• Accounting
• Human Services
• Information Technology Specialist
• Paramedical Technology
• Sustainable Energy

The school also provides vocational classes, as well as community enrichment programs.

Health Risks for Mat-Su College International Students

The city of Palmer is a quiet place surrounded by nature and scenic hiking spots. It is in Southcentral Alaska, just north of Anchorage.

While this college campus’s proximity to nature would lead many to believe that it is a peaceful haven, Palmer is no stranger to crime. The city is one of the more dangerous places in the U.S., so international students or exchange visitors should be cautious. Being the victim of a petty theft or a purse-snatching is always a possibility no matter where you are.

Vehicle theft is sadly more commonplace than you would hope. It's best to take extra precautions against it.

Alaska has its share of natural threats, too. Some may think that bears and moose look cute, but their attacks can be deadly. The wild animals tend to wander into cities and rummage for food, often charging at unsuspecting humans. Learn what you need to do in case you find yourself in a situation like this.

Even in warmer seasons it’s cool in Alaska, but come winter, the icy roads can lead to an increase in car accidents. The below-freezing temperatures can also lead to frostbite, hypothermia, or freezing to death. Prepare yourself for the temperature change if you’re moving from a warmer climate.

There is always the possibility of getting sick or suffering from an injury, too. Having the right insurance plan can protect you and your finances.

Cover Your Risks with Health Insurance for Mat-Su College

Mat-Su College falls under the University of Alaska Anchorage system, which requires all students and exchange visitors to have adequate health coverage.

International exchange visitors and their dependents on a J visa have insurance requirements that must be met to be compliant with their visa.

International Student Health Insurance for Mat-Su College - FAQs 

Do international exchange visitors need health insurance before joining Mat-Su College?

Yes, an insurance plan is necessary to join Mat-Su College.

International exchange visitors without proper health coverage run the risk of losing their visa.

What’s the need for Mat-Su College health insurance for international exchange visitors?

The cost of medical care in the United States is absurdly high. A visit to the emergency room can easily cost thousands of dollars for something minor.

Insurance protects you from bankruptcy by making sure you have a safety net in place. The right insurance plan has a limit to the out of pocket maximum you would pay, which ensures that you do not have to pay more than a set limit for covered expenses. This decreases costs significantly, giving you the freedom to pay only a fraction of the total service cost for necessary treatment.

How to find the best student health insurance for Mat-Su College?

Various factors can influence your decision when choosing an insurance plan. Some factors include specific coverages, PPO network, monthly premium, and requirements from your school or the U.S. Department of State. Start by comparing the available plans below with each other to find the perfect one for yourself.

The type of a plan preferred might vary from student to exchange visitor, some people may be concerned about possible health concerns and choose health insurance with more coverage than someone that thinks they’re young and healthy, therefore invincible. If you’re sick or injured though, being able to utilize the necessary benefits for treatment is very important and you’ll truly appreciate that you selected a plan with higher coverage.

In case you require professional support during your review of coverage, feel free to reach out to our experts for guidance – we’re just a phone call away.