The University of Alaska Fairbanks

General Information

In 1922, the doors to what was then called the Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines opened to students 30 plus years before Alaska became a U.S. state. The college grew quickly and in 1925, the name changed to the University of Alaska. This is the original campus in the school system for the University of Alaska. 

For such a short time period since this university was established, there is an abundance of historical events at this campus and in Fairbanks as you may have already discovered in your research. 

University of Alaska Fairbanks Academic and Research Opportunities 

At UAF, international exchange visitors have the opportunity to research at multiple centers, institutes, and stations, which consist of the following:

• Agricultural and Forestry
• Geophysical Institute
• Institute of Marine Science
• Institute of Northern Engineering.
• International Arctic Research Center

UAF has nine academic schools and colleges, including:

• College of Engineering and Mines (CEM)
• College of Liberal Arts (CLA)
• College of Natural Science and Mathematics (CNSM)
• College of Rural and Community Development (CRCD)
• College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences (CFOS)

Health Risks for University of Alaska Fairbanks International Students 

Fairbanks is the second-largest city in Alaska and is as close to a proper city compared to the lower 48 states of the U.S. as you can get. Thanks to the highway built through Fairbanks during World War II, it's well connected to various parts of the state.

No matter where a city is though, cities bring have both advantages and risks. 

Theft and robberies are commonplace in Alaska, and in Fairbanks, the rate is higher than the state and national averages. The uncommonly high crime rate comes in both terms of property and violent crimes.

Alaska has its share of natural threats from wildlife. Bear and moose attacks can be deadly and have been known to occur when these animals wander into an inhabited area. These wild animals come into the city to rummage for food in backyards and garbage bins, often charging at unsuspecting humans. 

Icy roads cause an increase of car accidents. The cold weather also brings the risks of frostbite, hypothermia, or even death.

Being vigilant and cautious can only help so much, though. It’s best to be prepared for a variety of situations, and that includes having adequate exchange visitor health insurance to protect yourself in case of sudden illnesses or injuries.

Cover Your Risks with Health Insurance for University of Alaska Fairbanks 

Choosing the right J visa exchange visitor health insurance plan for UAF ensures that you’re protected in case of health issues, this protection extends to your bank account. The cost of healthcare in the U.S. is nothing to scoff at, a trip to the emergency room for even a minor injury can go over $1,000 before you’ve even had a chance to blink.  

International exchange visitors on a J visa have certain coverage requirements they must meet. Health insurance for J1 and J2 visa holders must meet the following requirements:

• $100,000 per accident and illness
• $25,000 for repatriation of remains
• $50,000 for medical evacuation
• Deductible that doesn’t exceed $500 per accident or illness

See the complete Standard J Visa Insurance Requirements here.

You know you have to meet the minimum requirements, but there can also be additional coverage that is important to yourself and your family, like maternity coverage. The insurance plans below meet the standard J visa requirements, and each plan has different benefits that might important to some people.

J Visa Exchange Visitor Health Insurance for University of Alaska Fairbanks - FAQs 

Do international exchange visitors need health insurance before joining University of Alaska Fairbanks?

Yes, an exchange visitor health insurance coverage is necessary to join University of Alaska Fairbanks. 

J visa exchange scholars, professors, and dependents run the risk of losing their visa if they do not have proper health coverage.

What’s the need for University of Alaska Fairbanks health insurance for exchange visitors on a J visa?

The cost of medical care in the United States is absurdly high, even with health insurance. A visit to the emergency room can easily consume your funds. 

Having adequate health insurance ensures that the insurance plan covers the expenses instead of you paying the total cost necessary for treatment. Exchange visitor health insurance for UAF protects you from bankruptcy by ensuring you have a safety net in place. This means you only have to pay for only a fraction of the total service cost while your insurance plan takes care of the rest.

How to find the best student health insurance for University of Alaska Fairbanks?

Various factors influence the choice of a health insurance plan. These factors can be personal for many, but generally include, specific benefits, deductible, co-insurance, co-pay, and premium. The cost you would be paying would first be the premium; then when you use the coverage, you would either pay the co-insurance or co-pay depending on the specific benefit included in a given insurance plan.

Price is of course important, but you also want to make sure that the insurance plan you buy has the necessary coverage required as well as any additional coverage that is important to you. Compare the plans available below to find the perfect fit for your situation.

If you require professional support, feel free to reach out to our professional insurance counselors.

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