Traveling overseas is an adventurous move. It is also a very big responsibility- particularly when it concerns your health. As an international student in Ghana, it is necessary to seek or find good health insurance. Medical emergencies can be costly and most universities insist on the demonstration of proof of coverage before one can enroll.
The positive news? There are increasing health insurance plans in Ghana and they are tailored towards international students. There are locally-based and internationally known providers with coverage that will suit your needs and budget.
This guide explains the best health insurance in Ghana, their coverage and how to get the best health insurance.
Why Health Insurance Matters in Ghana
Ghana has quality health facilities in the major cities and modern hospitals in Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi. Nevertheless, healthcare expenses incurred in the private structure can be quite high.
The fee at the private clinics to consult is between 200 and 500 GHS (15 and 40 USD).
The admission to a hospital is GHS 3,000-10,000 (USD 250-850) depending on the treatment.
Airlifting out to a foreign country may cost more than USD 20,000.
In the absence of insurance, such costs are borne out of your own pocket. Financial protection, quality care, and peace of mind is achieved by having the right plan.
Top Health Insurance Providers for Students in Ghana
A closer examination of the most dependable insurance plans to international students in Ghana are:
1. Equity Health Insurance Ghana
Why it is popular:
Equity Health Insurance Ghana is among the few local insurers with a student specific health package. This will be attractive especially to individuals who stay in Ghana long-term.
Key Features:
Covers regular checkups, outpatient treatment, and major and minor treatment as well as emergency treatment.
Local and international students packages that are customizable.
Visitor and short term international cover* – Excellent in the event of family visiting.
Actionable Tip: Find out whether your school is in partnership with Equity. In Accra and Kumasi, some universities have schemes where there are reduced rates of students.
2. International Student Insurance (ISI)
Why it is trusted around the world:
IS specializes in insurance to international students all over the world. They cover most of the requirements in the universities as well as visas, making them the preferred option in case you need coverage outside Ghana.
Key Plans:
Student Secure – Full cover including mental health, maternity and sports injury policies.
Student Health Advantage- This can be renewed for up to five years and is the best option to a long term degree program.
Atlas Travel- Plans can be used on short-term trips or exchange programs
Patriot Travel Medical -Large benefit cap with flexible deductible options.
Action Tip Using the ISI online comparison tool enables you to compare what will work best with your needs. Check out “worldwide excluding USA” deals- they are usually cheaper yet they include Ghana.
3. AXA Global Healthcare
Why it is a high end choice:
AXA is a world leader on health insurance of expats and students. Their plans target individuals that travel a lot or require quality cover in foreign lands.
Key Features:
Coverage in Ghana and in the world.
The right of access to a wide international network of hospitals.
24 hours multilingual service and emergency evacuation services.
Best suited to: Travelling students or students with high medical requirements.
Recommended Action: Discuss their student module to lower premiums without losing basic benefits such as hospitalization and evacuation.
4. Allianz Care
Why it can be trusted:
Allianz has a reputation of high quality international health insurance, the plans of which are accepted at universities and embassies around the world.
Key Features:
Coverages include maternity, outpatient care, prescription and hospitalization.
Optional dental and complementary-vision.
Simple process of claims-submitted through an app or via the web
Best suited to: Students who demand international mobility and financial support.
Actionable Tip: Your stay in Ghana is less than one year, enquire about short-term student plans- you will not be paying extra money on coverage that you do not use.
5. American Visitor Insurance (AVI)
Why it would be useful in comparisons:
AVI does not offer any form of insurance but has a directory of U.S. and international plans. This can be very helpful to those Ghanaian students who travel abroad or international students entering the country.
Key Features:
Side-by-side comparison of plans with line-by-line coverage details.
Options which fulfil visa and university requirements.
Contact the service of customer care officials who will clarify the terms of policies.
AVI is a good idea when it comes to choosing the insurer. Their searching algorithm can reduce hours of research.
6. AECC Global
Why it is more than insurance:
ECC Global is an education consultancy firm, but also offers insurance advice as a part of its service. It is a one-stop-shop of students planning to study abroad.
Key Features:
Assists you in choosing OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) to destinations such as Australia, or Ghana-specific plans.
Alerts on visa-compliant coverage.
Negotiates lower rates with major insurance providers on behalf of students.
Actionable Tip: Apply to AECC in case you are applying to several universities in various countries- they can help facilitate the insurance process across the borders.
7. UnitedHealthcare through ISI Student Secure
Why it is a good hybrid choice:
This integrates the ISI student friendly plans with UnitedHealthcare global network.
Key Features:
Coverage ranging at the basic to the elite level, so you can scale accordingly.
Includes telemedicine – a major advantage should you live far outside the urban centers of Ghana.
Which can be renewed once every four years, ideal when undertaking a full-degree.
Actionable Tip, in case you select this plan, get the UnitedHealthcare app it is useful to locate the nearby providers, and file a claim immediately.
How to Choose the Right Plan
Finding the most optimal plan can be based on more than just the price. Take into consideration the following factors:
Coverage Scope
Does it cover standard treatment, emergency, special visits and hospitalization?
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Provider Network
Does the hospital have partners in Accra or Kumasi, or in the study city?
Is there a procedure of out-of-network care?
Visa and School Requirements
A minimum coverage amount is required in some Ghanaian universities
Check the policy is compliant with immigration requirements in the event you are on a student visa.
Renewability and Flexibility
Is it possible to Glossary to extend the policy in the event that your program lasts longer than planned?
Can there be opportunities to suspend coverage when there is a break?
Cost Structure
So what is the premium to deductible tradeoff?
Do they have any secret charges such as money conversion fees?
Pro Tips for International Students in Ghana
Start Early: Start researching 2 months before your program starts.
Ask about Student Discounts: A lot of providers reduce their prices when you show them evidence of enrollment.
Read the Fine Print: Be sure to read the fine print. Sports injuries, mental health and dental care are often optional extras.
Emergency Preparedness: Have the emergency numbers (such as 112 in Ghana) handy and also have the name of the hospitals in your area in case you need them in an emergency.
Suggestion :
It is not only a visa requirement but a health insurance that is useful in protecting your health. In Ghana you have reliable choices that include local players like Equity health insurance Ghana and the multinationals such as AXA and Allianz.
The right program will vary on your studying time frame, money and travel requirements. Compare coverage thoroughly, inquire and select a provider who you feel comfortable with.
Since being away is a great distance, it is reassuring to know that you are covered so that you can concentrate on what is really important-your studies and whatever experiences await.
References:
- Allianz Care. (2025). International health insurance for students. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.allianzcare.com/en/international-health-insurance/student.html
- AXA Global Healthcare. (2025). International student health insurance. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.axaglobalhealthcare.com/students
- Equity Health Insurance Ghana. (2025). Student health insurance package. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.equityhealthinsurance.com.gh
- International Student Insurance (ISI). (2025). Student health and travel plans. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com
- UnitedHealthcare. (2025). Student Secure health plans. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.uhcglobal.com
- American Visitor Insurance. (2025). International student insurance plans. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.americanvisitorinsurance.com
- AECC Global. (2025). Student insurance guidance. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.aeccglobal.com
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2024). Health system profile: Ghana. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.who.int/publications
- Ghana Health Service. (2024). Healthcare cost overview in Ghana. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.ghs.gov.gh
