Health insurance and medical facilities

By law in Switzerland all students must have major medical health insurance coverage for the duration of the program. Students may retain their health insurance coverage through their family policy or University health insurance. Proof of international coverage is required and must be submitted to the American College Program before departure. The official health insurance statement will then be forwardeded to local authorities responsible for approving the statement of coverage abroad in accordance with the current health insurance laws.

In view of eventual disagreement between your health insurance provider and our local authorities, there exists the alternative of Swiss health insurance for the year. This insurance provides major medical coverage, with a Sfr. 300 deductible, though dental coverage is not included. 

Such Swiss health insurance coverage can easily be arranged by the American College Program administration, however, it is more expensive than standard student health coverage in the USA. Details on cost (approx. $180 per month) and procedure will be given in the pre-departure information packets.

For students who require the assistance of a doctor or dentist, the American College Program administration in Fribourg will gladly help students to schedule appointments. Fribourg has a large hospital and many physicians in private practice speak English.

These facilities have proven adequate over the last 30 years. In the event of serious illness, there are large hospitals in the region offering specialized treatment.