International student enrollment in U.S. colleges and universities reached record highs last year. More than 1.1 million international students enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities for the 2023-2024 school year, reflecting an increase of 7% over the previous year.
As colleges and universities face policy changes in 2025, it remains unclear how these will ultimately impact international student populations and enrollment. But, we’ve been here before. Our higher education system is no stranger to the impact of an uncertain climate on international student attendance. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, there was a 72% decrease in new international student enrollment compared to 2019.
As your college or university strategizes about international student engagement and retention in 2025, consider how your student insurance offering is positioned. International student health insurance is a valuable benefit that provides peace of mind that prospective students will be covered with U.S. health care services during their stay. A holistic health plan that addresses student mental health communicates an even stronger commitment to international students’ safety and well-being and can give your institution a competitive edge.
Mental health services to look for in an international student insurance plan
International students contend with more loneliness and discrimination than domestic students in general, and they report significantly higher levels of stress, depression, and anxiety than their domestic student counterparts. The uncertainty of our environment only fuels these anxieties further, especially as questions about student visas and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs linger.
An attractive student insurance program will address students’ mental health needs, support their transition into and time spent on campus, and provide on-campus resources that promote their overall well-being. Mental health programs should be available to add on to existing student health policies and should complement and coordinate with resources and support already available on-campus
Here are two key services that Venbrook Student Insurance provides, offering students a sense of comfort and security about enrolling at your university or college:
1. Peer Support program
The occurrence of social isolation in international students is approximately 42% higher than it is for domestic students, and programs like Peer Support can help empower students to find a community. These type of platforms help enable students to connect with others with similar interests and backgrounds. If a student is from China, speaks Mandarin, and plays soccer, for example, they can use the platform to meet another student with the same qualities. Student peers participating in the program assume a mentorship role and are provided with training, background checks, and support
resources to better guide their fellow students. For students hesitant to speak with a peer directly, the platform also offers podcasts of students sharing their stories and how they’ve overcome similar challenges.
2. Behavioral health services
One-third of students do not know where to go for help if they have a mental health issue. Organizations like OPYN, included in Venbrook’s Student Insurance’s program coverage, provide participants with 24/7 access to psychology and counseling services focused specifically on the nuanced challenges that students are facing. The virtual therapy is managed by clinicians, which means a qualified mental health professional answers the phone when a student calls. Medicare mental telehealth services that began during the pandemic were sunset at the end of March 2025, making this service more critical and valuable for the students who need it.
Venbrook stands in partnership with higher education institutions
Venbrook Student Insurance recognizes the challenges faced by colleges and universities across the country and is dedicated to supporting our partners. By offering specialized programming like the peer support platform and OPYN behavioral telehealth services as a part of our student health insurance plans, we’re committed to helping you meet all the health needs of your student population.
