Health and Safety

Students will need to be enrolled in two insurance policies: Japan’s national health insurance and GeoBlue international health insurance.

All international students in Japan are required by law to join Japan’s national health insurance upon arrival. It costs approximately $10 per month. You will receive bills each month, so please make sure to pay for it. Once you receive the Japanese National Health Insurance card in country, you should carry it with you at all times. This card serves as your ID (an equivalent of your SSN in the U.S.) and, if you need to consult a medical doctor, you are expected to present it to receive treatment at any local hospital. You will automatically receive 90% discount of medical treatment. You will pay the amount as requested out of your pocket, then file the GeoBlue claim form to receive reimbursement of what you have paid.

Students studying at the Middlebury School in Japan are automatically enrolled in a study abroad health insurance plan for the duration of the program through GeoBlue.  You will receive an insurance card and proof of insurance letter (required for your visa application) from GeoBlue.  This coverage is mandatory and cannot be waived. Students who are required to enroll in insurance through their home institution will not be eligible for a refund or other recompense for the cost of coverage through the Middlebury Schools Abroad.

As an international student, you should take the same precautions you would in any large city, anywhere in the world.  During orientation, we will address the issue of security in greater depth.  For more information about general conditions in Japan, consult the State Department information page. Middlebury does not permit students to travel, even independently and even while on break, to areas under a State Department warning while enrolled in the program abroad.

Please review the following information carefully and thoroughly regarding health and safety abroad.

Medical Facilities in Tokyo
Psychological Health and Counseling
Drugs and Alcohol
Allergies and Accommodations
Staying Safe in Japan
Global Rescue
Sexual Assault and Harassment