120+ more*Quotes generated for Insurify users within the last 10 days. Last updated on November 3, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users within the last 10 days. Last updated on November 3, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
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4-plus years of insurance writing
Bylines in top personal finance publications
Alani specializes in writing empathetic, actionable articles about insurance and personal finance. Her work has appeared in top publications like U.S. News and Fortune.
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Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 20461358
John is Insurify’s Chief Copy Editor, helping ensure the accuracy and readability of Insurify’s content. He’s a licensed agent specializing in home and car insurance topics.
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25 years teaching risk management and insurance course
Former commercial lines underwriter
David is the managing director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He has been quoted by The New York Times and CNN.
Updated
If you’re a graduate student who drives, it’s important to choose a car insurance policy that balances your needs and budget. Read on to learn more about how car insurance for graduate students works and how to find the right policy for you.
Younger drivers, like many graduate students, typically pay more for car insurance than middle-aged drivers.
Staying on your parents’ policy is one way to save on car insurance, but restrictions may apply.
You can get a discount for having high grades, leaving your vehicle at home while at school, or attending a university affiliated with the insurer.
The cheapest car insurance companies for graduate students vary based on your age, ZIP code, driving history, and many other factors.[1] The table below illustrates a few of the most affordable car insurance companies for students in graduate school.
Insurance Company | Liability Only | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Country Financial | $63 | $122 |
| NJM | $68 | $114 |
| Auto-Owners | $68 | $127 |
| USAA | $68 | $132 |
| State Farm | $71 | $136 |
| Erie | $83 | $146 |
| GEICO | $92 | $167 |
| American Family | $94 | $181 |
| Mile Auto | $98 | $182 |
| Safeco | $98 | $162 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $105 | $225 |
| National General | $113 | $228 |
| Root | $115 | $186 |
| The General | $115 | $285 |
| Direct Auto | $117 | $221 |
| GAINSCO | $118 | $249 |
| Travelers | $122 | $235 |
| Dairyland | $123 | $296 |
| Clearcover | $124 | $229 |
| Elephant | $128 | $219 |
| Farmers | $129 | $247 |
| Mercury | $129 | $231 |
| Bristol West | $132 | $255 |
| Plymouth Rock | $134 | $209 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $135 | $231 |
| Anchor | $145 | $317 |
| Liberty Mutual | $153 | $247 |
| Chubb | $156 | $291 |
| Shelter | $173 | $310 |
| 21st Century | $176 | $332 |
| The Hartford | $194 | $336 |
| State Auto | $199 | $374 |
| CSAA | $258 | $400 |
| Amica | $289 | $495 |
As a graduate student, the best auto insurance company depends on your needs and financial situation. These are a few top picks of the best insurers for people in grad school.
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $79/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $143/mo |
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.0 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.1 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.0 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
GEICO is a good choice for graduate students looking for cheap car insurance. On top of affordable premiums, policyholders get access to a variety of discounts, such as a discount for being a good student. Students who attend certain universities may also be eligible for GEICO’s affiliation discounts. To save even more, consider GEICO’s telematics program that rewards safe driving.
Competitive rates
24/7 customer service
Many student-oriented discounts
Limited agent network
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Rideshare coverage not available
| User Reviews | 4.4 |
|---|
Nationwide's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.2 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.8 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
Drivers appreciate the helpful and knowledgeable customer service but dislike the frequent and significant rate increases. Some also found the claims process to be slow and frustrating.
If you live on campus and don’t drive often, Nationwide’s pay-per-mile auto insurance program, SmartMiles, may help you get cheaper rates. SmartMiles charges a base rate plus a per-mile fee. You could also earn up to 10% off your auto policy for safe driving. Unlike many insurers, this company offers pay-per-mile insurance in most states.
Many savings opportunities
Offers accident forgiveness
Provides vanishing deductibles
Some discounts and programs not available in every state
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Negative customer ratings on Trustpilot
| User Reviews | 4.9 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.1 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $53/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $102/mo |
USAA's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.9 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.9 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.9 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
If you’re an active-duty military member, veteran, reservist, or a family member pursuing higher education, USAA provides affordable insurance and other benefits catered to your unique needs. Members also qualify for savings opportunities like low mileage and storage, along with good student discounts.
Affordable car insurance premiums
Many discount opportunities
Highest score for J.D. Power customer satisfaction in all U.S. regions
Only available to active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, or children of service members or veterans
No 24/7 live customer phone support
Limited coverage options
We choose the best car insurance companies for graduate students by analyzing several factors, including:
Affordability: Affordable car insurance companies offer cheaper premiums than the national average.
Coverage options: Auto insurance companies with the best options provide endorsements for students, such as accident forgiveness, rideshare coverage, and pay-per-mile insurance.
Savings opportunities: The best auto insurers for graduate students offer many student discounts, usage-based insurance, and other money-saving benefits.
Company reputation: Quality companies have good customer ratings from third-party agencies and customer reviews.
Check quotes from 120+ top insurance companies
Car insurance discounts can help you save money on your car insurance policy. These are some common discounts you’ll find as a graduate student:[2]
Save on your auto insurance policy by earning good grades — typically a B average.
Qualify for a distant student discount when you live away from home and don’t bring your vehicle to school.
Save money by bundling your car insurance policy with other insurance products, like a renters or life insurance policy.
Score lower rates on your insurance policy by driving less.
Earn a discount on your policy by maintaining a clean driving record.
Get cheaper rates by taking an approved defensive driving course.
Car insurance is an essential financial tool, but choosing the right coverage can often be overwhelming. Here are a few concepts you’ll want to understand when shopping for an insurance policy.[3]
You’ll have to pay a deductible before your coverage kicks in and pays for damages. The higher your deductible is, the lower your premium cost. Remember that your insurer may deny your claim if your repair costs are lower than your deductible.
You can choose between liability-only coverage, which every U.S. state except New Hampshire requires by law, or a full-coverage policy including liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage.
Full-coverage will cost you more, but it’ll cover all your bases if you get in an accident. If you lease your car, many lenders will require you to have full coverage.
Coverage limit refers to the maximum amount your insurance company will pay to cover bodily and property damages if you’re at fault in an accident. You may have to pay out of pocket for damages if your coverage limits aren’t high enough.
When setting your coverage limits, consider an amount that’s high enough to protect your most valuable assets in case of a lawsuit.
A premium is the rate you pay your insurer in order to receive coverage. You can pay premiums monthly or in a six- or 12-month lump sum.
You can add extra coverages outside your standard car insurance policy to upgrade your coverage. Some common endorsements include accident forgiveness, gap insurance, and rental car reimbursement.
If you’re a high-risk driver, you may need an SR-22 or FR-44 certificate, which is a form that proves you meet the minimum coverage requirements in your state. Securing these forms will require extra steps and may increase your coverage costs.
While policy affordability and customizability are vital when picking a quality insurer, you should also look at other factors, including:
Company history/reviews: Reputable companies provide reliable coverage, high levels of financial strength, excellent customer service, and a solid track record for paying claims. You can use third-party rating agencies or check out reviews from other customers to get a sense of a company’s overall customer experience.
Extra perks: Insurers may include additional perks beyond standard coverage at no extra charge. For example, some insurance companies offer built-in accident forgiveness and roadside assistance in your policy. Many insurance companies also provide a telematics program that rewards safe driving and lowers costs.
Digital experience: A user-friendly mobile app and web experience can increase customer satisfaction by making processes more efficient and convenient. Look for companies that offer online claims filing, bill pay, and policy management and have high ratings on the Google Play Store or the App Store.
See quotes from 120+ top insurance companies in minutes
Car insurance can get expensive, especially if you’re a young adult or a new driver. Luckily, you can save money on your car insurance policy by taking advantage of these cost-saving strategies:
Shop around. One of the best ways to save money on the coverage you need is by comparing car insurance quotes. A quote-comparison tool like Insurify can generate quotes from multiple companies in minutes.
Increase your deductible. While increasing your deductible lowers your premiums, it does raise your out-of-pocket cost after a claim, so be sure you can afford your chosen deductible amount up front.
Raise your credit score. In most states, insurance companies use your insurance-based credit score to determine your rates. Improving your credit may result in cheaper premiums on your policy.
Use pay-as-you-go insurance. Look for an insurer that can offer usage-based or pay-per-mile insurance. While your rate will change from month to month, the savings can add up if you don’t drive much — especially for online grad students or students who also work remotely.
Stay on your parents’ policy. Avoid higher rates by staying on your parents’ policy instead of getting your own policy. Be sure to check the fine print on where you’re allowed to keep your car and other restrictions that may apply.
Keep your grades up. Many insurers offer good student discounts. You can save on insurance by keeping your grades above the required GPA.
Maintain a good driving record. Prevent your rates from increasing by avoiding traffic violations and car accidents.
Here’s some additional car insurance information that can help you find a policy that fits your needs as a grad student.
Yes. Unlike health insurance, a child can stay on their parents’ car insurance policy indefinitely.
“As a young driver, you have the option to remain on your parents’ policy if you don’t hold the vehicle’s title or declare permanent residency outside of the home,” says Howard Goldberg, vice president of customer solutions at Plymouth Rock Assurance.
You must get your own car insurance policy when you move out and change your primary address. If you have a poor driving record or need more coverage than is available on your parents’ policy, consider purchasing your own auto insurance.
You can get student discounts by first looking at a company’s website or speaking to an insurance agent to see if that insurer offers it. You must meet the discount requirements to qualify, which may mean showing proof of enrollment or a transcript of your grades.
It’s possible. Having a bachelor’s or master’s degree may reduce your insurance rates. Research conducted by Consumer Reports in 2021 found that drivers with higher educational attainment saw lower prices than drivers with lower educational backgrounds.
In many cases, rates start to drop significantly at age 25. Keep in mind that other factors also influence the cost of your premiums, like your driving history and location.
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4-plus years of insurance writing
Bylines in top personal finance publications
Alani specializes in writing empathetic, actionable articles about insurance and personal finance. Her work has appeared in top publications like U.S. News and Fortune.
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 20461358
John is Insurify’s Chief Copy Editor, helping ensure the accuracy and readability of Insurify’s content. He’s a licensed agent specializing in home and car insurance topics.
25 years teaching risk management and insurance course
Former commercial lines underwriter
David is the managing director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He has been quoted by The New York Times and CNN.
At Insurify, our goal is to help customers compare insurance products and find the best policy for them. We strive to provide open, honest, and unbiased information about the insurance products and services we review. Our hard-working team of data analysts, insurance experts, insurance agents, editors and writers, has put in thousands of hours of research to create the content found on our site.
We do receive compensation when a sale or referral occurs from many of the insurance providers and marketing partners on our site. That may impact which products we display and where they appear on our site. But it does not influence our meticulously researched editorial content, what we write about, or any reviews or recommendations we may make. We do not guarantee favorable reviews or any coverage at all in exchange for compensation.
