Landing an offer letter is thrilling—until you realize your school won’t let you register without proof of medical coverage. Across the world, many universities require health insurance for international students to protect you and meet visa or regulatory rules. Miss a waiver deadline or bring a non-compliant policy, and you can be auto-enrolled in a costly plan or blocked from enrollment.
This guide is your one-stop checklist. We map universities that require health insurance for international students by country, outline typical waiver criteria, show real costs, and explain exactly how to verify, buy, or waive coverage—so you can enroll on time and avoid expensive surprises.
What you’ll learn:
- Where and why universities require health insurance for international students
- Country-by-country examples with plan names and proof rules
- Waiver criteria used by top schools (benefit limits, evacuation/repatriation, exclusions)
- Costs, deadlines, and how to claim if you need care
- Smart ways to cover dependents and bridge gaps on arrival
Before you pay, download your university’s insurance waiver form and compare compliant plans side-by-side.
Why so many universities require health insurance for international students
- Visa compliance and public policy
- Countries like Australia (OSHC), the UK (IHS→NHS), Germany (statutory student insurance), and New Zealand require or strongly regulate student coverage.
- Continuity of care
- Schools need to ensure you can access emergency, inpatient, mental health, and prescription care from day one.
- Liability management
- Fieldwork, labs, and placements can carry risk; group plans standardize protections (often including evacuation/repatriation and liability).
Common patterns:
- Automatic enrollment in a school-sponsored plan unless you submit an approved waiver.
- Strict deadlines (often 30–45 days from term start).
- Coverage must be in effect from arrival through the entire term (some require summer coverage too).
At-a-glance: where coverage is mandatory (or effectively required)
| Region/Country | Is Insurance Required? | Who Enforces It | Typical Path |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Yes (university policy; J-1 by federal rule) | Universities/SEVIS (J-1) | School SHIP auto-enroll + waiver if comparable |
| Canada | Yes (university/provincial mix) | Universities + province | UHIP (ON), iMED→MSP (BC), RAMQ (QC) or school plan |
| United Kingdom | Yes via IHS for visas >6 months | UK Home Office (visa) | Pay IHS → NHS access; schools verify payment |
| Australia | Yes (OSHC for subclass 500) | Home Affairs + universities | Buy OSHC with approved provider; show COE |
| New Zealand | Yes (Code of Practice) | Universities | Buy approved policy (e.g., Studentsafe); school verifies |
| Germany | Yes (student statutory or private) | Insurers + universities | TK/AOK student tariff proof at enrollment |
| France | Yes for long stays (sécurité sociale) | National system | Register for social security; may need interim cover |
| Netherlands | Varies by status/work | DUO/insurers/universities | Private student insurance; Aon plans at many schools |
| Sweden | Yes for certain visa types; uni adds coverage | Migration Agency + universities | Kammarkollegiet FAS/Student-IN + national system |
| Switzerland | Yes (mandatory insurance within 3 months) | Cantonal authorities | Buy Swiss LAMal or approved exemption |
| Japan | Yes (NHI for residents) + uni accident cover | Municipal office + universities | Enroll in NHI; Gakkensai + liability required |
| South Korea | Yes (NHI for D-2/D-4) | NHIS + universities | Enroll on residency; university interim insurance |
| China | Yes (for non-scholarship students) | Universities | Buy university-designated plan (e.g., Ping An) |
| Singapore | University-required group plans | Universities | Auto-enrollment in GHS + outpatient/travel riders |
| Hong Kong | University-required | Universities | Mandatory medical/accident plan (or approved waiver) |
Note: Local rules evolve. Always confirm with your school’s international office.
United States: almost all universities require health insurance for international students
Most U.S. universities auto-enroll international students in a Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) unless you submit a waiver proving comparable coverage. J-1 exchange visitors must, by federal law, carry at least medical evacuation and repatriation benefits in addition to medical coverage.
Typical waiver requirements:
- Minimum annual/illness benefit: often “unlimited” or $250,000–$500,000 per condition
- Deductible cap: commonly ≤$500–$1,000 per year
- In-network care in the state of study
- Pre-existing condition coverage with reasonable waiting periods
- Mental health parity (inpatient/outpatient)
- Prescription drug coverage
- Emergency medical evacuation (≥$50,000) and repatriation of remains (≥$25,000)—mandatory for J-1 and often required for F-1 by schools
- No “travel-only” policy; plan must cover the full academic year
Examples of universities that require health insurance for international students:
- University of California (UC SHIP at Berkeley, UCLA, UCSD): mandatory; waiver with ACA-compliant plan only
- Columbia University and NYU: auto-enroll; strict waiver criteria and tight deadlines
- Boston University and Northeastern: SHIP required; E/R benefits required
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign; Purdue; University of Michigan; Georgia Tech; University of Texas at Austin: all require SHIP or approved waiver
- Community colleges (e.g., Seattle Colleges, Houston CC): many now require proof as well
Cost range: USD $1,800–$4,000 per academic year, program and state dependent.
Pro tip: If you use a private plan, confirm it issues a U.S. claims address, has a PPO network near campus, and can complete the school’s waiver form electronically.
Canada: mandatory student plans (UHIP, iMED/MSP, RAMQ, and school policies)
Most Canadian universities require health insurance for international students—either through a provincial scheme or a university plan.
- Ontario (UHIP)
- University of Toronto, York, Waterloo, Western, Carleton, and others enroll international students in UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan). Dependents can be added at extra cost.
- British Columbia (MSP + iMED)
- UBC and SFU require iMED (private) for the initial 3-month waiting period, then students must enroll in BC’s MSP. Schools enforce enrollment and deadlines.
- Quebec (RAMQ + university plan)
- McGill, Concordia: students from countries with RAMQ agreements may qualify; others must buy the university’s international plan.
- Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan
- Provincial plans may cover international students; schools still require proof and often add a supplemental plan (dental/vision).
Cost range: CAD $600–$1,200 per year for basic medical (supplemental packages can add CAD $200–$400).
United Kingdom: IHS payment effectively fulfills the requirement
For student visas longer than 6 months, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the NHS. Universities require proof of IHS payment to issue CAS and complete enrollment.
- Universities (Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, LSE, Imperial, Edinburgh, Manchester)
- Require IHS payment; some recommend additional private cover for dental/vision or personal property but do not require separate medical insurance for degree-length visas.
- Short courses (<6 months)
- On a Standard Visitor visa, you do not pay IHS; universities strongly recommend a private medical/travel policy (some programs may require it).
Cost: IHS is a visa fee (amount subject to change). NHS services may still involve prescription and dental charges.
Australia: OSHC is compulsory for international students
All subclass 500 student visa holders must maintain OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the entire visa duration. Universities require your OSHC policy number before issuing CoE and during enrollment.
- Providers: Allianz Care, Bupa, Medibank, nib, ahm (approved OSHC insurers)
- Universities (ANU, University of Melbourne, UNSW, University of Sydney, Monash)
- Require continuous OSHC; many have preferred providers and offer purchase links; dependents must be added to a family policy.
Cost: Typically AU$500–$800 per year for singles; higher for couples/families.
New Zealand: all universities must verify approved insurance
Under the Education (Pastoral Care) Code, international students must hold approved insurance while in NZ.
- Universities (Auckland, Otago, Victoria University of Wellington, Canterbury, Massey)
- Auto-enroll students into Studentsafe unless you have an approved alternative; proof is reviewed at enrollment.
Cost: NZ$600–$800 per year for standard student medical/travel insurance.
Germany: statutory student insurance (or approved private) is required
German universities require proof of health insurance at matriculation.
- Under 30/first-degree students
- Join statutory health insurance at discounted student rates (e.g., TK, AOK, Barmer).
- Over 30/second degree
- Private student plans are common (e.g., Mawista). Universities like LMU Munich, TUM, RWTH Aachen, Heidelberg verify your insurer’s confirmation letter.
Cost: ~€125–€130 per month for statutory student cover; private plans vary.
France: long-stay students must register for social security
For stays over 3 months, international students generally register with French social security (free). Universities (Sorbonne, PSL, Lyon, Aix-Marseille) require proof of registration and may recommend supplemental “mutuelle” for dental/vision.
- Short-stay or during initial registration gaps
- Schools often recommend temporary private medical coverage until social security activates.
Cost: Core coverage is free; supplemental mutuelle varies.
Netherlands: nuanced rules—universities still require adequate cover
- If you’re studying only (no work), you typically use private international student insurance (e.g., Aon Student Insurance).
- If you work or have a paid internship, Dutch public health insurance (Zvw) may be mandatory.
- Universities (TU Delft, University of Groningen, Leiden, Utrecht) require proof of adequate insurance and publish approved providers.
Cost: €300–€700 per year for private student policies; Zvw premiums apply if required.
Sweden: university-provided coverage + national access for longer stays
- Degree students from outside the EU/EEA with residence permits often gain access to Swedish healthcare; universities also provide Kammarkollegiet insurance (FAS/Student-IN) to cover accidents, liability, and gaps.
- Universities (Lund, Uppsala, KTH, Chalmers) require valid insurance throughout studies; the exact mix depends on your permit and program.
Switzerland: mandatory health insurance within 3 months
- Students must buy Swiss LAMal insurance or apply for an exemption with an equivalent policy.
- Universities (ETH Zurich, EPFL, University of Zurich, Geneva) require proof during registration; cantonal authorities approve exemptions.
Cost: CHF 90–250/month for student-approved policies (after subsidies), depending on canton and franchise.
Japan: NHI plus university accident/liability insurance
- Upon obtaining a residence card, students must enroll in National Health Insurance (NHI) at their municipal office.
- Universities (University of Tokyo, Kyoto, Waseda)
- Also require PAS (Gakkensai) personal accident insurance and often liability insurance for students. Schools verify NHI enrollment and PAS certificate.
Cost: NHI premiums vary by city (commonly modest for students); PAS is inexpensive.
South Korea: NHI is mandatory for D-2/D-4 holders
- International students must enroll in the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) upon alien registration (rules updated in recent years).
- Universities (SNU, Korea University, Yonsei) require proof of NHIS enrollment and may auto-enroll newcomers in a private interim plan until NHIS starts.
Cost: NHIS student premiums are standardized; check current NHIS rates. Interim private policies: KRW 60,000–150,000 per month typical.
China: universities require the official student medical plan
- Most institutions require purchase of the “Comprehensive Medical Insurance for Foreign Students” (often via Ping An) unless your scholarship covers it.
- Universities (Tsinghua, Peking University, Fudan, SJTU) verify payment at registration; CSC scholars are generally covered.
Cost: ~CNY 800 per year (reference; confirm current rate).
Singapore and Hong Kong: university group plans are mandatory
- Singapore (NUS, NTU, SMU)
- Auto-enroll students in Group Hospitalisation & Surgical Insurance (GHS), with add-ons for outpatient/specialist and travel. Required for Student’s Pass holders.
- Hong Kong (HKU, CUHK, HKUST)
- Require medical and personal accident insurance valid in Hong Kong for the full study period; schools offer group policies or strict waiver criteria.
Middle East (selected): national rules + university enforcement
- UAE: Health insurance is mandatory for residency in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Universities (NYU Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University) include/require student medical insurance.
- Saudi Arabia: Health insurance is mandatory for iqama issuance; universities (KAUST, King Saud) provide or require proof.
Waiver criteria: what “comparable coverage” really means
When universities that require health insurance for international students allow waivers, your private policy must usually match these standards:
| Requirement | Typical Threshold |
|---|---|
| Medical benefit per accident/illness | Unlimited or ≥$250,000–$500,000 |
| Deductible | ≤$500–$1,000 per year |
| Coinsurance | Reasonable in-network cost sharing (20% or lower) |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered (with ≤6-month lookback/waiting) |
| Mental health | Inpatient/outpatient covered similar to medical |
| Prescription drugs | Covered with local pharmacy network |
| Maternity | Covered as any other illness (varies by school) |
| Evacuation | ≥$50,000 |
| Repatriation of remains | ≥$25,000 |
| Provider network | Access in state/city of study |
| Policy type | Not travel-only; covers full academic year |
| Claims admin | U.S./local address and 24/7 assistance (if in US) |
Pro tip: J-1 students must meet Department of State minimums for evacuation and repatriation regardless of school policy.
What it costs (rough ranges)
- United States SHIP: $1,800–$4,000 per academic year
- Canada UHIP/iMED/MSP: CAD $600–$1,200 per year (medical only), add CAD $200–$400 for dental/vision packages
- UK IHS: Visa fee; NHS access included (additional charges for prescriptions/dental)
- Australia OSHC: AU$500–$800+ per year (single)
- New Zealand Studentsafe: NZ$600–$800 per year
- Germany statutory student insurance: ~€125–€130/month
- Switzerland LAMal (student-approved): CHF 90–250/month after subsidies
- Japan NHI + PAS: NHI varies by city; PAS is low-cost
- Korea NHIS: Standardized student rate (check current NHIS rates)
- China (Ping An): ~CNY 800/year
- Singapore/Hong Kong university plans: See school site; typically bundled in fees
How to verify your university’s requirement in 5 minutes
- Search smarter
- “[University name] international student insurance waiver PDF”
- “[University name] SHIP waiver criteria”
- “[University name] OSHC/Studentsafe/UHIP/iMED”
- Find the policy page
- International office, student health center, or insurance administrator (Gallagher, Aetna Student Health, UnitedHealthcare StudentResources, Guard.me, AON)
- Grab the documents
- Waiver form, Summary of Benefits, deadlines, and premium table
- Confirm timing
- Start date must cover arrival; many schools require continuous coverage over breaks
- Save proof
- Keep your policy certificate, ID card, and hotline in your phone and email
Buy vs. waive: which route makes sense?
- Use the university plan if:
- You want guaranteed compliance and easy access to campus clinics and local networks
- You need robust mental health benefits and simple claims
- Waive with a private plan if:
- You can match waiver criteria at a lower total cost
- You already have comprehensive coverage (e.g., scholarship plan, employer plan) that meets standards
Checklist for private plans:
- Does the insurer sign the school’s waiver form?
- Is there a local care network near campus?
- Are evacuation/repatriation included (especially for J-1)?
- Are pre-existing conditions and mental health covered?
- Can you refund/cancel if the school rejects the waiver?
Compare university-compliant student health plans and check waiver compatibility before you purchase.
Covering dependents (spouse/children)
- University plans:
- Many allow dependent enrollment during specific windows; premiums can be high (budget early).
- Country systems:
- Canada (MSP/RAMQ), Germany (family coverage rules), Switzerland (each person must be insured), Australia (OSHC family policies) have specific dependent rules.
- Private plans:
- Confirm dependents meet the same waiver criteria; some schools require everyone on the same policy.
Arrival gaps, placements, and travel
- Arrival gap:
- If national coverage starts after enrollment (e.g., BC MSP, France social security), buy a short travel medical policy for the gap (schools often recommend one).
- Fieldwork/placements:
- Verify liability/accident coverage required by your department; some policies (DAAD/Erasmus/Kammarkollegiet) include liability and accident for academic activities.
- Schengen travel:
- For EU trips, your student plan may suffice; otherwise, add a travel policy meeting Schengen minimums (EUR 30,000 medical + repatriation).
How to file a claim (quick steps)
- Get care
- Use campus health first if appropriate; for emergencies, go to the ER.
- Show your ID
- Present your student health ID card and bring your passport/student ID.
- Document
- Save itemized bills, discharge summaries, prescriptions, and receipts.
- Submit
- File through the insurer’s portal within the deadline (often 90–180 days).
- Track
- Keep your claim number; respond quickly to document requests.
Tip: For evacuation or serious incidents, call the 24/7 assistance number on your card before arranging transport when medically feasible.
FAQs: Universities That Require Health Insurance for International Students
Q: Do all universities require health insurance for international students?
A: Many do, and in some countries it’s effectively mandatory via national rules. In the U.S., most universities auto-enroll you in a Student Health Insurance Plan unless you waive with comparable coverage. Australia (OSHC), New Zealand, Germany, Switzerland, and others require proof at enrollment. The UK requires IHS payment for visas over 6 months to access the NHS.Q: What counts as “comparable coverage” for a waiver?
A: Typically, an annual or per-illness limit of at least $250,000–$500,000 (often unlimited), low deductibles, mental health and prescription coverage, pre-existing condition coverage, in-network care near campus, and emergency medical evacuation/repatriation. Travel-only policies are usually not accepted.Q: How much does university health insurance cost?
A: In the U.S., $1,800–$4,000 per year is common. Canada’s UHIP/iMED/MSP mix runs CAD $600–$1,200 for medical. OSHC in Australia is about AU$500–$800 (single). New Zealand runs NZ$600–$800. Germany’s statutory student insurance is ~€125–€130 per month. Switzerland ranges CHF 90–250/month for student policies after subsidies.Q: I’m on a scholarship—am I already insured?
A: Many scholarships include comprehensive medical coverage (e.g., DAAD, Erasmus, Australia Awards) or pay national fees (e.g., IHS for the UK). However, you must still verify that the scholarship plan meets your university’s waiver criteria and covers you from arrival.Q: Do I need evacuation and repatriation coverage?
A: Often yes. U.S. J-1 visa holders must carry it; many universities require it for all international students. It pays to transport you to appropriate care or return remains—costs can be high without it.Q: Can I add my spouse/children to my plan?
A: Usually. University plans often allow dependent enrollment at additional cost. National systems vary by country (e.g., family enrollment rules in Canada, Germany, Switzerland). Ask your international office early and budget for family premiums.Q: My national plan starts later—how do I avoid coverage gaps?
A: Buy a short-term student travel medical policy to cover the arrival gap (e.g., iMED before MSP in BC). Some universities auto-enroll you in a bridge plan; confirm dates and refund rules.Q: What happens if I miss the waiver deadline?
A: You’ll likely remain enrolled in (and billed for) the university plan for that term. Some schools allow late waivers for qualifying life events, but not for price shopping. Put the deadline on your calendar.Verify early, waive smart, enroll on time
Universities that require health insurance for international students do so to protect your health, meet visa rules, and prevent financial shocks. Whether you’ll rely on a school plan, a national system, or a private policy, the key is to verify requirements early, match waiver criteria precisely, and cover any arrival or placement gaps.