Health Insurance for Students in the US
Most US universities require health insurance and add it to your bill. Here are 2026-27 prices from Arizona State and Purdue. Amounts are in US dollars (USD).
Student Insurance Plan • United States
Why Insurance Matters
Your university sets the insurance rule. Many add the plan to your bill automatically.
Why You Need Health Insurance
- Often you must have it to join the university
- Your university may also check your vaccines
Legal Requirements
- Arizona State: required for all international students
Insurance Approaches for Different Students
University plan
Most students join their university's plan. Arizona State charges it every semester.
At Arizona State, coverage dates cannot be changed and no part of the fee is refunded.
University Rules and Prices
Examples for international students in 2026-27.
University Health Insurance Costs
| University | Annual Cost | Waiver Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | - | No, with one exception for sponsored students |
| Purdue University | USD 1,776.40 for the year 2026-27 | - |
*Costs shown may vary. Always check with your specific university for current rates.
Insurance Waiver Process
Important Waiver Deadline
Check your own university's rules. Each one is different.
Your Options
At Arizona State, international students on a student visa (F-1 or J-1) pay for the university plan every semester, which is half a school year. You cannot skip it.
Getting Care
How to use your plan at Arizona State.
Healthcare System Basics
- Register for an account with the insurance company to get your insurance ID
Step-by-Step Care Guides
A routine visit
- 1Start at the campus health centre
- 2It sends you to doctors outside the university if needed
An emergency
- 1Call 911
- 2You do not need a referral (a note from the health centre) for urgent care (a same-day clinic) or the emergency room
Campus Health Centres
At Arizona State, the campus health and counselling services are your first stop for care.
Available Services
- General medical visits
- X-rays and lab tests
Key Advantages
- Lower prices with the student plan
What It Costs in 2026-27
Prices from two universities.
Money-Saving Tips
More Help
Links and phone numbers that help.
Official Government Resources
Emergency Contacts
Emergency services
911Police, fire and ambulance.
Crisis help
988Call or text for mental health support.
Important: Save the local emergency numbers in your phone before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance required?
At Arizona State, yes. International students must have it to join the university.
Can I skip the university plan and buy my own?
No, not at Arizona State. The only exception is a pre-approved sponsored student (a student whose costs a sponsor pays). Other universities have their own rules, so check yours.
Why is my first semester more expensive?
At Arizona State, new international students pay for four extra weeks of insurance before the semester starts.
What about my husband, wife or children?
The University of Illinois advises insurance for your husband, wife or children. It costs USD 3,330 a year for each person.
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